We get it, you’re busy—washing clothes isn’t how you’d like to spend your downtime. But as you’re throwing items into the laundry basket, you might be overlooking another piece of clothing that needs to be washed more often than you think—namely, your bra. If you go days or weeks without washing your bras—no shame, many of us do—you’ll want to step up your game to protect both your undergarments and your health.
“If you don’t wash bras often enough, body oil and sweat can accumulate on your bras, which can lead to unpleasant odors and even be transferred to your skin,” says Wendy Saladyga, fabric care expert and manager of technical performance at Henkel, a chemical and consumer goods company.
Allowing icky things like sweat and bacteria to build up on your bra can lead to skin problems like irritation and rashes, especially if your skin is already sensitive, says Lindsey Zubritsky, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist known her no-nonsense skincare advice. So, ready to make sure you’re taking the best care of your bras and your skin? Here’s what to know about when and how to wash your bras.
How often to wash your bra
Can’t remember the last time you washed your favorite bra? Better get out the laundry soap. Bras should be washed after every two to four wears, while sports bras should be washed after each wear, advises Saladyga.
While it’s easy to overlook washing your bras because they might still look and smell clean after you’ve worn them, that doesn’t mean they are, says Maeve Gesualdi, a bra specialist at Glamorise, a size-inclusive lingerie brand.
“Even if you didn’t sweat while wearing your bra, the oils from your skin will start transferring to the fabric as soon as you put it on,” says Gesualdi. “Your bras might not look or feel dirty, but leaving them unwashed after multiple wears can allow bacteria to grow.”
Letting too much time pass between washes can lead to a buildup of allergens, sweat, and bacteria on your bras, which can cause skin irritation and other issues, explains Dr. Zubritsky. “For those who already have sensitive skin conditions, this can lead to flare-ups and discomfort, so it’s best to stay on top of laundry day,” she adds.
Washing your bras regularly can also help the garments last longer because washing removes skin oils and sweat which can break down fabrics and damage elasticity over time, says Gesualdi.
Tips for washing your bras
The best way to wash your bras is by hand which preserves the shape and structure of delicate fabrics, increasing their longevity. But machine washing is also OK if you don’t want to spend the time on hand washing, advises Gesualdi.
No matter which method you choose to wash your bras, Dr. Zubritsky recommends always using a detergent that’s specially formulated for sensitive skin. “Since bras and undergarments constantly rub against skin, using a gentle detergent, especially one without dyes and perfumes, can limit irritation or flare-ups. Skin care can start in the laundry room,” she says.
Other tips for washing your bras from our experts:
- If you’re machine washing your bras, make sure to place them in a mesh lingerie bag and choose the delicate cycle.
- Always hook your bras before adding them to the washer to prevent snagging other clothing in the wash load.
- Never throw your bras in the clothes dryer. Reshape them and then air dry on a clothesline or flat surface.
- If you have any very delicate bras (such as with a lot of lace) stick to hand washing them in cool water.
And despite popular belief, it’s not possible to over wash your bras, says Gesualdi. “As long as you are taking proper care of your bras—handwashing where possible and always air- or line-drying them—you can wash your bras after every wear if you prefer to,” she adds.
When to replace a bra
No matter how much TLC you give your bras, the garments will eventually lose their structure and shape with wear and washing, explains Gesualdi. Signs that it’s time to replace your bra include bra bands and elastic that are stretched out or fabric that’s no longer holding its shape.
“If you have your bra hooked on the tightest setting and it still feels loose, it likely won’t provide the support you need, and you probably need a new bra,” says Gesualdi.
While there is no one right bra for everyone—a bra’s material, shape, and style is a matter of personal preference and comfort—if you have sensitive skin, Dr. Zubritsky recommends looking for bras made of softer, looser-fitting materials.
“If you have sensitive skin, it’s best to avoid synthetic material like nylon, spandex, or polyester. These fabrics can further irritate skin,” she says. “Instead, choose a breathable fabric that is lightweight, wicking, and appropriately fitting.” She says she recommends cotton bras for those with sensitive skin because the fabric is soft, breathable, and non-irritating.
Ensuring your bras fit properly can also help you avoid uncomfortable chafing and skin irritation, per Dr. Zubritsky. And while wire bras can offer added support, they also can potentially poke and aggravate the skin—so choose a wireless bra if this happens to you, she adds.
4 bras to try
Check out these four bras that match our experts’ criteria and win rave reviews from shoppers.
Glamorise Front-Closure Cotton T-Back Comfort Bra — $43.00
This bra checks all the boxes for those with sensitive skin or who just want a really comfy undergarment. Made from cotton, this bra also boasts a breathable, lace T-back. There’s also an adjustable front hook-and-eye closure that won’t dig into your back. The bra comes in three colors—café, white, and pink blush—and extended band and cup sizes up to 48G/H.
Fruit of the Loom Women’s Cotton T-Shirt Bra, 2-Pack — $18.00
If you’re looking for a comfy bra that won’t break the bank, you can’t beat this two-pack for under $20. Each pack comes with two different colors of the lightly-lined, underwire T-shirt bra with adjustable straps. Have trouble finding your size? This style has 25 cup-and-band sizes to choose from, ranging from 34A to 42DD. This bra has earned nearly 2,000 five-star reviews, winning raves from shoppers for being supportive, yet comfortable and soft.
Evelyn & Bobbie Beyond Seamless Wirefree Bra — $98.00
This is the best-selling bra from the brand created by a former financier who was always distracted by how uncomfortable her bras felt. The basic silhouette bra is seamless, wire-free, and made with moisture-wicking stretch fabric. The bra also features either three or four hook-and-eye closures and removable pads for a more customized fit. One note: The bra is made from nylon and spandex, so might not be the best choice if you have sensitive skin.
b.tempt’d by Wacoal Cotton to a Tee Underwire Plunge T-Shirt Bra — $46.00
If you prefer an underwire bra, this plunging number is smooth, lightly lined, and has convertible straps, making it perfect to wear under low-neckline, V-neck, halter, or tight-fitting shirts. The bra is available in multiple band and cup sizes between 32B and 38D in either black or rose smoke colors. With 82% four- and five-star reviews, shoppers recommend the bra for its functionality, softness, and “no-pinch coverage and support.”
Our editors independently select these products. Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission.
