Fabrics and Care
Fabric affects how lingerie feels, stretches and fits into your daily routine. Understanding materials helps you choose comfortable pieces, while careful washing and storage help preserve their shape, softness and delicate details.
Compare Common Lingerie Materials
| Material | Feel and benefits | Care considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton | Soft and absorbent; a practical option for everyday underwear. | Can shrink, so follow washing and drying limits. |
| Silk | Lightweight and smooth, with a natural sheen. | Choose silk-suitable detergent and wash only if the label permits. |
| Modal | Soft with a fluid drape, often used in briefs and sleepwear. | Handle gently when wet and check drying instructions. |
| Nylon and polyester | Often lightweight, durable and quick to dry. | Blends, padding and trims can require gentler treatment. |
| Elastane | Adds stretch, helping garments move with your body. | Excessive heat can weaken elasticity. |
Lace and satin describe fabric structures rather than fibre content. Satin may be silk or polyester, while lace can contain several fibres. Check the composition label instead of judging care needs by appearance alone.
Let the Care Label Lead
Care instructions apply to the complete garment, including elastic, cups, embroidery and fastenings.
The number inside a wash-tub symbol indicates the maximum washing temperature. Bars underneath call for gentler treatment, while a crossed-out symbol prohibits that process. GINETEX’s care-symbol guide explains washing, bleaching, drying, ironing and professional cleaning symbols.
If the label is missing or unclear, ask the retailer or manufacturer before choosing a cleaning method.
Wash Gently and Thoroughly
Hand Washing
When hand washing is permitted, use water within the labelled temperature limit and detergent suitable for the fabric. Follow the detergent’s dosing instructions.
Gently move the garment through the water without scrubbing, stretching or wringing. Rinse thoroughly, then carefully remove excess water. The American Cleaning Institute’s guidance for fine fabrics recommends avoiding rubbing silk and using a towel to absorb moisture after rinsing.
Machine Washing
Machine-wash only when the label allows it. Fasten bra hooks, place delicate pieces in a mesh lingerie bag and select the permitted programme and temperature. Wash similar colours together, keeping lingerie away from heavy garments and exposed zips that could snag fabric.
Dry and Store with Care
Follow the drying instructions: some garments need to lie flat, while others can be line-dried. Reshape cups gently while damp. Tumble-dry only when permitted, using the specified setting.
Let everything dry completely before putting it away. Store moulded bras with their cups supported, avoiding folding one cup inside the other. Fold briefs and camisoles loosely, and keep lace away from exposed hooks or rough drawer surfaces.