How to care for lingerie so it keeps its shape for longer

Why proper care matters

Lingerie is worn and washed regularly, while its materials require more delicate treatment than most other wardrobe items. Lace, microfibre, elastic fibres and moulded cups can be sensitive to high temperatures, intensive spinning and incorrect storage.

Anabel Arto offers bras, briefs, lingerie sets, bodysuits, seamless lingerie and swimwear. Although these products differ in construction, the same general rule applies to all of them: the more carefully they are treated, the longer they will retain their original fit and comfort.

How to wash lingerie correctly

Hand washing or a delicate machine cycle with a mild detergent is usually the best option. Water that is too hot can damage elastic fibres and shorten the life of the item.

When washing lingerie in a machine, use a specialist laundry bag. Bras should also be fastened beforehand to prevent the hooks from catching on the fabric or other garments.

How to care for a bra

Bras require particularly careful handling because the shape of the cups and the elasticity of the band are essential for a proper fit.

Do not wring the bra after washing. Instead, gently blot it with a towel, reshape the cups by hand and leave it to dry on a flat surface. This method helps preserve the shape and prevent distortion.

How to care for briefs

Briefs are generally less demanding, although lace, seamless and fine-fabric styles also require gentle washing.

To prevent snagging, wash them separately from clothing with zips, metal fittings or coarse fabrics. This will help preserve the neat appearance and elasticity of the material for longer.

How to dry lingerie correctly

After washing, it is best to allow lingerie to dry naturally, away from radiators, heaters and direct sunlight.

Bras should ideally be dried flat to avoid stretching the straps and to help the cups retain their shape. Briefs and soft styles can be dried in the usual way, provided the fabric is not placed under unnecessary tension.

How to store lingerie

Correct storage is just as important as washing. Moulded bras should be placed next to one another without turning the cups inside out or crushing them.

Briefs, bralettes and seamless styles can be stored separately by category. When space allows, specialist organisers are useful for preventing distortion and keeping everything tidy.

What to avoid

To help lingerie last longer, avoid bleach, very hot water and intensive spin cycles.

It is also best not to wear the same bra for several days in a row. Allowing a short break between wears gives the elastic fibres time to recover and can help extend the life of the item.

How to care for lingerie while travelling

When travelling, it is particularly important to protect lingerie from distortion. Pack bras so that the cups are not compressed by other items, and keep briefs and delicate pieces in a separate fabric bag.

This helps lingerie take up less space while remaining neat, even after a long journey.

FAQ

Can lingerie be washed in a washing machine?

Yes, provided that you use a delicate cycle, cool water and a specialist laundry bag.

Why should a bra not be dried on a radiator?

High temperatures can damage elastic materials and distort the cups.

How should moulded bras be stored?

Place them next to one another without turning the cups inside out or crushing them.

Should bras be rotated?

Yes. Giving each bra a break between wears helps the materials retain their shape and elasticity.

Conclusion

Gentle care can significantly extend the life of lingerie. Delicate washing, correct drying and careful storage help preserve the shape of the cups, the elasticity of the fabrics and a comfortable fit. Anabel Arto offers different lingerie categories, and each item will last longer when its construction is taken into account and simple care guidelines are followed.