Caring for your lingerie is primarily about having good habits when it comes to washing. Whether it's to preserve delicate lace or to ensure fabrics retain their suppleness, a few simple steps can extend the life of your favorite pieces.
Here are my dressmaker's tips for making your lingerie last as long as possible.
Hand washing: the ideal method
This is the best option for preserving delicate fibers and elasticity.
- The method: Use lukewarm water (not hot!) with a little mild detergent or Marseille soap.
- The action: Let soak for a few minutes, gently press the fabric without rubbing hard or twisting the fibers.
- Rinsing: Rinse with clear, cold water to properly close the fibers.
Washing machine: the three golden rules
If you don't have time for hand washing, the machine is possible provided you follow these precautions:
- Washing net: Essential. It prevents lace from snagging on the drum or zippers of other clothes.
- Delicate cycle: Use a "delicate" or "hand wash" program at a maximum of 30°C. Heat is the number one enemy of fibers.
- No fabric softener: Absolutely avoid fabric softeners. They leave a greasy film on elastane which eventually "smothers" the fiber and causes it to lose its elasticity. Your lingerie would stretch out much faster.
Drying: shun the dryer
This is the most critical step. The dryer is to be banned because its heat literally burns elastane, which makes elastics brittle.
- Flat or on a line: Lay your pieces flat on a dry towel or on a clothesline, away from direct sunlight (which dulls colors).
- No harsh wringing: Never twist your lingerie to extract water. Gently press it in a clean towel to absorb the excess.
Letting your lingerie breathe
A little secret from the workshop: avoid wearing the same set two days in a row. By letting the elastic rest for 24 hours, it has time to return to its original shape. This is a simple trick that can double the lifespan of your bras and panties.
By adopting these few habits, you treat your clothes with the care they deserve and ensure they remain comfortable and impeccable for many years to come!
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