How to make your lingerie last, according to a designer

You replace them how often?!

I still have my first training bra sitting in my wardrobe. I still have the nipple covers (long without their stickiness) used in high school somewhere there too. I didn’t think I had attachment issues, but my underwear cupboard says otherwise. For too long, I’ve held onto barely-wearable balconettes and bras past their due-by date.

I confess, I’ve invested in some pieces, only for them to sport an odd bra cup or misshapen underwire. Enough is enough, I say. It’s time for me to treat my lingerie drawer with the respect it so very deserves. In a bid to decrease my cost per wear, I decided to talk to an expert.

Looking for more ways to procrastinate? We’re with you. Come on over to our Fashion section.

Deb Morrison, lingerie designer at Bendon, was kind enough to offer her insider expert opinion into the world of underwear maintenance. Here, she tells us exactly how often we should be washing and replacing our lingerie, as well as her top tips on properly caring for our pieces in order to extend their life.

How often should we be replacing our lingerie?

I like to think of lingerie as a cherished piece of art that deserves the utmost care. The lifespan of your lingerie greatly depends on how well you look after it and how often you wear it. Generally, a well-maintained bra can last anywhere from six months to a year, or even longer.

To prolong the life of your bras, it’s wise to have a few in rotation and consider replacing them when you notice signs of wear, like stretched-out bands, frayed straps or damaged underwires. As for briefs, they should be replaced more frequently, usually every six months to a year, depending on their condition.

How often should we be washing our bras?

As a rule of thumb, I suggest washing your bras after two to three wears. Keep in mind this can vary depending on factors such as personal hygiene, how much you sweat and the climate you live in. To ensure your lingerie maintains its shape and quality, always follow the care instructions on the label.

How should we properly wash our lingerie?

Treat your lingerie with the same love and care you would give to your favourite woollens, silks or cashmere tops. When washing your lingerie, separate your delicates from other clothing items. Using a mesh laundry bag can protect your precious pieces from damage and prevent them from tangling with other clothes. Remember to wash your lingerie with similar colours to avoid colour bleeding.

Preserve the elasticity and colours of your lingerie by washing them on a cold temperature setting. Most modern detergents are designed to work effectively in cold water, allowing you to achieve a thorough clean while being gentle on your delicates. Before washing, always close the hook-and-eye fastenings on your bras. This not only helps prevent them from snagging on other garments but also keeps them from getting twisted in the wash.

Some lingerie items, especially those made from delicate materials like lace or silk, should be hand washed to prevent damage. Gently submerge the item in a tub of cool water with a mild detergent and carefully agitate it to remove dirt and oils. Rinse thoroughly and gently squeeze out excess water, being careful not to wring or twist the garment.

How should we store and fold bras?

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the shape and integrity of your bras. For moulded or padded bras, stack them with the cups nestled into each other to maintain their shape. Avoid folding the cups inward or crumpling them, as this can cause creases or dents. For non-padded bras, you can fold them in half with the cups facing each other. Store your bras in a drawer or on a shelf, away from direct sunlight or moisture, to keep them looking and feeling fabulous.

Need more advice about buying and wearing lingerie? Try this.