Washing underwear, such as bras, is one method of keeping our clothes clean. However, washing certain types of bras too often can cause them to deteriorate quickly. So, how frequently should bras be washed?
How frequently should bras be washed?
You may have wondered how frequently bras should be washed. Breasts are a sweaty area, and if not kept clean, bacteria can grow there. Wearing a clean bra not only promotes skin health, but it also boosts confidence.
Experts have varying opinions on how often bras should be washed; there is currently no set rule for how frequently you should wash your bra. Everyday Health recommends washing your bra after 2 to 3 uses.
Several factors can determine when you should wash your bra, including:
- How much do you sweat. If you engage in strenuous activities or sports, you should immediately wash your bra, even if you only wear it once. A sweat-soaked bra is uncomfortable to wear and can harbor bacteria if not washed right away
- Body odor. If you notice body odor, wash your bra right away. Wearing clean clothes can help reduce the smell of bad body odor
- Duration of wear. According to the Cleveland Clinic, you can wear the same bra for 1-2 days as long as you take it off every few hours. This also applies if you do not sweat excessively or engage in strenuous activities
- Other products you use. If you wear body care products like perfume, lotion, or baby oil and they get on your bra, you may need to wash them more or less often, depending on whether the product makes the bra dirtier and thus requires washing
Tips for proper bra washing
Bras are undergarments that come into direct contact with your breasts. Suppose your bra becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi as a result of dead skin cells, oil, and sweat. this can cause skin problems like itching, irritation, rashes, and bacterial and fungal infections. To avoid this, make it a habit to wash your bras properly.
Errors in washing bras can change their shape and elasticity, affecting their ability to support your breasts. To keep your bras comfortable and functional, always wash them according to the label instructions.
- Some bras recommend that you wash them by hand and use a mild liquid detergent
- If you're going to machine wash them, place the bras in a laundry bag first to keep them from twisting and changing shape
Using and caring for bras as directed can help them last longer and remain comfortable for many years. Bras that are stretched, too loose, or too tight can cause back pain, nipple pain, and skin issues like blisters or stretch marks. If you're experiencing these complaints as a result of bra wear, it's time to get a new bra.
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- Sean Edbert Lim, MBBS
Migala, J. (2023). How Often Should You Wash Your Bra?. Available from: https://www.everydayhealth.com/healthy-skin/how-often-should-you-wash-your-bra/
Cleveland Clinic. How Often Do You Really Need To Wash Your Bras?. Available from: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-often-do-you-really-need-to-wash-your-bras/
Rachel, E. (2023). Signs You’re Wearing the Wrong Bra. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/women/ss/slideshow-signs-wearing-the-wrong-bra