A wireless bra in a laundry net or by hand
Short answer: A soft wireless bra can take both a laundry net and hand washing, but hand washing is the gentlest. Use lukewarm water and mild detergent and do not wring it. If it goes in the machine, put it in a net on a gentle programme.
Hand washing as the mildest option
Fill a basin with lukewarm water and a little mild detergent and let a soft wireless bra soak for a couple of minutes. Press gently and rinse thoroughly. Do not wring it, because that can pull the fabric out of shape. Hand washing suits those who wash only a few items at a time.
A laundry net protects in the machine
A net keeps cups and straps in place and stops them catching on other clothes. Fasten the bra so the hooks do not pull at the fabric, and put only one or two in each net. Choose a gentle programme and a low temperature. See bamboo bra without underwire for more models.
Use the right detergent
A mild detergent without bleach protects fabric and elastic. Avoid softener, which can leave a film and make the elastic slack. Dose by the pack and use no more than necessary. If you are unsure, check the label in the bra.
Temperature and types of laundry
A low temperature is usually best for colour and elastic. Wash bras with other delicates and avoid heavy laundry, blankets and anything with zips and hook-and-loop tape that they can catch on. Sort by colour so light bras do not pick up colour.
Drying without heat
Let it dry flat or hanging by the band, and never on the radiator or in the dryer. Heat makes the elastic brittle and weakens the support. Shake out the bra and shape the cups with your hand while it is damp so it holds its shape.
Storing after washing
Lay the bra flat in the drawer and avoid folding the cups into each other. A soft wireless bra can take a little pressure, but keeps its shape best when the cups can lie freely. Rotate between several so each bra gets time to rest between wears.
How often it should be washed
Most people wash the bra after a few wears, depending on activity and weather. Sweat and skin oil can wear down the fabric, so wash more often if you have been sweating. Give it a rest day between wears if you can, so the elastic can pull back together.
When the bra looks worn
If the elastic is slack, the fabric bobbly or the straps slide, it is time to replace it. Care extends the life but not forever. Combine with bamboo underwear for women and a women's long-sleeved bamboo T-shirt so the rest of the wash follows the same principles.
Frequently asked questions
Can a wireless bra go in the washing machine?
Yes, in a laundry net on a gentle programme at a low temperature. Hand washing is the gentlest, though, and can extend its life.
Can a bra go in the dryer?
It is best to avoid it, because heat weakens the elastic. Let it dry flat or hanging.
How often should a bra be washed?
After a few wears, and more often if you have been sweating. Give it a rest day between wears.
