Since I have very recently flown (or escaped) the nest and moved to London all on my own, I now need to really pay attention to how I care for and wash my clothes, especially my bras.
Washing your bras correctly can be an important aspect when it comes to the longevity of the bra. So just as I was about to throw my bras into the washing machine, I thought it would be best to send my Nan an email (that's right, email, my Nan is that cool) to see how she would recommend doing it, as everyone knows 'Nan's know best!'
After a brief scolding about the machine wash idea, Nan went on to tell me the best way to wash my bras, which of course, is to hand wash them.
Step 1: Fill the sink with warm water and add a drop of hand wash 'non bio liquid for delicates' or any mild detergent. Do not use hot water as the heat effects the elasticity of the bra, causing it to become weak and stretch. Also never use fabric softener as it reduces the elasticity in the bra.
Step 2: Submerge the bras into the water and leave to soak for 5-10 minutes (depending how patient you are). Leaving them to soak is important as it allows the bra to get a thorough clean.
Step 3: After soaking, rinse the bras with cold water to remove the detergent. After this, squeeze out any excess water.
Step 4: Lay the bras flat on a towel to dry. This helps to keep the shape and this way they won't stretch. If you do have to hang you bras to dry, do so by the middle (centre gore) of the bra.
Step 5: Give yourself a pat on the back for being so patient during this process.
Although this is only 4 simple steps, I know a lot of people feel as though this is much too long of a process. Yes, hand washing pro longs the life of your bra, but if this does not bother you and you are willing to replace your bras every 6 months anyway, then machine washing might be the way for you, you rebel!
If you are going to machine wash then I would highly recommend investing in a wash bag (Nan does not agree, she says that hand washing is the only way to go, in fact she won't be pleased about me including this option - sorry Nan!)
If you are deciding to be rebellious and go against my Nan's hand washing wishes then a lingerie washbag is very important. A washbag helps to protect your bras from getting battered against tougher items of clothing. If your bras are washed loosely then the straps can get tangled around other items causing your bra to get majorly stretched!
The hooks on the backs of the bra can get caught in clothes causing pulls and they can also get stuck in the washing machine causing the machine to break. I don't know about you but I would much rather spend a couple of quid on a washbag than hundreds of pounds on a new washing machine (or new bras!).
Always wash your bras on a delicate cycle or cold water wash, as again the heat is not good for the elastic in your bras (this is also a great tip for gym clothes by the way, wash them in a cold wash for the same reason) and NEVER put your bras in the dryer, again, the heat. Better yet, if you have the 'hand wash' setting on your washing machine, use that! I mean, it is technically being hand washed then, right Nan? Don't forget to also never use fabric softener as it weakens the elasticity in your bras.
Although I think of myself as a 'busy city girl,' I am definitely going to try and do my best to hand wash my bras, as I personally see the longevity side of things much more of a positive.
A big thank-you to my Nan, for teaching be a valuable lesson and for helping me out with this blog!
How will you be washing your bras from now on?
