How to Care for Your Lingerie: Washing and Storage Tips

Quick Answer

To keep your lingerie in top shape, hand wash with a gentle detergent in cool water, never wring, and lay flat or hang to dry. For bras, use a lingerie bag on a delicate cycle if machine washing, and store by hooking the back and nesting cups to preserve their shape.

Your lingerie works hard every day, providing support and comfort. But how you treat it between wears determines how long it lasts. Proper care not only keeps fabrics looking fresh but also maintains the elasticity and shape that make your favorite bras and underwear feel great.

Whether you're washing a delicate lace bra or a smoothing slip short, a few simple habits can make a huge difference. In this guide, we'll walk you through the best practices for washing and storing lingerie, so you can get the most out of every piece.

Why Lingerie Needs Special Care

Unlike everyday clothing, lingerie is often made from delicate fabrics like lace, microfiber, and elastic blends that can easily stretch, snag, or lose their shape. The wires, hooks, and straps in bras are particularly vulnerable to the agitation of a regular washing machine cycle. Even the smoothing panels in underwear can break down if not handled gently.

By adopting a careful washing and storage routine, you protect the structural integrity of your pieces. This means they continue to provide the support and comfort they were designed for, wear after wear. Plus, proper care helps retain colors and prevents fabric pilling, keeping your lingerie looking beautiful longer.

Preparing Your Lingerie for Washing

Before you start, always check the care label on each garment for specific instructions. Fasten any hooks or clasps to prevent them from snagging on other items. If you have particularly delicate pieces, consider placing them in a mesh lingerie bag—even if you plan to hand wash, the bag adds an extra layer of protection.

Sort your lingerie by color and fabric type. Wash dark colors separately to avoid dye transfer, and group similar fabrics so that heavier items don't damage lighter ones. This simple preparation step ensures that your delicate items aren't subjected to unnecessary stress during washing.

The Best Way to Wash Bras and Underwear

Hand washing is the gentlest method and is recommended for most lingerie. Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water and add a small amount of a gentle detergent specifically designed for delicates. Submerge your items and gently swirl them for a few minutes. Avoid scrubbing or twisting, as this can distort the shape. Rinse thoroughly in clean water until no soap remains.

If you prefer to use a washing machine, place your lingerie in a mesh lingerie bag and select the delicate or hand-wash cycle with cold water. Use a mild detergent and skip the fabric softener, which can break down elastic fibers. Always air dry your lingerie—never put it in the dryer, as heat can damage elasticity and cause shrinkage.

Drying and Storing Your Lingerie

After washing, gently press out excess water with a clean towel—do not wring. For bras, reshape the cups and lay them flat on a drying rack, or hang them by the center gore (the fabric between the cups) to avoid stretching the straps. Underwear and slips can be laid flat or hung to dry in a shaded area.

Once dry, store your lingerie properly to maintain its shape. For bras, hook the back closure and lay them flat in a drawer, nesting the cups to prevent crushing. Avoid folding bras in half or hanging them by the straps, as this can stretch them. Underwear and slip shorts can be folded neatly or rolled to save space. Keep your lingerie in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.

Step-by-Step Lingerie Care Routine

1. Check the care label and prep: Read the care label for any specific instructions. Fasten hooks and clasps, and sort by color and fabric. Always follow the label—it's your best guide.
2. Hand wash or machine wash with care: Hand wash in cool water with a gentle detergent. If machine washing, use a lingerie bag and delicate cycle. Never use fabric softener—it can break down elastic.
3. Rinse and dry gently: Rinse thoroughly, press out excess water with a towel, and reshape. Air dry flat or hang by the center gore. Never wring or tumble dry—heat and twisting damage fibers.
4. Store to preserve shape: Hook bras and lay flat with cups nested. Fold or roll underwear and slips. Keep in a cool, dry, dark place. Proper storage extends the life of your lingerie.

Lingerie That Loves a Little Extra Care

• Evelyn Bra - Black Onyx (Final Sale): Timeless elegance, reimagined wirefree. The Evelyn pairs a scalloped V-neckline with our ultra-lift bodice for a naturally defined shape. Smoothing from front to back, this bra is both flattering and functional, making it a wardrobe staple that combines modern innovation with classic beauty. The Evelyn's ultra-lift bodice and smoothing panels rely on precise construction. Gentle washing and proper storage help maintain that lift and smoothness, so it continues to flatter and support over time.
• Slip Short - Umber (Final Sale): Meet your everyday essential, reimagined. The Slip Short is where comfort meets confidence. Designed with a high rise and longline silhouette, it offers effortless smoothing and says farewell to thigh-rub. Perfect beneath skirts, dresses, and tunics—or worn solo for lounging, light movement, or bedtime. The Slip Short's smoothing effect depends on its fabric and elastic. Hand washing and air drying help preserve that smoothing power, so it continues to prevent thigh-rub and feel comfortable wear after wear.

With a little attention and care, your lingerie can stay supportive, comfortable, and beautiful for a long time. By following these simple washing and storage steps, you'll protect your investment and ensure every piece feels as good as the day you bought it.