Quick Answer

Always hand wash your lace bralette in cool water with a gentle detergent, then lay it flat to dry. Avoid wringing, twisting, or machine washing to preserve the delicate fabric and elastic. This method keeps the lace intact and the fit true to size.

Why Hand Washing Matters for Lace

Lace is a delicate fabric that can easily snag, stretch, or lose its shape in a washing machine. Even on a gentle cycle, the agitation can cause the lace to pill or the elastic to weaken. Hand washing gives you control over the process and prevents unnecessary wear.

The elastic in bralettes is especially vulnerable to heat and rough handling. Hot water and machine drying can break down the elastic fibers, making the bralette lose its support and fit. By hand washing and air drying, you extend the life of the garment and maintain its original shape.

Step-by-Step Washing Guide

  1. Fill a Basin with Cool Water: Use a clean basin or sink and fill it with cool water. Add a small amount of gentle detergent designed for delicates. Swirl to mix without creating too many suds. Checkpoint: Water should be cool, not cold or warm, to protect elastic.
  2. Soak and Gently Swish: Submerge the bralette and let it soak for 5-10 minutes. Gently swish the water through the fabric. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing the lace, as this can cause fraying. Common mistake: Rubbing the lace can damage the delicate threads.
  3. Rinse in Clean Water: Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with cool, clean water. Rinse the bralette by gently pressing the water through the fabric until no suds remain. Repeat if necessary. Checkpoint: Ensure all detergent is removed to prevent skin irritation.
  4. Press Out Excess Water: Lift the bralette out of the water and gently press it between your palms to remove excess water. Never wring or twist the fabric, as this can stretch the lace and elastic. Common mistake: Wringing causes permanent stretching and misshaping.
  5. Dry Flat on a Towel: Lay the bralette flat on a clean, dry towel. Roll the towel with the bralette inside to absorb more moisture, then unroll and reshape the bralette. Let it air dry completely away from direct sunlight. Checkpoint: Never use a dryer; heat breaks down elastic fibers.

Products to Care For

  • Shanell Bralette: The Shanell Bralette is available in sizes XL/2XL (Size 14-18, bust 40-44 inches) and 2XL/3XL (Size 20-24, bust 46-51 inches), with cup fits ranging from 34DD to 44DD. Larger sizes have more fabric and elastic, so proper hand washing and flat drying are even more important to maintain support and prevent stretching.
  • Satin & Lace Kind of Night: The Satin & Lace Kind of Night is a sleep and lounge style from The Bralette Co., offered in Champagne and available in size S, with a size chart for S, M, and L in US sizing. Satin and lace are both delicate materials; this style benefits from the same gentle hand-wash routine to keep the satin smooth and the lace from snagging.

After washing, store your lace bralette flat or hanging by the center gore to maintain its shape. With this gentle routine, your delicate pieces will stay beautiful and supportive for many wears to come.