Adjusting the shoulder strap on your bra
Short answer: You adjust the shoulder strap by shortening or lengthening it, so it sits firmly without pulling or digging in. The band carries most of the support, so the strap only has to hold the cups in place. Check that nothing slips off and that there are no marks.
What the shoulder strap should do
The shoulder strap holds the cups in place and takes a small part of the weight, but most of it comes from the band. If the strap is too tight, it pulls the cups upward, and if it is too loose, the bra falls. Properly adjusted, it sits firmly without being felt.
How to adjust it
Most bras have a small slider that you move to make the strap longer or shorter. Do it a little at a time and try after each adjustment. Hold the cup while you adjust, so you do not pull it crooked. See our bamboo bra without underwire.
How tight should it be
The strap should be tight enough for the cups to lie calmly, but not so tight that it pulls at the shoulders or leaves deep marks. You should be able to slide a finger under it without feeling resistance. If it feels tight, loosen it a little.
Straps that slip off the shoulders
If the straps slide down, they may be too loose, or they may sit too far out towards the arm. Try tightening them a little, or use a bra where the straps sit closer to the neck. Narrow or sloping shoulders can also make it harder.
Straps that dig in
If the straps dig in, they are either too tight, or the band is too loose so the straps carry too much. Check the band first, which should sit flat and level. If it is fine, loosen the straps a little, or choose a wider, softer strap.
Choosing a strap
Width and softness matter. A wider strap spreads the pressure, but can show under some tops. A thin strap is more discreet, but may press more. Find the one that suits your clothes and your comfort, and check that the elastic is soft.
Clothes and straps
For tops with a narrow shoulder or a low back it can help if the straps can be crossed or removed. See our bamboo tops for women and find a cut that suits your bra. Check that the strap does not show if you do not want it to.
Caring for the straps
Wash the bra at a low temperature by the care label, use a net and air dry. Do not hang it up by the straps when it is wet, since that stretches them. Combine with bamboo tennis socks for women as a soft part of your wardrobe.
Frequently asked questions
How do I adjust the shoulder strap on my bra?
Move the small slider to shorten or lengthen the strap. Do it a little at a time, and try after each adjustment. Hold the cup while you adjust, so it is not pulled crooked.
Why do my straps slip off my shoulders?
They may be too loose or sit too far out towards the arm. Try tightening them a little, or choose a bra where the straps sit closer to the neck.
Why do my straps dig in?
They are either too tight, or the band is too loose so the straps carry too much. Check the band first, then loosen the straps or choose a wider one.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
