Thursday, April 5, 2012

Cleaning Your Undergarments

Delicates are, of course, delicate. You should always be mindful of the design and material of your bras and panties when washing and caring for them. Some are sturdy enough to withstand a gentle cycle in the washing machine, but they should still be washed in a mesh bag so it doesn't snag onto anything. Others should be hand washed only, especially it's a good quality bra!

Here are some tips to help make your lingerie last.

"Because it is worn so often and loses elasticity over time, a bra generally lasts no longer than two years. But proper laundering can help ensure that bras and other intimates age gracefully. So how delicate do you need to be with delicates? Perhaps not as delicate as you think....
Underwear
To ensure thorough cleaning, wash underwear in light loads. Use the gentle cycle with warm water and all-purpose detergent, unless the label specifies “mild.”Tumble dry items that contain spandex on low or air-dry them to prevent shrinking. Hand wash delicate items, as with fine bras and lingerie.
Swimsuits
Rinse them well when you get home from the pool or the beach to remove chlorine or salt water, which can cause fading or changes in color;chlorine can also damage elasticity. Launder by hand or in the machine, as with everyday bras and lingerie. Air-dry.
Shapewear
In most cases, wash as for underwear. If the item has underwires, use a mesh bag. Since shapewear typically contains spandex, air-dry or tumble dry on low."

Read more about how to care for your undergarments on Real Simple! Click here