Lingerie is designed differently to the rest of your wardrobe. Fine lace, sheer mesh, delicate embroidery, and stretch elastics are chosen for how they look and feel against the skin — which means they need a gentler touch than a typical wash cycle gives them. Treat these pieces with a little extra care, and they'll keep their shape, softness, and colour longer.
To care for lingerie properly, hand-wash using cold or lukewarm water and a gentle detergent, avoid bleach and tumble dryers, and lay flat to air-dry. Always check the care label first, as it's your best guide to protecting delicate fabrics, elasticity, and shape.
Caring for your lingerie correctly helps maintain its softness, fit, and longevity. Materials like lace, mesh, embroidery, and elastic fibres are easily damaged by heat, harsh detergents, and over-washing. This guide covers how to wash, dry, store, and maintain your lingerie so it looks and feels its best, wash after wash.
How Often Should You Wash Lingerie?
Knowing how often to wash lingerie is just as important as knowing how to wash it.
- Underwear: After every wear for hygiene reasons.
- Bras: After every 3–4 wears, unless heavily stained or worn during intense activity.
- Shapewear or Lingerie: After every wear due to close contact with skin.
Good to know
Over-washing bras can weaken elastic fibres and reduce support, while under-washing underwear can lead to hygiene issues.How to Wash Lingerie Properly
Hand-Washing Lingerie
Hand-washing is the safest way to clean lingerie and preserve delicate fabrics.
How to hand-wash lingerie:
- Fill a clean bowl or sink with cold or lukewarm water.
- Add a small amount of gentle detergent designed for delicate fabrics.
- Submerge your lingerie and let it soak for 5–10 minutes.
- Gently swirl the garments in the water, avoid scrubbing or wringing.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Press out excess water gently using a towel.
Can You Machine-Wash Lingerie?
Yes, lingerie can be machine-washed only if the care label allows it.
Machine-washing tips:
- Use a 30°C gentle or delicate cycle.
- Place items in a mesh lingerie or underwear care bag.
- Fasten bra hooks to prevent snagging.
- Wash with similar lightweight items.
Worth remembering
Machine washing can cause friction, stretching, and fraying if proper precautions are not taken.What Do Lingerie Care Label Symbols Mean?
Care labels provide essential instructions for maintaining lingerie quality.
- Bucket with 30° Machine wash at a maximum of 30°C
- Crossed triangle Do not bleach
- Square with crossed circle Do not tumble dry
- Iron with a cross Do not iron
- Circle with a cross Do not dry clean
Ignoring care symbols can lead to shrinkage, colour fading, fibre damage, and loss of elasticity.
How to Dry Lingerie Without Damage
Drying lingerie incorrectly is one of the most common causes of damage.
The Best Way to Dry Lingerie
- Never tumble dry lingerie.
- Lay garments out flat.
- Gently reshape cups and straps while damp.
- Allow to air-dry naturally away from direct heat or sunlight.
Good to know
Hanging bras by their straps can stretch elastic over time, so flat drying is always recommended.Fabric-Specific Lingerie Care Tips
Lace & Embroidered Lingerie
- Always hand-wash
- Avoid friction and twisting
- Use cold water only
Silk Lingerie
- Hand-wash separately
- Use silk-safe detergent
- Do not soak for extended periods
Cotton Lingerie
- Can usually be machine-washed at 30°C
- Avoid high heat drying
How to Remove Stains From Lingerie
If a stain appears, act quickly and follow these steps:
- Blot the stain gently - do not rub.
- Rinse with cold water from the back of the fabric.
- Apply a small amount of gentle detergent.
- Work it in lightly with fingers.
How to Store Lingerie to Maintain Shape
Proper storage is essential for preserving lingerie structure.
- Store bras flat or nested to protect cups.
- Avoid folding moulded cups in half.
- Keep lingerie in a cool, dry drawer.
- Use drawer dividers for organisation.
- When travelling, place bras in a dedicated lingerie pouch.
FAQs About Caring for Lingerie
Can you wash lingerie in the washing machine?
Yes, lingerie can be machine-washed on a gentle 30°C cycle using a mesh laundry bag, provided the care label allows it.
How often should bras be washed?
Bras should typically be washed after every 3–4 wears to maintain elasticity and support.
What is the best detergent for lingerie?
A mild, fragrance-free detergent designed for delicate fabrics is best.
Can lingerie be tumble-dried?
No, tumble drying can cause shrinkage, stretching, and fibre damage.
Should lingerie be dry cleaned?
Dry cleaning is generally not recommended unless specified on the care label.
