Lingerie 101: Care & Maintenance Tips

Editor: Lady Rae

Hey gorgeous! Let’s talk about one of the most essential yet often neglected parts of your wardrobe – your lingerie. Whether you’re rocking lace, silk, cotton or modal, these little wonders deserve some TLC. Here’s everything you need to know about keeping your lingerie looking fabulous and feeling fresh – without the fuss!

Washing Your Lingerie: Treat It Like a Queen 👑

Lingerie isn’t like your average T-shirt. It’s delicate, it’s special, and it needs a gentle touch. Here’s how to keep your undies in tip-top shape:

Hand Wash, Baby!

If you’re truly committed to keeping your lingerie in its best form, hand washing is your best bet. Fill a basin with cool water, add a gentle detergent (a lingerie-specific one is ideal), and let your delicates soak for about 10-15 minutes. Gently rub to remove any dirt or sweat, then rinse with cool water until the detergent is gone. No wringing – let it air dry instead!

Machine Wash? Only With Care!

If hand washing isn’t your thing (hey, we get it), toss your delicate pieces in a mesh lingerie bag before throwing them into the washing machine. Set the machine to a delicate cycle, use cold water, and always choose a mild detergent. Say no to fabric softeners—they can mess with the elasticity of your lingerie.

Dry It Right

Air drying is your best friend when it comes to lingerie. Never, ever, EVER toss it in the dryer. The heat can damage delicate fabrics and elastic bands, causing them to lose shape and fit. Instead, lay your lingerie flat to dry or hang it by the straps (but not in direct sunlight—sunlight can fade colors!).

How Often Should You Wash Your Lingerie? 🧼

Let’s face it, no one wants to wash their favorite bra after every wear. So how often should you give your lingerie a wash?

Bras

If you wear a bra for a short period (like a few hours), you can usually get away with wearing it a couple of times before washing. But, for longer wear, it’s best to wash after every use. And, always remember to give your bra a “rest” day in between wears. This allows the elastic to bounce back into shape.

Panties

Fresh and clean every day! Panties should be washed after each wear (no exceptions here!). They come into direct contact with your skin and can accumulate bacteria, so regular washing is key.

Lingerie Sets

If you’ve worn them only for a few hours or during a special occasion, give them a break and wash after a few wears. If they’ve been in the gym, or worn under a sweaty outfit—time to toss them in the wash pronto.

When Should You Replace Your Lingerie? (Spoiler: More Often Than You Think!) 🔄

Lingerie doesn’t last forever (unfortunately!). Here’s when to let go and say goodbye to your favorite pair:

Bras: Bras tend to lose their elasticity after around 3-6 months of regular wear. Signs it’s time for a new one? If the band feels loose, the straps dig in, or if you notice your bra just doesn’t give the same support anymore. Don’t wait until it’s falling apart—get ahead of the game!

Panties: When the elastic starts to fray or the fabric becomes worn, it’s time to replace your undies. If your favorite pair has lost its shape or feels uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to toss it and replace it with something new and fresh.

Lingerie with Delicate Fabrics: Things like lace, silk, or satin can be more prone to wear and tear. If you notice any holes, snags, or faded colors that won’t come back, it’s time for an upgrade.

Bonus Tips for Lingerie Longevity ✨

Anyway: Treat Your Lingerie Right, and It’ll Treat You Right!

Your lingerie deserves to be pampered just like the rest of your wardrobe. With a little care and attention, you can keep your favorite pieces looking pristine and feeling fabulous for much longer. So, take a moment to appreciate your lace, silk, and cotton treasures – they’re worth the effort!

And remember: whether it’s hand washing or machine washing, air drying, or knowing when it’s time to replace, taking care of your lingerie will ensure it takes care of you. Now go ahead, feel fabulous, and treat yourself to a new set (or two)! 💁‍♀️✨

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