Lingerie can be costly, so doing everything to make it last is a good idea. Here are the top three tips for hand washing your lingerie to keep it looking like new for years.
There is no easy answer on how to wash lingerie, although there are a few good practices. Hand washing is always favored over machine washing, and here are some things to keep in mind:
- Use gentle, alcohol-free detergent and non-chlorine bleach. If possible, use oxygen bleach—it’s color-safe and easier on the environment.
- Check your hands before you hand wash anything. File away rough edges on your fingernails and remove rings that might snag lingerie or hosiery. (Wear a pair of rubber gloves if you’re washing a lot at once.)
- For best results, hang lingerie to dry. Avoid putting it in direct sunlight as it can fade colors.
For specific types of lingerie:
Bras
For best results, hand wash bras in cool water and mild detergent in a sink. (Wash any removable cups separately.) To do this:
- Fill sink with water and soap.
- Let the garments soak for 5–10 minutes. Squeeze soap through.
- Tackle tough perspiration stains by lightly rubbing the fabric with mild soap and water first, then let soak for 15-20 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly in cold water until the water runs clear.
If using a washing machine, there are a few measures you can take to prevent your bra from taking a beating:
- Put your bra inside a mesh laundry bag designed for lingerie (the holes are smaller).
- Hook the bra closed so that the clasps don’t accidentally catch on other items.
- Use a delicate setting for both wash and spin cycle.
- Always wash with like colors—whites with whites, darks with darks.
Lingerie is too delicate for dryer heat. Lay the bra flat on a towel or hang to dry.
- When drying flat, position the bra with the cups facing up.
- Reshape while drying for best results.
Panties
Cotton panties can be machine washed with like colors. More delicate fabrics that contain lace should be hand washed with mild soap in cool or warm water.
- Lightly rub the fabric together and rinse until water runs clear.
- Hang to dry or tumble dry on low heat.
Hosiery
Nylon and silk tights or stockings are also best washed by hand. Always wash like colors together.
- Fill a sink with liquid laundry detergent or baby shampoo and cool water.
- Let soak for at least 10 minutes, then gently squeeze the soapy water through.
- Empty the sink and run cool water over each pair until water runs clear.
For machine-washing, the instructions are similar to washing a bra:
- Use a mesh laundry bag and a delicate setting.
- Wash alone with a small amount of detergent.
- Return to original shape and hang to dry.
Washing lingerie can be time consuming, but if you know how to wash them correctly, you can preserve it for years.
