Lingerie Care Guide - Extend the Life of Your Favorite Pieces

Proper care transforms a $30 bra from a seasonal piece into a 3-year wardrobe staple. This guide covers everything you need to know about caring for your lingerie.

Washing Your Lingerie

Hand Washing (Recommended)

The gentlest method for delicate fabrics:

• Fill a basin with lukewarm water (30°C/86°F max)
• Add a small amount of gentle detergent specifically designed for delicates
• Submerge the garment and gently agitate for 2-3 minutes
• Rinse thoroughly with cool water until water runs clear
• Press (don't wring) to remove excess water

Machine Washing (If Necessary)

When hand washing isn't possible:

• Always use a lingerie wash bag to prevent tangling and snagging
• Select the delicate or hand-wash cycle with cold water
• Use a gentle detergent formulated for delicates
• Never use fabric softener — it breaks down elastic fibers

Drying Your Lingerie

• Air dry always — heat from dryers destroys elasticity and shape
• Hang bras by the center gore (the bridge between the cups) or lay flat
• Avoid hanging panties by the waistband — this stretches the elastic
• Keep lingerie away from direct sunlight and heat sources
• Never tumble dry — even on low heat

Storage Tips

• Store bras flat or stacked (not hanging, which stretches the straps)
• Use the original shape of the bra — don't fold cups inside out
• Keep delicate pieces separated to prevent snagging
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight

General Maintenance

• Rotate your bras: Alternate between at least 3-4 bras to extend each one's life
• Hand wash between wears: Air out after each wear to reduce washing frequency
• Watch for signs of wear: Replace bras when the band no longer provides support or the underwire pokes through
• Secure hooks: After washing, fasten bra hooks to prevent snagging

Fabric-Specific Care

When to Replace Your Lingerie

Even with proper care, lingerie has a lifespan. Replace your bras when:

• The band has stretched and no longer offers support
• The underwire is bent, poking, or has broken through the fabric
• The elastic is visibly worn or the garment no longer holds its shape
• You've washed the garment 100+ times (average bra lifespan)

Shop Quality Lingerie

Invest in well-made lingerie that withstands regular wear. Irene's Secret offers premium-quality bras, panties, and loungewear designed to last. Browse our collection and enjoy free shipping on orders over $30.