Bra Care 101: How to Properly Clean and Maintain Your Bras

So, you've finally found the perfect bra–one that actually fits comfortably while making you look beautiful and feel confident. Now that your BRABAR bra is your new best friend, you know you'll need to wash it often so you can wear it as much as possible. Unfortunately, it's easy to get lazy with your bra care routine, which can be detrimental to your new favorite article of clothing. Learning how to clean your bras is the best way to prolong their life so you don't have to part ways for years to come.

Why Proper Bra Care Matters

It sure is tempting to throw your bras in the washer and dryer with everything else, but it may not be the best way to care for them. Proper bra care matters, saving you money and increasing the longevity of your clothing.

Maintain the Shape and Fabric

A comfortable, high-quality bra gives you unstoppable confidence, but its support and shape can change over time due to frequent or improper washing. Caring for your bras appropriately will help the fabric stay like-new for longer, giving you the support you need to look and feel great.

Save Some Cash

When you spend money on a high-quality bra, you shouldn't have to replace it every year. Careful maintenance of your bras extends their lifespan and reduces the need to drop cash on new ones.

Keep Up On Your Hygiene

While some people ruin their bras with frequent, harsh cleaning practices, others may neglect maintenance altogether. Washing your bra regularly keeps it–and you–smelling fresh as a daisy. Maintaining your hygiene is a great way to show respect for your body. When you feel good, your confidence and beauty will shine through.

How to Wash Your Bras

When it comes to figuring out how to clean your bras, remember to be gentle. There are several ways to maintain your bra, but we recommend hand washing or gentle wash cycles, so you don't damage the fabric or shape. 

Hand Washing

Hand washing your bras is a surprisingly easy process:

• First, put some mild detergent into a sink or basin of warm water and let it dissolve completely
• Submerge your dirty bra into the water and allow them to soak for 15 minutes
• Gently scrub your bra by rubbing the fabric together 
• Pay special attention to any visibly dirty spots
• Rinse with cool water and then allow them to air dry

Spot Cleaning

Life is messy, and stains happen. If your bra needs some extra TLC, you may need to do some spot cleaning. Gently massage the stain using a moist cloth or sponge dipped in mild detergent, or dish soap for greasy spots. After you spot-clean your bra, thoroughly rinse the area with water.

Machine Washing

If you don't have the time to hand wash your bras, learning how to clean bras in a washing machine is an option. Place your bras in a mesh washing bag on a gentle cycle with cold water and a little detergent for best results. 

It is still recommended that you air dry your bras, as putting them in the dryer is not the best way to extend their life. Try drying them on a flat towel or hanging them instead of ringing them out. You may also want to avoid hanging them by their straps to prevent stretching or other damage.

Bra Maintenance Tips

Aside from washing your bras carefully, there are a few extra tips you should be aware of when it comes to excellent bra care.

Invest In High-Quality Bras

While knowing how to wash bras can extend their life, low-quality bras will inevitably wear out faster. High-quality bras from a reputable online bra company like BRABAR may use better fabrics and have more careful manufacturing processes. A quality bra is one that makes you feel comfortable, confident, and cute.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Bras are made of fragile fabrics and elastics that are easily damaged by harsh detergents. When learning how to clean bras, you should look for gentle detergents free of harsh chemicals that could damage or shrink the material. 

Don't Wear The Same Bra Repeatedly

We know it's tempting to wear the same bra day after day, especially when you love it so much! However, bras are more likely to last longer if you wear them in a steady rotation. Allowing your bra to rest in between wears gives time for the fabric to rest, which will help it last longer. Next time you find a bra you love from an online bra company, purchase a few to get the most bang for your buck! 

Don't Wash Your Bras Too Often

While learning how to wash bras is important to maintain their life, remember to wash them sparingly. Depending on your daily routine, most bras can be worn several days before needing to be cleaned. Overwashing expedites wear on the fabric and elastic, making your favorite bralette wear out quicker than average. You should maintain your bras on a regular schedule without being too excessive.

Q1: How do I know if I’m wearing the right size bra?

A1: The right size bra should feel comfortable and supportive. Your band should be snug on the loosest hook, and there should be no spillover or gaping in the cups. The straps should not dig in or slide off your shoulders. For a detailed guide, check out our fitting tools at BRABAR.

Q2: Can I measure my bra size at home?

A2: Absolutely! All you need is a measuring tape. Measure directly under your bust for the band size and around the fullest part of your bust for the cup size. For step-by-step instructions, visit our sizing guide on the BRABAR website.

Q3: How often should I replace my bras?

A3: We recommend replacing your bras every 6-12 months, depending on how often you wear and wash them. Over time, the elastic wears out, and the fit can change, especially with weight fluctuations or after washing.

Q4: Why does my bra band ride up in the back?

A4: If your bra band is riding up, it's likely too big. Try going down a band size for a more secure fit. Remember, when you go down a band size, you may need to go up a cup size.

Q5: How many bras should I have in my wardrobe?

A5: We suggest having at least three everyday bras to rotate through, allowing them to rest between wears. It's also great to have specific styles like a sports bra for activity, a strapless for certain outfits, and something lacey for those times you want to feel extra special.

Q6: What’s the difference between a bralette and a traditional bra?

A6: Bralettes are often wire-free with a more relaxed fit, offering comfort and light support, perfect for lounging or casual wear. Traditional bras usually have underwires and more structure for support. BRABAR has a variety of both to suit your needs!

Q7: How should I wash my bras?

A7: Hand washing is ideal to maintain the shape and elasticity of your bras. If you do use a machine, opt for a gentle cycle in a lingerie bag and always air dry. Check out BRABAR's care instructions for more tips!

Q8: What is a sister size in bras, and how do I find mine?

A8: A sister size is a different size bra that has a similar cup volume as your current size. If you go down in the band, go up in the cup, and vice versa. For example, if you’re a 34B, your sister sizes are 32C and 36A.

Q9: Why do my shoulders hurt after wearing a bra all day?

A9: Shoulder pain can be a sign that your bra isn't giving you the support you need from the band, causing the straps to take on too much weight. You might need a smaller band size or a style with wider straps for better distribution of weight. Check out BRABAR's selection for comfy, supportive options.

Q10: Can I sleep in my bra?

A10: It's a personal choice. If you find it comfortable and it helps you feel supported at night, you can. We recommend a soft, non-wired bra like those in BRABAR's collection for sleep.

Find Your Confidence With BRABAR

BRABAR believes that comfort is the foundation of confidence, which is why women and girls worldwide have fallen in love with our collection of wireless bras and bralettes. As an online bra company, we stand behind our quality products and are proud to spread our message of self-love and body positivity. Find your perfect fit at BRABAR.