How to Care for Your Delicate Lingerie: Washing and Storage Tips

Quick Answer

To keep delicate lingerie in top shape, always hand wash in cold water with a gentle detergent, never wring or twist, and lay flat to dry. Store bras flat or hanging by the center gore, and keep delicate items separate to avoid snags.

Delicate lingerie is an investment in comfort and confidence, but it requires special care to maintain its shape and softness. Whether you own a lace bralette or a silky camisole, improper washing can ruin the fabric and elastic. Follow these simple steps to keep your favorite pieces looking and feeling like new.

From Only Hearts, we know that the right care routine makes all the difference. Our pieces are designed to be loved and worn often, so we've put together this guide to help you wash and store your delicate items with confidence.

Why Hand Washing is Best

Hand washing is the gentlest way to clean delicate fabrics like lace, microfiber, and modal. It minimizes friction and prevents stretching or distortion. Always use cold water and a mild detergent specifically formulated for delicates. Avoid fabric softeners, which can coat fibers and reduce breathability.

If you're short on time, you can use a washing machine on a delicate cycle, but always place items in a mesh laundry bag. Even then, hand washing is safer for items with lace or adjustable straps. The Delicious with Lace Wrap Bralette, for example, features delicate lace trim that benefits from hand washing to maintain its shape.

• Check the care label first—most lingerie recommends hand washing.
• Use a gentle detergent without bleach or optical brighteners.

Step-by-Step Hand Washing

Fill a basin with cold water and add a small amount of delicate detergent. Submerge your lingerie and gently swish it around—never scrub or wring. Let it soak for about 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cold water until the water runs clear.

To remove excess water, press the garment between two clean towels. Do not twist or wring, as this can damage the fibers and elastics. Reshape the item while it's still damp and lay it flat on a drying rack or towel, away from direct sunlight and heat.

• Never use hot water—it can shrink or misshape delicate fabrics.
• Avoid hanging wet lingerie—gravity can stretch it out.

Drying Your Delicates

The best way to dry delicate lingerie is to lay it flat on a clean, dry towel. This allows the fabric to dry evenly without stretching. For items like the Venice Low Back Chemise, which is made from breathable rayon modal, laying flat helps maintain its flowy silhouette.

Never use a tumble dryer, as the heat and tumbling can break down elastic and cause shrinkage. If you must dry faster, roll the item in a towel and press gently to absorb moisture, then reshape and lay flat. Keep away from radiators or direct sunlight to prevent fading.

• Reshape the garment before drying to ensure it keeps its form.
• If you need to dry a bra, hook the back and lay it flat with the cups facing up.

Smart Storage Solutions

Proper storage is just as important as washing. Fold bras and place them in a drawer with space between items to avoid crushing the cups. For delicate camisoles and chemises, fold them loosely or hang them on padded hangers to prevent shoulder strap stretching.

Avoid storing lingerie in damp areas like bathrooms, as moisture can encourage mildew. Keep them in a cool, dry place. For items with lace or embellishments, consider storing them in a fabric-lined box to protect them from snags.

• Don't fold bras in half—it can damage the underwire.
• Use drawer dividers to keep delicate items separate from heavier clothing.

5 Steps to Perfect Lingerie Care

1. Read the Care Label: Always check the manufacturer's instructions. Most Only Hearts pieces say 'Hand wash cold, no bleach, lay flat.' Skipping this step can lead to accidental damage.
2. Hand Wash in Cold Water: Use a gentle detergent and cold water. Gently swish, never scrub or wring. Hot water and harsh detergents break down elastic and fade colors.
3. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse in cold water until no soap remains. Press out excess water with a towel. Leftover detergent can irritate skin and attract dirt.
4. Dry Flat: Reshape the garment and lay it flat on a dry towel. Avoid hanging and direct sunlight. Hanging can stretch the fabric, and sunlight can cause fading.
5. Store Properly: Fold bras and delicate items, or hang on padded hangers. Keep in a cool, dry place. Proper storage prevents misshaping and extends the life of your lingerie.

Products That Love Extra Care

• Delicious with Lace Wrap Bralette: 90% Microfiber Nylon, 10% Lycra. Hand wash cold, no bleach, lay flat. Made in NYC. This everyday bralette's lace trim and stretchy fabric need gentle handling to keep their shape and softness.
• Venice Low Back Chemise: 100% Rayon Modal. Hand wash cold, no bleach, line dry. Made in NYC. The breathable, natural cellulose fabric is delicate and benefits from hand washing and line drying to avoid shrinkage.

With these simple steps, you can keep your delicate lingerie beautiful and long-lasting. Treat your pieces with care, and they'll continue to provide comfort and confidence wear after wear. For more tips and to explore our collection, visit Only Hearts.