If you’re on this page, chances are you’ve lost—or are about to lose—your favourite bra or shapewear far too soon because of improper care. It’s heartbreaking, isn’t it?
The truth is, most lingerie damage doesn’t happen while wearing it. It happens while washing, drying and storing it the wrong way.
This guide is here to change that.
Proper lingerie care tips like reading care labels, gentle washing, correct drying, smart storage and rotation help bras, panties, shapewear and nightwear last longer.
Top 7 Lingerie Care Tips to Double the Life of Your Intimates
Taking a few extra minutes to handle your lingerie correctly can save you a fortune in the long run. These seven essential habits will keep your bras, panties and shapewear looking brand new and feeling incredibly supportive.
1. Always Check the Care Label
Most of us make this mistake. We check the tag only to know the size and price. Once we buy the lingerie, we quickly cut the tag and throw it away before even trying it on.
But it’s time to stop that habit.
Manufacturers add care labels for a reason. If it says “Hand Wash Only” or “Dry Clean Only”, trust it. Delicate and high-end fabrics can lose shape, shrink or even get damaged if they go through a high-heat wash cycle.
The care label clearly tells you:
- Whether it should be hand washed or machine washed
- The ideal water temperature
- If it can be tumble dried or only air dried
Taking a few seconds to read that label can save your favourite lingerie from early damage.
2. Hand Washing Lingerie
Hand washing is the safest and most gentle way to care for your lingerie. It is especially best for bras, lace panties, shapewear, bodysuits, babydolls, chemises and body stockings, as these fabrics are delicate and can get damaged easily in rough washes.
It may feel time-consuming, but a few extra minutes can make your lingerie last much longer.
How to Hand Wash Lingerie Properly
- Use cold or lukewarm water (never hot)
- Add ½–1 teaspoon of mild detergent
- Gently swirl the lingerie in water for 2–3 minutes (Include similar colours together to avoid stains)
- Do not scrub, twist, or wring the fabric
Also Read: How Often Should You Wash Your Bras
How to Treat Stains in Lingerie
- Dab the stain gently with diluted detergent
- Let it soak for 10–15 minutes
- Avoid brushing or rubbing hard or using harsh chemicals
How Often Should You Hand Wash?
- Bras: After 2–3 wears
- Panties: After every wear
- Shapewear: After every wear
- Sleepwear (chemises, babydolls): After 2 wears
Gentle washing habits keep your lingerie soft, supportive and comfortable for a long time.
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3. Machine Washing Lingerie – When You’re Short on Time
Yes, you can machine wash lingerie — but only if you do it the right way. A little care while using the washing machine can prevent stretched straps, bent wires and torn lace.
Always Use a Lingerie Wash Bag
A lingerie wash bag is a must when machine washing.
- Place all lingerie inside a mesh lingerie bag
- Hook bras before putting them in to avoid snagging
Machine Wash Settings
- Choose a gentle or delicate cycle
- Always use cold water
- Add a small quantity of mild detergent
🚫 Avoid fabric softener completely. It may smell nice, but it weakens the elastic and reduces the life of your lingerie.
Can You Wash Multiple Lingerie Together?
Yes, you can wash a few pieces together, but avoid overcrowding. You can place 2–3 bras in one bag or a mix of panties and a bodysuit. Just make sure the bag isn’t overstuffed. Lingerie needs space to move gently to get cleaned properly.
Read Next: Best Way to Wash Bras in a Washing Machine
4. Drying Lingerie the Right Way
Drying is where most lingerie damage actually happens. Even if you wash everything correctly, the wrong drying method can ruin the shape of your lingerie.
So, follow these simple golden rules while drying your intimates.
- Never wring or twist the fabric
- Never use a dryer
- Avoid direct sunlight, as it weakens elastic and fades colours
How to Dry Different Lingerie Items
- Lay flat on a clean towel, or over a clothesline by the centre gore
- Or place them gently on hangers
❌ Do not clip the straps — this stretches them over time
Panties & Shapewear
- Hang by the waistband using soft clips
Bodysuits, Camisoles & Chemises
- Hang gently from the centre, or
- Fold them over a clothesline to dry
Body Stockings
- Always lay flat to dry to prevent stretching and sagging
Taking a little extra care while drying helps your lingerie keep its shape, support and comfort for much longer.
Recommended For You: Here’s Why You Need to Sun Dry Your Lingerie
5. Storing Lingerie Properly
Proper storage plays a big role in maintaining the shape and quality of your lingerie. Even well-washed lingerie can lose its form if it is stored carelessly.
Let’s look at the right way to store different lingerie pieces.
How to Store Bras
- Stack moulded bras cup-into-cup
- Always keep the cups in their natural shape
- Do not fold one cup into another, as this can cause permanent dents
- Use bra bags to store bras while travelling
How to Store Panties & Shapewear
- Fold them neatly and place them in breathable drawers
- Avoid tight stuffing, which can stretch elastic and damage fabric
For Special Lingerie
- Lace, satin, and bridal lingerie should be stored separately
- Use cotton pouches or fabric organisers whenever possible
A little effort while storing helps your lingerie stay fresh, supportive and ready to wear whenever you need it.
Related Post: 5 Simple Lingerie Storage Ideas and Tricks
6. Know When It’s Time to Retire Lingerie
Over time, elastic weakens, fabric thins out, and support reduces — and that’s completely normal. Wearing worn-out lingerie can be uncomfortable and may even affect how your clothes fit. Knowing when to let go helps you stay comfortable and well-supported.
Common Signs Your Lingerie Needs Replacing
- The “Crunch”
When you stretch the band and hear a sound like crackers breaking, it means the elastic is worn out. This usually happens with bras, panties and shapewear.
- The “Poke”
If an underwire starts poking out, it’s time to say goodbye. Sewing it back in rarely works and often ends with painful pokes. This sign is common in underwired bras and bodysuits.
- The “Sag”
If your bra band rides up your back or your shapewear no longer holds or smooths, it’s no longer doing its job. This applies to bras, shapewear, bodysuits and body stockings.
- Loose Straps or Rolled Elastic
When straps keep slipping or elastic starts rolling, the support is gone. This is a clear sign in bras, camisoles, panties, and chemises. - Thin or Transparent Fabric
If the fabric looks worn, see-through or rough on the skin, it’s time to replace it. This often happens with panties, sleepwear and body stockings.
Letting go of old lingerie isn’t wasteful — it’s necessary for comfort, support and confidence.
7. Rotate Your Lingerie to Make It Last Longer
Wearing the same lingerie again and again doesn’t give the fabric or elastic enough time to recover. This is especially true for bras and shapewear, which stretch throughout the day.
Rotating your lingerie allows the elastic to rest and bounce back, helping each piece last longer and stay comfortable.
Ideal Lingerie Rotation for Everyday Use
Everyday Bras
- Keep at least 3–5 bras in rotation
- Avoid wearing the same bra two days in a row
Panties
- Aim for 10–12 pairs for daily wear
- This ensures proper hygiene and reduces fabric wear
Shapewear
- Own at least 2–3 pieces
- This helps maintain compression and shape
Bodysuits, Camisoles & Slips
- Having 2–3 pieces allows gentle wear without overstretching
Body Stockings & Special Lingerie
- Rotate carefully and avoid frequent use
- These delicate pieces benefit the most from rest between wears
A small lingerie collection, when rotated properly, can last longer, feel better, and save you money in the long run.
Lingerie Investment Tip
What to Look For
When buying new lingerie, don’t choose based only on colour or price. What really matters is how it feels on your body and how well it supports you over time.
Good-quality lingerie not only lasts longer but also stays comfortable through multiple washes and wears.
What to Check Before Buying Quality Lingerie
- Soft, Breathable Fabrics
Look for fabrics like cotton, modal or microfibre that feel gentle on the skin and allow airflow. - Strong Stitching and Seams
Check the seams and edges. Neat, secure stitching means the lingerie is less likely to tear or lose shape quickly. - Firm but Stretchable Elastic
Elastic should feel supportive without being tight. If it stretches and bounces back easily, it’s a good sign of durability. - Smooth Underwire Channels
For underwired lingerie, the wire casing should feel soft and well padded. This prevents poking and discomfort later. - Comfortable, Adjustable Straps
Straps should sit comfortably on your shoulders without digging in or slipping off.
Remember:
Good lingerie may cost a little more, but it lasts longer, feels better on your body and saves money in the long run.
Quick Summary Table: Lingerie Care at a Glance
| Item Type | Wash Method | Drying Method |
| Bras / Shapewear | Handwash / Bagged Machine | Drape over bridge / Flat |
| Silk Chemise | Handwash Only | Hanger (No clips) |
| Bodysuits | Bagged Machine | Flat on a towel |
| Panties | Machine (Delicate) | Line dry |
Final Thoughts
Caring for your lingerie doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. A few mindful habits while washing, drying, storing and rotating can make a big difference in how long your bras, panties, shapewear and nightwear last.
When you take care of your lingerie, you’re also taking care of your comfort, confidence and wallet. Well-maintained lingerie supports you better, feels kinder on your skin, and stays with you much longer.
So slow down, be gentle, and give your intimates the care they deserve. Because good lingerie isn’t just about looking good — it’s about feeling comfortable and confident every single day.