How to Extend the Life of Your Lingerie
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Let’s be real—good lingerie isn’t cheap. Whether you’re splurging on a lace bralette from Savage X Fenty or investing in a supportive underwire from Victoria’s Secret, you want your intimates to last. But tossing them in with the rest of your laundry? That’s basically lingerie suicide.
As someone who’s tested over 200 bras and panties across 5 years of reviewing lingerie (yes, it’s a job), I’ve seen what kills delicate fabrics fast—and what keeps them looking fresh for months, even years. Spoiler: It’s not just about washing. It’s a full care cycle.
Why Most Lingerie Dies Early
A 2023 study by the Textile Restoration Council found that 68% of bras lose shape within 3 months—mostly due to improper care. Heat, friction, and harsh detergents break down elastic fibers like spandex and elastane faster than you’d think.
The good news? With the right habits, you can double—or even triple—the lifespan of your favorite pieces.
4 Pro Tips to Make Lingerie Last
- Wash Less, Rotate More
Bras need at least 24 hours between wears to let elastic recover. Rotate 3–4 bras weekly to extend band elasticity. According to bra engineers at Wacoal, this simple habit adds ~9 months to a bra’s usable life. - Hand-Wash with Cold Water
Skip the machine. Use a sink, cold water, and a detergent made for delicates (like Woolite or The Laundress Delicate Wash). Gently swirl for 2–3 minutes, then rinse. - Always Use a Mesh Bag (If Machine Washing)
Some brands, like ThirdLove, say their styles are machine-safe—but only in a mesh bag and on gentle cycle. Still, hand-washing is safer. - Air-Dry Flat or Hanging
Never toss lingerie in the dryer. Heat melts elastic. Lay bras flat or hang them by the center gore (not the straps!) to dry.
Recommended Lingerie Care Routine
| Care Step | Best Practice | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Wearing Frequency | Rotate 3–4 bras | Preserves band elasticity |
| Washing Method | Hand-wash every 3–4 wears | Reduces fiber stress |
| Detergent | Petroleum-free, pH-balanced | Prevents lace degradation |
| Drying | Air-dry, away from sunlight | Stops color fading & shrinkage |
Storage That Makes a Difference
How you store matters. Never crumple bras into a drawer. Instead:
- Lay them flat, cups nested
- Use dividers to prevent crushing
- Store away from humidity (no bathrooms!)
And one last thing: Replace your go-to bra every 6–12 months, even if it looks fine. The support fades long before the style does.
For more tips on choosing long-lasting styles, check out our guide to the best durable lingerie brands that balance comfort, fit, and fabric quality.