How To Wash Lingerie In 4 Easy Steps
An Easy Guide To Washing your Lingerie The Right Way.
(This post was originally published on Feb 20th 2016 and updated on May 19th 2026)
Your lingerie works hard - and how you wash it determines how long it stays beautiful. One wrong cycle, the wrong water temperature, or skipping a mesh laundry bag can mean stretched underwire, faded lace, and elastic that's lost its hold. The good news? Learning how to wash lingerie properly takes less than five minutes to master.
At Olyinka Lingerie, we design every piece in exquisite fabrics - silk, chiffon, and organic cotton - and we want them to last. The golden rules are simple: cool water, a gentle delicates detergent or specialty lingerie detergent, a laundry bag if you're using the machine, and always air drying flat rather than tumble drying or leaving pieces to hang to dry on a radiator. Follow these four steps and your lingerie will stay soft, supportive, and beautiful for years.
How to Wash Lingerie:
Hand-wash with cool water and a gentle detergent
Soak for 30 minutes, then rinse gently
Use a mesh laundry bag for machine washing (delicate cycle only)
Air dry flat - never use a tumble dryer
Store properly in a lingerie drawer to maintain shape
Image: Olyinka Magazine
How Do You Hand Wash Lingerie?
Hand-washing is the best method for preserving the shape, softness, and elasticity of your lingerie. Follow these steps for a perfect clean:
Fill a bowl or a clean sink with cool water and a gentle lingerie detergent (avoid harsh chemicals).
Soak your lingerie for at least 30 minutes to lift dirt and oils.
Gently wash and rinse without wringing or twisting, as this can damage delicate fabrics.
Pro Tip: Use a lingerie-specific detergent for optimal fabric care. Check out our guide: Top 5 Best Lingerie Detergents.
Avoid: Hot water (can weaken elastic fibers) and cold water (won’t activate detergent effectively).
Can You Wash Lingerie in the Washing Machine?
If hand-washing isn’t an option, you can use a washing machine, but with caution:
Always place lingerie in a mesh laundry bag before it goes anywhere near the drum - this prevents snagging, stretching, and tangling with other items.
Select a delicate cycle with cool or lukewarm water to protect elastic fibres and delicate fabrics.
Use a mild liquid detergent (avoid fabric softeners or bleach).
Always check the care tag! If your lingerie is not machine-washable, stick to hand-washing.
How Should You Dry Lingerie?
To maintain the quality and longevity of your delicate garments, follow these steps:
Lay lingerie flat on a towel or a drying rack to air dry.
Avoid hanging delicate fabrics, as this can stretch them out.
Never tumble dry - heat can shrink or damage delicate materials.
Outdoor drying? Place your lingerie in a shaded area to prevent sun damage.
Image: Olyinka Magazine
How Should You Store Lingerie?
Proper storage keeps lingerie fresh and maintains its shape:
Fold or lay items flat in a dedicated lingerie drawer.
Avoid overcrowding to prevent fabric distortion.
Periodically spring clean your lingerie drawer - here’s how How To Spring Clean Your Lingerie Drawer
FAQs About Washing Lingerie
Q: What detergent should I use for lingerie?
A: Use a gentle, lingerie-safe detergent - avoid bleach and fabric softeners.
Q: Can I wash lingerie with regular clothes?
A: No, lingerie should be washed separately in a mesh bag to prevent damage.
Q: How often should I wash my bras?
A: Ideally, after every 2-3 wears to maintain freshness and elasticity.
Final Thoughts
Caring for your lingerie effectively keeps it beautiful, soft, and supportive for years to come. Follow these four straightforward steps to ensure its quality and longevity. For additional expert lingerie care insights, stay connected with us and subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive updates!
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Would you like more care tips tailored to specific fabrics? Let us know in the comments!
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