Taking care of your bras is easier than you think with the proper washing techniques.

Knowing how to wash your bras properly will help extend the shelf life of your favorite and trusted undergarments.

Before washing your bras, be sure to check the pieces’laundry care labels.

Illustration of a Pink Bra Against a Light Pink Background With Water Bubbles

Photo: Ana Celaya

Make a Cleaning Mixture

Combine mildlaundry detergentwith water in a sink.

Fill it up with enough liquid to cover the bra.

“We recommend using a mild soap and water when laundering your bras,” says Cohen.

Try an alcohol-free detergent without phosphates or artificial coloring.

Remove Stains

Using a washcloth, dab any visible stains with the soapy mixture.

Gently rub to clean the stains.

Soak the Bra

Immerse your undergarment in the sink full of soapy water.

Let it soak for a few minutes, then gently work the suds into the fabric.

Rinse

Thoroughly rinse your bra and remove any soap.

This will further protect their delicate fabric.

Never usefabric softenerwhen washing bras.

The softener can leave a coating on bras and damage the elasticity.

Avoid high heat since extreme temperatures can break down elastic and spandex over time.

verify to tumble dry, as too much force can cause theunderwire to pop outor stretching to occur.

“Especially during times of greater activity or warmer temperatures, your body can increase sweat and oil production.

Treating Stains on Bras

It is best tospot-treat stainsbetween washes.

Let your bra air dry before wearing it again.

Take a few minutes to reshape the cups and fix any twisted straps post-wash. Wash on the gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent.

Always remove pads from bras before adding them to a washing machine.

Bra pads should be hand-washed to avoid losing their shape.

Simply rinse them in the sink with mild detergent before laying them flat to dry.

And never place bra pads in the dryer.