How to store underwear so it keeps its shape

Short answer: Underwear should lie loosely, not be pressed together. A compressed elastic keeps the shape of the press, and that changes how the brief sits.

Lay loosely rather than stuffing

An overfilled drawer presses the elastic together for months at a time. Lay them instead in loose layers with space between. A half full drawer keeps underwear in better condition than a full one. See bamboo briefs.

Divide the drawer

A divider between cuts means you can find the right one without rummaging through the rest. See bamboo underwear for women.

Avoid turning them into each other

Turning one brief inside another stretches the waistband. Lay them flat instead, then the elastic rests without tension until you use them again.

Make sure it is completely dry

Underwear folded away slightly damp smells after a week in the drawer. See washing and care.

Frequently asked questions

Can storage ruin underwear?

An overfilled drawer presses the elastic together over time and changes the fit.

Should underwear be folded?

Lay it loosely flat. Avoid turning one piece into another, it stretches the waistband.

Why does underwear smell in the drawer?

Because it was folded away slightly damp. Make sure it is completely dry.