Can you machine-wash underwear and bras?

Quick answer: cotton underwear is usually fine in the machine in a mesh bag on a gentle cycle, washed separately from heavily soiled clothes. Underwired, padded and lace bras are better hand-washed to keep their shape. Either way, rinse well and dry completely somewhere airy.

What can go in the machine?

Item	How to wash
Cotton and jersey underwear	Machine, mesh bag, gentle cycle
Wire-free bras, sports bras	Machine in a framed mesh bag, or by hand
Underwired, moulded bras	Hand wash
Lace and silk	Hand wash

Always check the care label first.

Machine washing properly

1. Fasten bra hooks so they don’t snag other items.
2. Put items in a mesh bag, without overfilling it.
3. Wash separately from jeans, workwear and items with metal zips.
4. Choose a gentle cycle with cool or moderately warm water as the label allows.
5. Use a moderate amount of detergent and rinse well.

Hand washing

1. Dissolve detergent in a basin of cool water.
2. Soak for about 10 minutes and squeeze gently; don’t twist.
3. Rinse thoroughly 2–3 times.
4. Press out water with a dry towel rather than wringing.

Drying

• Dry somewhere airy; gentle sunlight is a bonus.
• Don’t dry in a closed bathroom, where slow drying leads to a damp smell.
• Dry bras flat or hung from the centre, not by the straps, to avoid stretching.
• Store only when fully dry.

Which detergent?

Choose a liquid detergent that dissolves and rinses easily, works for hand and machine washing, and use a moderate amount for small loads. For example, SPY Ultra Clean washes and softens in one step, for both hand and machine washing. When hand-washing a small basin, use less than the dose on the pack.

---

Read more: Can you hand-wash with machine detergent?