How often should you change your bra?

We all have those bras that we love to wear. As we speak, you could be wearing it.

You probably even have that favorite go-to bra that blends well with every outfit. I know you love that bra but, how often do you wash it? How often should you wash it anyway?

Bras are intimate wear and they’re always in close contact with our bodies. That means they accumulate a lot of bacteria, sweat, oil buildup and dead skin cells. I’m sure if you were to see that overly-worn bra under the microscope, you’d wash and disinfect it immediately. Maybe even throw it.

Different people have varying views on how often bras should be washed because there are many factors to consider. However you choose to approach your bra situation below are pointers on how to keep your bra fresh.

Should you wash every day?

Some bra experts recommend that bras should be washed after every wear. Various activities done during the day could really cause you to sweat which is why they think you should wash daily. This prevents any odor buildup in your bra and it also prevents skin irritation from wearing a dirty bra.

But, some people don’t agree. Sure it’s easier to do this when you have a washing machine but when you’re handwashing, it might not be such a practical routine. Also, over washing your bra reduces its longevity greatly.

Every two to three days?

A lot of women are more comfortable washing it after two to three wears rather than every day. This is a safe time to wash because by then, there is enough buildup and, your bra won’t be worn out easily.

Every week?

Some experts support that bras can be worn up to a week. You’re not at risk of getting a serious infection if you extend your wear for a few more days before washing them. This is especially supported by many because not everyone has time to constantly wash their bra throughout the week. When the only free time you have is the weekend, you take it. Plus your bra won’t wear out as much.

It depends on …

Where you live, how much you sweat, personal hygiene preferences and what activities you do during the day matters too. For example, if you live in a very humid area, you’ll sweat more and you’ll wash your bras more. Or if you sweat more naturally, you’ll be more comfortable washing your bra more often. But sports bras have to be washed after every wear because they get very sweaty.

People have different opinions but we can all agree that waiting for weeks or months to wash your bra isn’t hygienic. That said, below are some important things to note about bra maintenance and care.

The best way to handle your bra while washing is by being gentle. Avoid wringing it and twisting the wires because this will distort its natural shape. Pat the cups to get excess water out then hang it and let it dry. If you’re using a washing machine, hook the bra and place it in a lingerie bag before tossing it into the machine. Set it on a gently cycle then hang dry it rather than using a drier. As you wash your bra, you need to keep it clean and ensure it lasts at the same time. Bras can actually have an expiry date and at that point, it’s time to get some new ones. You’ll know it’s expired when it doesn’t fit well anymore. They stretch out over time and the shape changes. Also, you might have gained or lost weight within a few months so your cup sizes will fluctuate as well. A faded bra can also count as an expired one. Even if people don’t see it, it can affect your confidence and self-esteem. You’ll feel sexier when you invest in good bras. Try it!

 

What ‘old person’ things do you do?