Breast Hygiene 101: How to Keep Your Bras & Skin Clean Daily
Keeping things fresh doesn’t have to be a massive chore.
Here is the lowdown on how to clean bras and breasts without losing your mind.
The Bra Rotation: Don't Be a Serial Wearer
We all have that one perfect bra that makes us feel like a million bucks. It is tempting to wear it every single day, but your skin (and the bra) will pay the price.
The 2-Wear Rule: Ideally, you should wash your bra after 2 to 3 wears. If you had a particularly active day or it was 90 degrees outside, that bra is a “one and done” situation.
Give it a Rest: Elastic needs time to snap back to its original shape. If you wear the same bra two days in a row, the heat from your body keeps the fibers stretched out. Rotating between two or three favourites will actually make them last much longer.
The Sniff Test is a Lie: By the time you can actually smell your bra, the bacteria have already set up a permanent camp. Wash it before it gets to that point.
Bra Laundry Hacks for the Busy (and Lazy)
You don’t need to hand-wash your bras to keep them clean. You need to be a little smarter about how to wash bras in the washing machine.
Use a Mesh Bag
Never drop your bra into the washing tub without a mesh bag. The hooks will snag on your favourite sweater, and the straps will get wrapped around the agitator. Use a mesh laundry bag to keep everything contained and protected.
Cold Water is Key
Heat is the absolute enemy of elastic and delicate lace. It is better to stick to cold or lukewarm water to prevent the fabric from breaking down.
Skip the Dryer Entirely
Yes, never put your bras in the dryer! The high heat causes the fabric to stretch. What you can do is lay them flat on a towel or hang them by the centre gore (the bit between the cups) to air dry.
FAQs
How often should I actually wash my bra?
Aim for every two to three wears. If you had a sweaty day or worked out, wash it immediately to prevent bacteria from growing.
Can I wear the same bra two days in a row?
It is best to skip a day. Letting the elastic rest helps the bra keep its shape and gives the fabric time to air out.
How do I stop getting rashes under my breasts?
Keep the area totally dry after showering. Wear breathable cotton and use talc-free powder if you sweat a lot during the day.
