Knowing how to wash a bra properly is important. Not only will it keep you from damaging it, it will also last you longer. Hand washing is the safest method, but sometimes this is not possible and you have to put it in the washing machine. This article will explain how to wash it by hand, but also how to use the washing machine safely.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Hand Wash a Bra
Step 1. Fill the sink with warm water and pour in some mild detergent
You only need a dose of between a teaspoon and a tablespoon. If you don't have a sink available, you can use a bucket instead. Make sure you use an alcohol-free detergent specifically for hand washing. Don't you have any at home? You can make one with ease:
- Mix 250ml of warm water, one teaspoon of baby shampoo, 1-2 drops of essential oil (such as lavender or chamomile). Fill a sink or bucket with warm water, then pour in the homemade detergent.
- Dilute some liquid castile soap with water, then pour it into the sink or bucket you filled with warm water.
Step 2. Mix the detergent with the water
You can shake the liquid with your hand. Keep doing this until foam forms.
Step 3. Put the bras in the water
You need to immerse them completely and let them absorb the water. Try to wash similar colors together, avoid mixing light and dark bras.
Step 4. Let them soak in the soapy water for 10-15 minutes
This allows the detergent to dissolve the sebum or dirt. If they are particularly dirty, leave them in the water for an hour.
Step 5. Move the bras in the water and squeeze them gently
This helps loosen dirt and sebum. At this point the water will have become quite cloudy.
Step 6. Drain the dirty water and rinse the bras
Repeat this process until the water runs clear. You could rinse them in the bathtub, so you'll have more space.
Step 7. If the bras are very dirty, put them back in the soapy water and rinse them again
If you haven't washed them in a while, you may need to repeat these steps. Do not reuse used water, as it will be dirty. Make sure you rinse them well: there should be no soap traces left.
Step 8. Press the bras between two wipes to remove excess water
Spread them out on a towel and cover them with another. Press one hand on the top towel and each bra. Don't squeeze or twist them.
Step 9. Reshape the cups and let them air dry
You can hang them or spread them out on a clean, dry towel. If you decide to hang them, do not put the clothespins on the straps, otherwise they will come loose. Instead, rest the middle of the bra on a clothesline or clothesline. You can also hang it on a hanger by closing the hook.
Method 2 of 2: Put the Bra in the Washing Machine
Step 1. Close the hooks
If you don't, they will hook onto other garments during the wash. Does the bra not have these elements (for example is it sporty)? Then you don't have to worry about it.
Step 2. Place the bra in a laundry net bag
That way, it won't tangle with other clothing. In addition, it will be protected by heavier items of clothing, such as jeans.
Step 3. Wash it together with similar colors
If you add it to a washing machine load, make sure you don't mix different colors. Wash white bras with other whites, light ones (for example beige and pastels) with other light ones and dark ones (like navy and black) with other dark colors. Mixing colors can cause them to fade, so you'll end up with faded and dull clothing.
Step 4. Try to wash it with fabrics of a similar weight
Jeans and towels are much heavier than bras, so they could damage them. Instead, try washing them alongside lighter items, such as t-shirts, tank tops, socks, and pajamas.
Step 5. Wash your bra using detergent and a gentle wash cycle
The water should be cold, as hot temperatures can wear out and weaken the fibers. Do not use aggressive detergents: they can weaken and deteriorate the fabric over time.
Step 6. Reshape the cups of the bra after the cycle is complete
Remove the bra from the mesh bag and press on the inside of the cup until it regains its original shape.
If the bra is soaked and dripping, do not squeeze or twist it. Instead, place it between 2 towels and squeeze it to remove excess water
Step 7. Let it air dry
Do not use the dryer, as the heat will cause the straps to loosen, so they will lose their elasticity. You can hang the bra by placing the central part of it on a clothesline or a rope. You can also hook it to a hanger. Do not hang it by the straps, or they will spread out too much. If you don't have any hangers, ropes or drying ropes available, you can lay it on a clean, dry towel.
If you must use the dryer, set a cycle that does not blow out hot air. Be sure to leave the bra in the mesh bag to prevent it from tangling with other clothing
Advice
- Wash the bra after wearing it 3-4 times. After putting on a bra, be sure to let it sit for a day before using it again.
- Bras with underwire and more sophisticated bras should always be washed by hand. The cheaper ones, cotton, sports or for t-shirts can be washed in the washing machine.
- If you don't have a lingerie or mesh bag, you can use a pillowcase. Make sure you tie it up before you put it in the washing machine so the bra won't come out.
- If the bra label has special instructions, follow them.
- Even when using the dryer, padded bras or push-ups can still come out damp. Keep this in mind if you intend to go to an event. You certainly shouldn't be wearing a wet bra.
Warnings
- Some detergents contain chemicals that could damage certain fabrics. To avoid this, you should invest in a suitable detergent for underwear.
- Don't use traditional bleach for bras. If you really think you need this product, choose the chlorine-free one instead. Over time, regular bleach ruins elastane, a material that is often used to make bras.
