Let’s be honest — bras are an investment. And when you’ve taken the time to find one that actually fits, feels great, and supports you properly, the last thing you want is to ruin it in the wash. The good news? A few simple habits can dramatically extend the life of your bras — no hand-washing anxiety or complicated routines required.
Here’s your practical guide to keeping your lingerie looking and feeling its best, featuring expert tips straight from the DeBra’s fitting rooms.
How to Increase Longevity of Your Bras
1. Rotate, Don’t Repeat
Wearing the same bra two days in a row? Guilty as charged — but it’s not doing your bra any favours.
Fitters Say: “Give each bra at least 24 hours to rest between wears. This lets the elastic bounce back and helps prevent premature stretching.”
Keep 3–5 bras in regular rotation so no single style bears the brunt of daily wear.
2. Yes, How You Wash It Really Matters
Machine-washing might be tempting, but your delicates need a gentler touch. The heat, friction, and aggressive spin cycles can break down elastic, damage underwires, and distort cup shape.
Pro Tip: If you must machine-wash, use a lingerie bag, fasten the hooks, and wash on a cold, delicate cycle with a gentle detergent.
Better still? Hand-washing with lukewarm water and a gentle detergent extends the lifespan dramatically. (Our Bra Care Guide shows you how step-by-step.)
3. Avoid the Dryer at All Costs
Heat is the fast track to saggy bands and warped cups. Always lay your bras flat or drape them over a drying rack away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
Fitters Say: “If you do nothing else, just skip the dryer. That one change alone can double the life of your bra.”
4. Store Smart
Tossing bras into a drawer where they’re crushed and twisted? That’s a shortcut to misshapen cups.
Store Tip: Stack moulded or padded bras one behind the other (like how they sit in-store) to maintain their shape. Avoid folding one cup into the other — this damages the structure over time.
5. Know When It’s Time to Let Go
Even with perfect care, bras don’t last forever. If the band is riding up, straps are slipping, or you’re tightening it to the last hook — it’s time for a replacement.
Fitter FAQ: “Most everyday bras last around 6–12 months depending on wear. If you're unsure, bring it in for a quick check — we'll let you know if it's time for a refresh.”
6. A Good Fit Helps Bras Last Longer
Surprise! Wearing the right size not only makes you more comfortable, it also extends the life of your bra. A well-fitted bra distributes weight evenly, reducing stress on fabric, straps and underwire.
Fit First: If it’s been more than 6–12 months since your last fitting, or your body has changed, it’s worth booking a free virtual or in-store fitting to make sure you’re getting the best support — and the best value from your bras.
Need help?
Let's get you fitted…. DeBra's offers a free In-store Fitting Service, Virtual (Zoom) Fitting, phone consultations or support on live chat, so you can stay at home and still get the best advice for your body. Don't let sizing uncertainty stop you from feeling confident.
Book your complimentary In-Store Fitting Appointment or a Virtual Fitting Appointment, or if you have a question, you can contact our customer service team during business hours through Live Chat, which can be found in the bottom right hand corner of the website.
