A great bra is an investment, so it makes sense to look after it properly.

Whether you've found your perfect everyday T-shirt bra or your favourite supportive bralette, the way you wash, dry and store your lingerie can make a big difference to how long it lasts.

The good news is that bra care doesn't have to be complicated. A few simple habits can help maintain the fit, support and shape of your favourite styles for much longer.

Here's everything you need to know.

How Often Should You Wash Your Bra?

There's no strict rule, but most everyday bras benefit from being washed after two to four wears, depending on the weather, your activity level and how much you've perspired.

If you've been exercising or it's particularly warm, you'll probably want to wash your bra sooner. Sports bras should generally be washed after every workout.

Regular washing removes body oils, sweat and skincare products that can gradually affect the fabrics and elastic.

Is It Better to Hand Wash Bras?

Hand washing is still the gentlest way to care for your bras.

It reduces friction, protects delicate fabrics and helps preserve the elastic that provides much of your bra's support.

To hand wash your bra:

• Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water.
• Add a small amount of detergent designed for delicate fabrics.
• Leave the bra to soak for around 10 to 15 minutes.
• Gently work the soapy water through the fabric using your hands.
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water until all detergent has been removed.

This simple routine helps your bras stay supportive and comfortable for longer.

Can You Put Bras in the Washing Machine?

Yes, but it's important to do it carefully.

If you're using a washing machine:

• Fasten the hooks before washing.
• Place your bra inside a mesh lingerie wash bag.
• Choose a gentle or delicate cycle.
• Wash with cool water.
• Use a mild detergent.
• Avoid washing bras alongside heavy items such as jeans or towels.

These simple precautions help reduce stretching, snagging and unnecessary wear.

Never Tumble Dry Your Bras

Heat is one of the quickest ways to shorten the life of a bra.

Tumble dryers can weaken elastic fibres, distort moulded cups and reduce the support your bra provides.

Instead, gently reshape your bra after washing and allow it to air dry naturally.

If you're caring for a smooth style such as the Daley Lace T-Shirt Bra, taking the time to air dry it will help the moulded cups keep their shape. Likewise, allowing softer styles like the Hallie Bralette or Gia Bralette to dry naturally helps preserve the supportive stretch fabrics that make them so comfortable to wear.

What's the Best Way to Store Bras?

How you store your bras is just as important as how you wash them.

Moulded or padded bras should be stored with the cups sitting inside one another rather than folded in half, as folding can permanently crease the cups.

Soft bralettes can simply be laid flat or stacked neatly in a drawer, helping them retain their shape and making them easier to organise.

How to Make Your Bras Last Longer

Good bra care isn't just about washing. A few everyday habits can significantly extend the life of your lingerie.

To help your bras stay supportive for longer:

• Rotate between several bras instead of wearing the same one every day.
• Fasten the hooks before washing to prevent snagging.
• Avoid fabric conditioner, as it can coat and weaken elastic fibres.
• Adjust your straps regularly as they naturally loosen over time.
• Store bras carefully to help maintain their shape.

These small changes can help preserve both the fit and appearance of your favourite bras.

Can You Wear the Same Bra Every Day?

You can, but it's not ideal.

Elastic fibres naturally recover after being stretched during wear. Giving your bra a day to rest before wearing it again helps the band retain its elasticity and support for longer.

Having three to five everyday bras in rotation can help spread the wear, meaning each one lasts longer.

When Is It Time to Replace Your Bra?

Even with excellent care, every bra will eventually reach the end of its lifespan.

Signs it may be time for a replacement include:

• The band feels loose, even on the tightest hook.
• The cups have become misshapen or creased.
• The straps won't stay adjusted.
• The underwire has started poking through the fabric.
• The bra no longer feels as supportive or comfortable as it once did.

If you're unsure whether your bra has worn out or simply no longer fits, our guide on How Long Should a Bra Last? explains the signs to look for.

Does Washing Affect How Supportive a Bra Is?

Over time, yes.

Harsh detergents, high temperatures and tumble drying can all damage the elastic fibres that provide much of your bra's support.

Gentle washing and air drying help preserve the structure of your bra, allowing it to perform as intended for longer.

Should You Wash New Bras Before Wearing Them?

Many people choose to wash new bras before wearing them for the first time.

This helps remove any residues from the manufacturing process and softens the fabrics slightly before they come into contact with your skin.

A gentle hand wash or delicate machine cycle is all that's needed.

Common Myths About Bra Care

Myth: Bras should be washed after every wear.

Not usually. Most everyday bras can comfortably be worn two to four times before washing, provided they haven't been exposed to excessive sweat or heat.

Myth: Tumble drying is fine on a low heat.

Even low heat can weaken elastic fibres and shorten the lifespan of your bra. Air drying is always the better option.

Myth: Folding moulded bras in half saves space.

Folding one cup inside the other can permanently damage moulded cups. It's better to store them with the cups nested naturally.

Myth: Expensive bras don't need special care.

Every bra benefits from gentle washing and proper storage, regardless of its price.

The Bottom Line

Looking after your bras properly doesn't take much extra effort, but it can make a big difference to how long they stay supportive, comfortable and beautiful.

Washing them gently, allowing them to air dry, rotating between your favourites and storing them correctly all help protect the fabrics and elastic that keep your bras fitting their best.

Whether it's your everyday Daley Lace T-Shirt Bra, your favourite Hallie Bralette or your go-to Gia Bralette, a little extra care means you'll enjoy wearing them for even longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you wash a bra?

Most everyday bras should be washed after two to four wears, while sports bras should usually be washed after every workout.

Is it better to hand wash bras?

Yes. Hand washing is the gentlest method and helps protect delicate fabrics, elastic and underwires.

Can you machine wash bras?

Yes, provided you use a mesh lingerie bag, a gentle cycle, cool water and a mild detergent.

Why shouldn't you tumble dry bras?

The heat from a tumble dryer can damage elastic fibres, distort cups and reduce the support your bra provides.

How should bras be stored?

Moulded bras should be stored with the cups nested inside one another, while softer bralettes can be laid flat or stacked neatly in a drawer.

How can I make my bras last longer?

Rotate between several bras, wash them gently, avoid tumble drying, store them carefully and adjust the straps as needed to help maintain their fit and support.

Should I wash a new bra before wearing it?

Many people do. A gentle wash before first wear can remove manufacturing residues and soften the fabric, making it more comfortable against your skin.