Not everything can be tossed in the laundry along with t-shirts, sweatpants, and hoodies. Some items–like bras for tweens–are delicate garments that need a little extra love and attention to make sure they have a long life for your daughter.
Regular washing with the wrong detergent or using high heat can ruin a bra’s materials, leading to stretched out straps, messed up cups, or worn-out elastic. When throwing a bra in the laundry, it’s best to use a delicate detergent free from chemicals that could ruin the bra.
Using the Right Detergent
If you want to keep your daughter’s bra in good shape, you’ll need to take good care of it. Regular detergents probably won’t cut it, because they can be too harsh on something as delicate as a bra. Instead, try a gentle detergent made for fragile items. This will help keep her bra in better condition over time.
Now for the next question: is fabric softener bad for bras? We’d recommend skipping it. Using fabric softener can overstretch the bra and ruin the elastic, which is not good for support! Instead, you could try adding a little white vinegar to the wash. This can soften the fabric without damaging the bra.
Washing for Sensitive Skin
If your daughter has sensitive skin, you may need to go the extra mile when washing her bras. Look for a detergent that is gentle, hypoallergenic, and free from any dyes or strong smells. Detergents with these ingredients can mess with her skin, risking rashes or breakouts.
To keep things extra safe, look for products labeled 'sensitive skin' or 'dermatologist-tested' to ensure her undergarments stay soft, clean, and irritation-free.
Different Fabrics, Different Detergents
Different fabrics used in bras require different types of care, and choosing the right detergent for each fabric is key to keeping them in good shape. For example, bras made from fabrics like lace or silk need a gentler, non-abrasive detergent to prevent damage. Sports bras, however, can benefit from a detergent that helps preserve their elasticity and breathability, keeping them in tip-top shape for high-activity days.
So, before you do a load of laundry, ask yourself what type of detergent would be best for the bra you’re washing. This way, you can take good care of it and make it last!
Handwashing Versus Machine Washing
Handwashing is always the gentlest option for washing bras. It lets you be more careful and reduces the risk of ruining the bra. So, how do you handwash?
- Fill a small tub or bucket with cool water.
- Add a delicate detergent.
- Gently rub the fabric together to clean.
- Lay the bra out to airdry.
Short on time? We know how busy life can be, especially with an active teenager! You can still machine-wash bras, but if you opt for that direction, consider placing the bras in a mesh laundry bag on a gentle cycle with cold water. This will protect the bra from getting stretched out or tangled with other items.
No matter what you choose, either option will get the job done. It all depends on what your schedule allows.
Why Yellowberry?
Caring for your daughter’s bras starts when you shop. Choosing high-quality bras, like those from Yellowberry, sets the foundation for longevity and comfort.
Our bras are designed to handle the active, social lifestyle of teens and tweens–built to last through regular washing and everyday wear. When you invest in quality, you’re not only making sure your daughter’s bra fits well, you’re giving her the support she needs, day after day!