How to Care for Delicate Lingerie: Washing, Drying & Storage Tips
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Premium lingerie is an investment — and with the right care, it will hold its shape, color, and softness for years. The fabrics used in fine lingerie (lace, silk, satin, microfiber, and elastane blends) are delicate by design. Here's how to keep them looking and feeling their best.
Always Check the Care Label First
Every piece in our collection comes with a care label. When in doubt, follow it. That said, most delicate lingerie follows the same general principles below.
Washing: Hand Wash Is Always Best
Hand washing is the gold standard for lingerie. Here's how to do it properly:
- Fill a clean basin or sink with cool or lukewarm water — never hot.
- Add a small amount of gentle lingerie wash or mild soap (avoid regular detergent, which can break down elastic fibers).
- Submerge the garment and gently agitate it with your hands for 1–2 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with cool water until all soap is removed.
- Do not wring or twist — gently press the water out instead.
Machine Washing: When You Must
If you use a washing machine, always:
- Use a mesh lingerie bag to protect delicate fabrics and underwires.
- Select the delicate or hand-wash cycle with cold water.
- Use a gentle detergent formulated for delicates.
- Never wash lingerie with heavy items like jeans or towels.
Never machine wash bras with underwires on a regular cycle — the agitation will warp the wires and distort the cups over time.
Drying: Air Dry Only
Heat is the enemy of lingerie. Always air dry:
- Lay bras flat on a clean towel to dry — hanging them by the straps can stretch them out of shape.
- Hang briefs, thongs, and soft bralettes on a drying rack or line.
- Keep lingerie out of direct sunlight, which can fade colors and weaken fibers.
- Never put lingerie in the dryer. The heat degrades elastic, shrinks fabric, and can melt delicate lace.
Storage: Protect the Shape
How you store your lingerie matters as much as how you wash it:
- Bras — store them stacked cup-to-cup in a drawer, never folded in half. Folding crushes the cups and distorts the shape over time.
- Underwire bras — never stuff them into a bag or suitcase without protection. Use a travel bra case when packing.
- Delicate sets — store in a breathable fabric pouch or lay flat in a dedicated drawer away from rough fabrics that can snag lace.
How Often Should You Wash Lingerie?
Bras can typically be worn 2–3 times between washes — rotating between a few bras extends the life of each one significantly. Underwear should be washed after every wear.
Shop Lingerie Worth Caring For
The brands in our Lingerie Collection are crafted from premium European fabrics designed to last — when cared for properly. Explore collections from Panache, Lisca, and more. For sizing help before you shop, visit our Women's Size Chart.