Is your underwear tearing faster than it is supposed to? Did you know that the life cycle of underwear is generally around 6-12 months? During this period, they (read: underwear) work a lot harder than you think, providing support, comfort, and hygiene throughout the day. Yet, many people unknowingly damage their undergarments with improper washing techniques (Note: and that’s why we are here to educate you!).
With a few tweaks and some lesser-known tricks, you can extend the lifespan of your underwear while keeping it fresh and functional.
The Secret to Washing Underwear Like a Pro
Start with the Basics: Care Labels and Sorting
Every piece of underwear comes with a care label—don’t skip it. It contains crucial information about washing temperatures, drying methods, and special instructions. For example, delicate lace may require cold water and hand washing, while cotton blends can handle a gentle machine cycle.
Before washing, separate your underwear by fabric type and color. Dark-colored underwear can bleed, staining lighter pieces. Similarly, delicate materials like silk or lace should never be mixed with heavier fabrics.
Pre-Wash Tips to Prevent Damage
Rinse Before Washing: Rinse underwear with cold water as soon as possible after wearing to remove sweat and oils. This helps prevent discoloration and odor buildup.
Spot-Treat Stains Gently: If you notice stains, use a solution of water and mild detergent. Dab gently—never scrub with a hard brush, especially on the cotton gusset, to avoid damaging fibers.
Shop Neubodi’s Delicate Lingerie Wash Detergent here.
3A) Hand Washing: The Gold Standard
Hand washing is the safest way to clean your underwear. Here’s how:
3B) Machine Washing: The Silver Merit
If hand washing isn’t an option, follow these tips to minimize damage:
4) Drying Tips: Protecting the Fabric
Air Dry Only: High heat from dryers weakens elastic fibers and can shrink fabrics. Lay underwear flat on a towel or drying rack to maintain its shape.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Sunlight can cause fading and weaken the fabric, especially for materials like spandex, lace or silk.
No Hanging by Waistbands: Hanging your underwear can stretch the elastic over time. Instead, lay it flat to preserve its fit.
Want to Level Up One Step Higher?
Here are Neubodi’s Hidden Tricks for Longer Lasting Underwear
Always wash your underwear inside out to protect prints, lace, and seams from wear and tear. This also ensures that the inner fabric—the part closest to your skin—gets thoroughly cleaned.
While warm water might seem like a better cleaning option, cold water is gentler on fabric and helps retain elasticity.
Avoid wearing and washing the same pieces too often. Rotating your underwear gives each piece time to rest, reducing wear and tear.
Store underwear in a dry, well-ventilated area. Folding them neatly instead of cramming them into a drawer prevents the elastic from stretching unnecessarily.
Look Out!!
Don’t Make These Common Mistakes!
Mistake #1: Skipping the Rinse
Residual detergent left in the fabric can irritate the skin and weaken fibers. Always rinse thoroughly.
Mistake #2: Using Harsh Detergents
Strong detergents or bleach can cause fading and break down elastic. Stick to mild, hypoallergenic options.
Find Delicate Lingerie Wash Detergent here.
Mistake #3: Overloading the Washer
Too many clothes in one load create unnecessary friction, leading to pilling and tears.
Mistake #4: Not using Laundry Wash Bag
Using a laundry wash bag prevents tangling, reduces friction, protects elasticity, and extends the lifespan of your underwear by creating a safe barrier during machine washing.
Find Delicate Lingerie Wash Bag Set here.
Ta-daaa! There you have all of your tips and know-hows to tackle and handle your underwear the best that you can. Your underwear is more than just an everyday essential—it’s a delicate piece of clothing that deserves thoughtful care. By following these often-overlooked tips, you’ll not only prolong the life of your undergarments but also ensure they stay as comfortable and supportive as the day you bought them.
Remember, great underwear starts with great care. Treat your lingerie and essentials right, and they’ll return the favor with comfort and durability every day!
For more of Neubodi panty and lingerie, check out the full collections at www.neubodi.com.
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