Lingerie expert reveals how often you really should wash your bra – and the best cleaning method to avoid damage
How to treat your bras is a topic that has long divided the nation – but if you’re torn between washing them every day, wearing them for the long haul, or even the best way to clean them, we’ve got an expert for you. advise. .
Georgina Bibby, lingerie tech expert at UK clothing store Next, revealed how often you should wash your bras as well as how to store them, adding that a little ‘TLC’ will make them last longer.
It also takes into account that all bra wearers are different and can live different lifestyles.
She explains, “It will depend on the wearer and your daily activities, but washing your bra after two or three uses is a good general rule to follow.
“As well as maintaining your bras, you should also consider replacing old ones. The general rule is to replace bras after about 180 uses.
Georgina Bibby, lingerie tech expert at UK clothing store Next, has revealed how often you should wash your bras as well as how to store them (stock image)
Georgina also revealed how to keep your lingerie safe in the wash, saying, “Many bras are made from delicate materials and can also snag other clothes if washed in large quantities.”
“When washing your bra, be sure to zip it up and use a mesh garment bag to cushion the bra and prevent it from twisting and tangling in your washing machine.”
“Washing it on a gentle cycle with cold water, avoiding the dryer, air drying and storing flat instead of rolled up will ensure the bra retains its shape and quality.”
But for some, after coming home from a long, hard day, cleaning a bra is probably the furthest thing from their minds.
Georgina says the average age of a women’s bra is 5.5 years old, while a million UK women own a bra over 20 years old (stock image)
Last year, Australian influencer Renee Hogan sparked furious debate when she revealed she only washed her bra once a week.
Meanwhile elsewhere, an unknown woman has sparked a heated debate online after revealing that she had worn her bras “many, many times” before washing them – adding that her underwear “never seemed obviously dirty”, and that they did not retain “any kind of perfume”. ‘.
These women’s habits might be seen by some as a way to save money, but whatever the reason, Georgina suggests the practice could cost you your bra in the long run.
“Showing your bra a little love and tenderness will help you enjoy it for much longer,” says Georgina.
However, it will be difficult to twist the arms of a “bra-hoarding nation”. She explained: “Our research shows that we are a nation of bra hoarders.
“The average age of a women’s bra is 5.5 years, and one million British women own a bra that is over 20 years old.”
Watch for the telltale signs that your bra is being overused, including stretched back band, stretched cups, damaged fabric, visible elastic threads, and general discomfort while wearing.
