How to Properly Wash and Care for Your Sports Bra

Your sports bra gives you the essential support you need to run, hop, and jump, so you can focus on your day. But as you reach your fitness goals, every workout will leave your sports bra sweaty and in need of a good wash.

Like other functional sportswear, sports bras require special care. If you want it to continue to provide support and lift when you first wear it, you need to know how to wash it properly.

Follow these laundry tips to extend the life of your bra and keep it clean and smelling fresh.

Washing your sports bra after every workout can reduce bad odors, but even if your sports bra doesn't smell, it should still be washed after every use.

Throwing sports bras back into the drawer can cause bacteria, fungus, and yeast to build up in the fibers of the bra. The area under the breasts is particularly susceptible to yeast infections. If you don't clean your sports bra regularly, you may also develop rashes, acne, bacterial infections, or nipple abrasions.

So take off your sports bra right after your workout and wash it immediately or hang it to air dry until laundry day.

Hand washing is the best way to extend the life of your sports bra. It's also more environmentally friendly than machine washing.

Avoid regular detergents and opt for a mild hand soap, laundry soap or shampoo. Regular detergent is difficult to remove from clothing when hand-washed, and detergent residue can build up in the fibers of a sports bra and cause odor.

You'll want to soak your sports bra in soapy water for about 20 to 30 minutes and then gently scrub the fabric with your hands. Once done, drain the sink and refill it with cold water until all the soap is rinsed away.

If you want to wash your sports bra in the washing machine, follow these steps:

- Fasten the clasps on your sports bra.

- If your sports bra has removable padding, remove it and hand wash it.

- Place your sports bra in a lingerie bag (or garment bag), especially if you are machine-washing it with other items.

- Please follow the care instructions on the label. If the tag is missing, choose a delicate cycle with warm or hot water.

- Use regular detergent or a detergent designed for high-performance fabrics. Avoid using too much detergent.

Synthetic moisture-wicking clothing is great for keeping you cool, dry, and comfortable, but not conducive to the use of fabric softener.

Fabric softener can clog the fibers of a sports bra, allowing sweat and dirt to trap instead of being washed away. What's more, they prevent the fabric from serving its intended purpose, which is to breathe and wick moisture away from the skin.

Avoid using fabric softeners or dryer sheets and instead opt for fabric enhancers designed for functional clothing.

Avoid using the dryer, especially at high temperatures. The dryer can stretch the fabric and elastic on your sports bra, making it less supportive and even changing the fit. Luckily, sports bras are designed to dry quickly.

Place them on a towel and place them on a counter or flat surface to air dry. Alternatively, hang them on a drying rack.

Try to avoid hanging your sports bra by the straps, which can cause the straps to stretch.

Even with proper care, your sports bra will wear out over time and provide less support when you hit the gym. Watch for signs that it's time to replace your old sports bra, such as:

- The straps are stretched and do not provide adequate support.

- When you lift your arms, the straps slide or the bra rises.

- Pilling in some areas or the fabric looking worn.

- Bruises from wristbands or straps.

- The bra is stained or smells after washing.

With proper care of your sports bras, you can expect them to last about a year of normal wear. When it's time to buy a new one, make sure it has the right fit and support, and choose materials that will keep you cool and dry.

Cotton: Cotton sports bras are breathable and comfortable, making them ideal for low-impact activities. To care for your cotton bra, machine wash in cold water with mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener as they can weaken the fabric and shorten its lifespan. Air dry your cotton bra to prevent shrinkage and maintain its shape.

Synthetic Fabrics (Polyester, Nylon, Spandex): Synthetic fabrics are often used in sports bras because they wick moisture away from the skin and provide excellent stretch and support. To care for your synthetic bra, machine wash in cold water on a gentle cycle. Avoid using fabric softeners as they can leave a residue that affects the fabric's moisture-wicking properties. Air dry or tumble dry on low heat to prevent damage to the elastic fibers.

Mesh: Many sports bras feature mesh panels for added breathability and ventilation. Mesh fabric is fragile, so it's best to hand wash it in cold water with a mild detergent. Gently squeeze out excess water and avoid wringing or twisting the fabric as this can stretch or damage the mesh. Lay your mesh bra flat to dry, away from direct heat or sunlight.

Compression Fabric: Compression sports bras are designed to provide maximum support and minimize movement during high-intensity activities. To care for your compression bra, machine wash in cold water on a gentle cycle. Use mild detergent and avoid using bleach or fabric softener. Air dry or tumble dry on low heat to maintain the fabric's compression properties and elasticity.

Moisture-wicking Fabric: Moisture-wicking fabric is specially designed to wick sweat away from your skin, keeping you dry and comfortable during your workout. To care for your moisture-wicking bra, machine wash in cold water with mild detergent. Avoid using fabric softeners or dryer sheets as they can interfere with the fabric's moisture-wicking properties. Air dry or tumble dry on low heat to maintain fabric performance.

By following these special considerations for different sports bra fabric types, you can ensure that your bra stays comfortable and supportive, and looks its best for all your active pursuits.

Properly washing and caring for your sports bra is essential to maintaining its performance, comfort, and longevity. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your sports bra continues to support you through countless workouts and adventures. If you want to know more about sports bras, or if you want to order a sports bra, please contact us.

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