It’s frustrating to see your favourite bras lose their shape and elasticity after just a few washes. If the washing or cleaning process you’re following is not gentle to your delicate garments, these frustrating incidents will repeat. So, is handwashing a solution? Yes, it is.
Handwashing your bras is the key to preserving their quality and longevity, ensuring they stay as comfortable and reliable as the day you bought them. However, you must know how to handwash a bra in the right way to avoid damaging the material.
In this article, you’ll get to know the details steps of handwashing a bra and some tips and tricks to maintain its quality for longer.
Table of Contents
How to Handwash A Bra? Step-by-Step Process
Let’s follow these simple yet effective steps to handwash a bra so you can ensure your bra stays in top condition.
Step 1: Prepare the Cleaning Solution
Start by filling a basin or sink with lukewarm water. Now, add mild laundry detergent (a small amount), preferably one free of fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals.
These mild soaps are gentle on the delicate fabric of your bra and prevent irritation to sensitive skin. Mix the water and detergent until it creates a soapy solution, ensuring enough liquid to cover the bra fully.
Step 2: Treat Any Stains
Before soaking, inspect your bra for any visible stains. Using a clean washcloth, dab the stained areas with the soapy water. Gently rub the fabric to help lift the stains without damaging the delicate material. This pre-treatment helps ensure that your bra is thoroughly cleaned during the washing process.
Step 3: Soak the Bra
Submerge your bra in the prepared soapy water, ensuring it is fully covered.
Leave it to soak for about 10 to 15 minutes. During this time, gently agitate the water with your hands to help the detergent penetrate the fabric and remove any embedded dirt or oils. This soaking process is crucial for loosening grime without harsh scrubbing.
Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly
Once the bra has soaked, drain out the soapy water and refill the sink with clean, cool water. Gently swish the bra in the clean water to rinse out all the soap. Be thorough in this step to ensure no detergent residue is left behind, as it can irritate your skin and break down the fabric over time.
Step 5: Remove Excess Water
After rinsing, take your bra out of the water and gently press it against the sink’s edge to remove any extra water. Do not wring or twist the fabric, as this can distort the bra’s shape. Lay the bra on a clean, dry towel, then gently press the towel over the bra to absorb more water.
Step 6: Dry Properly
To dry your bra, lay it flat on a clean, dry towel or hang it up in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
Try not to hang the bra by its straps, as this can cause them to stretch and lose elasticity. Air drying is the best method to maintain the bra’s shape and prolong its lifespan.
How to Dry A Bra Faster
Drying a bra quickly while maintaining its shape and integrity can be a bit challenging. However, there are a few effective methods you can use.
- After handwashing your bra, gently press out excess water with a clean towel. Avoid wringing or twisting the bra, as this can distort its shape.
- To speed up drying, you can place the bra on a fresh, dry towel, fold the towel over it, and press down to absorb more moisture.
- Another option is to use a hairdryer on a cool or low heat setting, holding it at least six inches away to avoid damaging the fabric. Ensure the airflow is evenly distributed to prevent over-drying any particular area.
- Instead of hanging the bra by its straps, lay it flat or drape it over a drying rack in a well-ventilated area to dry evenly and maintain its shape.
What If You Must Use A Washing Machine?
Handwashing is always the best option for maintaining the quality of your bras, but if you must use a washing machine, there are ways to minimise potential damage. Follow these steps to protect your bras while getting them clean.
Step 1: Prepare Your Bras for Washing
Before placing your bras in the washing machine, take a few precautions. First, fasten the hooks to prevent them from snagging on other clothing items or the washing machine itself.
Next, place your bras inside a mesh lingerie bag. This bag acts as a protective barrier, shielding the delicate fabric and structure of your bras from the rough motions of the machine.
Step 2: Choose the Right Cycle and Temperature
Set your washing machine to the gentle or delicate cycle, which uses less agitation and helps preserve the shape and elasticity of your bras.
Use cold water, as hot water can weaken the elastic fibres and cause shrinkage. Use a mild detergent that’s free of harsh chemicals to gently cleanse your bras without causing damage.
Step 3: Avoid Fabric Softener
While it may be tempting to use fabric softener for added softness, it’s best to avoid it when washing bras.
Fabric softeners can leave a residue on the fabric, which can break down the elasticity over time and affect the bra’s fit and support. Stick to mild detergent only to keep your bras in good condition.
Step 4: Drying Your Bras
The best way to dry your bras is to lay them flat on a towel in a well-ventilated area. However, if you’re in a hurry, you can use the dryer on the lowest heat setting.
Avoid high heat, as it can damage the elastic and spandex, causing the bra to lose its shape. Tumble drying on a low setting is gentler, but be sure to remove the bras as soon as they are dry to prevent over-drying and stretching.
Storage Tips
Here are some tips for storing your bras to keep them in the best condition:
- Avoid Inverting the Cups: Never store padded bras with one cup inverted into the other. This can damage the cup’s structure and shorten the bra’s lifespan. Instead, lay them flat with the cups facing up to maintain their shape.
- Stack Bras Neatly: Dedicate a shallow drawer to your bras, stacking them upright and nested inside each other. This not only saves space but also keeps your bras organized and protected from damage.
- Close Clasps Before Storing: Always close the clasps on your bras before storing them. This prevents the hooks from snagging on other items and keeps the bra’s shape intact.
- Avoid Folding Bras in Half: While folding bras in half with one cup tucked into the other may save space, it can cause wrinkles and damage. Instead, lay them flat or stack them as mentioned above.
Also Read: Perfect Fit, Perfect Feel: How is a Bra Supposed to Fit?
FAQs
Can You Wash Bra Daily?
Yes, you can wash a bra daily, but it’s unnecessary unless it’s heavily soiled or you’ve been sweating a lot. Washing a bra too frequently can wear out the fabric and elastic faster. It’s generally recommended to wash bras after every 2-3 wears. If you need to clean it daily, handwashing with mild detergent is gentler and helps maintain the bra’s shape and longevity.
Can You Hand-Wash Sticky Bras?
To clean a sticky bra, hold one cup in your palm and wet the adhesive side with warm water. Add a few drops of mild, non-moisturizing liquid soap. Gently rub the adhesive in a circular motion using only your fingertips. Be careful not to use your nails, which can damage the adhesive surface.
Wrapping Up
That’s all we had to say about how to handwash a bra. Hopefully, things are clear to you now.
By using a gentle detergent, soaking, rinsing thoroughly, and carefully drying your bra, you can keep it in excellent condition. This process not only preserves the shape and elasticity of your bra but also ensures it remains comfortable and supportive. With regular care, your bras will look and feel great for a long time.