Why Proper Lingerie Care Matters

Your lingerie is an investment in comfort and confidence. Unlike everyday clothing, intimate wear is crafted from delicate materials designed to feel luxurious against your skin. Lace, silk, satin, and fine mesh require special attention to maintain their beauty and integrity.

Worn close to the body, lingerie is exposed to natural oils, perspiration, and daily wear. Without proper care, these elements can break down delicate fibers, causing:

• Loss of elasticity and support in bras
• Fading and discoloration of beautiful fabrics
• Stretching and misshaping of cups and bands
• Damage to delicate lace and embroidery
• Shortened lifespan of your favorite pieces

Understanding Your Lingerie Fabrics

Different fabrics require different care approaches. Here's your guide to the most common lingerie materials:

How to Hand Wash Lingerie

Hand washing is the gold standard for lingerie care, especially for bras, delicate sets, and anything with underwire, padding, or intricate details. Follow these steps for perfect results:

Machine Washing Tips

While hand washing is always preferred, some lingerie can be machine washed if done carefully. Always check the care label first. Here's how to minimize damage:

• Use a mesh lingerie bag — This protects delicate fabrics from friction and prevents straps from tangling
• Fasten all hooks and clasps — Prevents snagging on other items and the drum
• Select the delicate/gentle cycle — Low agitation and shorter spin times
• Use cold water only — Hot water breaks down elastic and can cause shrinkage
• Use gentle detergent — Avoid bleach, fabric softeners, and harsh chemicals
• Wash with similar items — Keep delicates together, away from zippers and heavy fabrics

Drying Your Lingerie

How you dry your lingerie is just as important as how you wash it. Heat is the enemy of delicate fabrics and elastic!

How Often to Wash Lingerie

Finding the right washing frequency helps balance hygiene with fabric preservation:

How to Store Lingerie

Proper storage keeps your lingerie in perfect condition between wears:

Bra Storage

• Store bras flat — Stack with cups facing up, one inside the other
• Never fold cups in half — This can permanently warp molded cups
• Fasten hooks — Prevents snagging on other items
• Dedicated drawer space — Keep separate from other clothing

Panties & Delicates

• Fold neatly — Simple fold or roll to save space
• Organize by type — Everyday, special occasion, etc.
• Use drawer dividers — Keeps items tidy and easy to find
• Avoid overcrowding — Delicates need room to breathe

Special Pieces

• Store in breathable bags — Fabric bags, not plastic
• Use acid-free tissue paper — For long-term storage of silk pieces
• Keep away from light — Prevents fading of colors
• Add lavender sachets — Natural freshness without chemicals

Understanding Care Labels

Decode the symbols on your lingerie care labels:

Traveling With Lingerie

Keep your delicates protected on the go:

• Use a lingerie travel case — Protects bras from crushing in your suitcase
• Pack panties inside bra cups — Saves space and maintains cup shape
• Bring a small mesh wash bag — For quick hand washing at your destination
• Pack travel-size delicate wash — Hotel toiletries are too harsh
• Roll items to prevent wrinkles — Better than folding for delicate fabrics
• Keep separate from shoes and toiletries — Prevent stains and odors

Common Mistakes to Avoid