How to Wash and Care for Bras and Lingerie So They Last Longer

A well-made bra should keep its shape for 8–12 months of regular wear. Most bras in Pakistan last half that — not because of the bra, but because of the washing machine. Here is the care routine we recommend for everything in your lingerie drawer.

Bras

1. Hand wash in cool water with a mild detergent or baby shampoo. Soak for 10 minutes, press gently, never scrub.
2. If you must machine wash, fasten the hooks, put the bra in a mesh laundry bag and use the delicate cycle with cold water.
3. Never wring. Squeeze water out gently with a towel.
4. Dry flat in the shade. Hanging by the straps stretches them; direct sun yellows white and skin shades.
5. Rotate between at least 3 bras so the elastic gets a day to recover.

Padded and push-up bras

Reshape the cups with your hands while they are damp so the padding does not crease. Never fold one cup into the other for storage.

Lace, net and lingerie sets

Lace snags easily. Wash lace separately from anything with hooks, zips or velcro, and always inside a mesh bag. Lay flat to dry.

Silk and satin nightwear

Cold water, a drop of mild detergent, and no soaking longer than 5 minutes. Roll in a towel, then hang in the shade. Iron inside out on the lowest setting if needed.

Shapewear

Rinse after every wear — sweat breaks down elastic. Hand wash, dry flat, and never use fabric softener, which coats the fibres and kills the stretch.

Cotton panties and period panties

Cotton can take a normal machine wash in cold or warm water. Period panties should be rinsed in cold water first, then washed normally without softener or bleach, and air dried.

When to replace

• The band stays loose on the tightest hook
• Underwire pokes through or feels bent
• Straps slip even when tightened
• Cups have permanent creases or the fabric has pilled

Time for a refresh? Browse bras, lingerie and panties at Pretty Wear — cash on delivery, discreet packaging, anywhere in Pakistan.