This archive report was first published on 12 January 2020.
Proper bra storage is crucial to prevent damage and extend the life of your bras. However, many of us make a common mistake that can cause significant harm.
According to bra fitters, twisting your bra in half can cause damage to both the cups and the wires, especially underwire or moulded styles. Michael Thomson, owner of Pour Moi, advises treating your bras with the same care as you would your suits, saying, "you would never fold or misshape it, and the same level of care should be made."
Thomson recommends stuffing the cups with socks or rolled-up knickers to keep the shape and encourage firmness, but only while they're flat. However, you can get away with folding unpadded or 'cut and sew' bras, and even silk or lace ones, if you fold them inside out to protect the material.
Katie Thacker from the buying team at Boux Avenue suggests storing your bras flat rather than folding them in half, but this depends on how much space you have to spare. To have enough room to store your bras, consider getting rid of any tattered, ill-fitting ones.
Marie Kondo your bra collection and throw out any that no longer bring you joy, cause you pain, or make your boobs look lop-sided. This will give you room to carefully lay out each of your bras flat and on top of each other.
But how long is too long to wear the same bra? Agent Provocateur preaches the three-day rule, stating that wearing your bra for longer than three days in a row can cause it to stretch and lose shape. They also recommend washing your bras after three to four wears, but this is just a rough guide.
Washing too much can actually cause the elastic to weaken, meaning you'll be spending a load of unnecessary money on new bras. Quick tip: if you're washing your bra in the washing machine, make sure to fasten your bra before you wash it, as it could get stuck in the drum.
Since our bra's supports us every day, it's now time to return the favour.
