You know your favorite bra—the one you wear over and over again for much longer than you’d like to admit? When it does come time to wash that prized possession, you want to do it right. That’s why we’ve rounded up this helpful list of tips and tricks for washing your bras. We’re mapping out the best way to clean them and even letting you in on the secret of how often you should do it. Because us girls have got to stick together, right?
You CAN machine-wash them
Most laundry fanatics—yes, they exist—stand by the no machine wash rule. But who has time to hand-wash bras, especially when you’re in college? As long as you wash on the gentle or delicates cycle, use detergent intended for delicates (no bleach whatsoever!) and only mix like items into your load, you shouldn’t have a problem. Using a lingerie bag can protect your garments from getting beaten up during the wash. And make sure to clasp your bra before washing so it doesn’t get tangled or worse, rip a hole in that pretty lace.
You CAN’T put them in the dryer
One major don’t? No matter how desperate, do not resort to putting your bras in the dryer. Always hang—in the middle, never by the straps—or lay them flat to dry.
But you should still hand-wash when possible
It takes extra time, but it’s worth it if you want to extend your bra’s lifetime. Cool to lukewarm water is the key to keeping that color from bleeding. And hand-washing liquid, gentle soap flakes or neutral shampoo works well in this instance.
Don’t wash after every wear
Doing so will only make your bras stretch and lose their shape faster. You’re the best judge of when it’s time. Now, if you’ve just taken part in an extensive (and sweaty!) workout, you may want to bend the rules and wash immediately. But there’s no law to live by but your own with this one.