Tips for Drying Lingerie Without Shrinking

Let’s be real—nobody wants to ruin their favorite lace bra or silk panties just because they air-dried it wrong. As someone who’s tested dozens of lingerie care methods (and sadly, destroyed a few $$$ sets along the way), I’ve cracked the code on how to dry lingerie without shrinking while keeping it soft, stretchy, and gorgeous.

Why Regular Drying Ruins Lingerie

Lingerie is made from delicate blends—think nylon, spandex, silk, and lace. These materials hate heat and tension. Toss them in the dryer? You’re basically signing a death warrant. According to the American Cleaning Institute, up to 68% of fabric shrinkage in intimate apparel comes from high-heat drying and improper handling.

The Right Way to Dry Lingerie: 4 Proven Steps

1. Wash Cold & Gently: Always use cold water and a mesh laundry bag. Hand-washing is ideal.
2. Press Out Water – Never Wring!: Wringing stretches elastic fibers. Instead, press between two towels.
3. Lay Flat to Dry: This prevents gravity from pulling the fabric out of shape.
4. Avoid Direct Sunlight: UV rays weaken fibers over time. Dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area.

Best Drying Methods Compared

As you can see, laying flat to dry wins hands down when it comes to preserving your investment. And if you're wondering how long it really takes—most bras need about 5 hours, while thongs dry in as little as 3.

Bonus Tips from the Pros

• Use a drying rack with a mesh surface to improve airflow.
• Never pin delicate fabrics—use non-metal hangers or lay flat.
• Rotate pieces every hour to speed up drying evenly.
• For quick drying, add a fan nearby (not blowing directly on fabric).

If you’re serious about making your lingerie last, treat it like fine art—not gym clothes. High-quality sets can cost $50+, so why risk ruining them? Following these simple steps will help you dry lingerie without shrinking and extend its life by months—or even years.

Bottom line: Skip the dryer, lay it flat, and thank yourself later.