The perfect bra provides support and comfort, but a poorly maintained bra can lead to scratching, poking, and awkward protrusions. Once you’ve found bras that fit and flatter your figure, you need to maintain them properly so they’ll last as long as possible. Here are some of the most important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when caring for your lingerie. 

Do:

Wash by hand.

Washing machines are rough on bras, especially those with delicate lace or padding. To keep them from tearing or losing their shape, wash them by hand in cool water with a mild detergent, rather than throwing them in the washing machine. If you must machine wash, place them inside a mesh laundry bag and use the delicate cycle setting, again in cool water. 

Lay flat to dry.

Similarly, the heat and movement of your dryer can throw off the shape of your bras, breaks down the elastic in the bras, and can even displace the underwire. Instead lay them flat to dry, or on a hanger, and make sure they’re shaped correctly when you lay them out (or while hanging).   

 

Don’t:

Fold them in your drawers.

To save space in drawers, a lot of women fold one cup into the other. However, this can wrinkle the padding and scrunch the fabric in the center of the bra. Instead, lay them flat with the cups fully in place.

Compromise on quality.

Bras made from durable materials and quality craftsmanship tend to last longer. When shopping, don’t be afraid to look for bras crafted with details like embroidery, lace, and sturdy straps. Even if you have to invest a bit more upfront, your bras will ultimately hold up better over the long run, and you won’t need to replace them as often. High-quality bras are made with fabrics that are simple to clean, so don’t compromise on quality. 

Last but not least, we recommend the rule of 3’s:  

1. One to wear 

2. One to wash 

3. One in your drawer

By rotating your bras, you will give them a longer life cycle!  

If you’re in the market for any new bras or lingerie, head to Lady Olga’s Lingerie in Hamden, CT. Customer service is the store’s top priority, with several certified “bra-tenders” who can help women find the exact products that work for their needs. They even offer hard-to-find sizes and options for those with post-breast surgery. In addition to bras and panties, the store also carries a wide selection of women’s clothing, accessories, and sleepwear. Tying the knot?  Don’t forget to check out our Bridal Room!  View a selection of products and brands online or call (203) 288-1133.