How often you need to wash your bra and the right way to do it
We all (hopefully) know that underwear needs washing after every wear but it's not such a clear cut rule when it comes to bras.
There are more than 30,000 Google searches each year asking how often bras need washing, which makes sense given people aren't washing them enough.
According to research from lingerie brand Pour Moi, 45 per cent of people who wear bras wash them once every three weeks, while 18 per cent clean them every other week.
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Bras should be washed more often than every other week. Getty
The reason for the confusion is that the frequency depends on how many days in a row a bra is worn, whether you were on the go or exercising and got sweaty, shower frequently and if you wear fake tan and/or body lotion.
Pour Moi has a handy 'clean bra calculator' to help you figure out exactly how often you need to wash your bras based on your lifestyle.
But the brand's bra expert Emma Woodrow has a simple tip for knowing when your bra needs washing.
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Washing by hand is the best way to keep bras in top condition. Getty
"As a general rule, bras should be washed every three wears to ensure the cleanliness of your garments, without over washing and compromising the integrity of your items," she said.
With that settled, the way you wash bras is important. If using a washing machine you'll need to pop them in a delicates bag to keep them in good condition.
However, the bra experts recommended hand-washing your bras using cool water and mild detergent.
Before you put your bra in the water make sure the clasps are fastened, then pop them in and swirl them around.
Leave them to soak for 10 minutes and when that time is up rinse in cold water.
Bras shouldn't be hung from the straps. Getty
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To get rid of excess water gently squeeze the bra instead of twisting and wringing them which can cause damage.
Use the towel hack to help remove even more water by laying the bra on a towel and then roll up the towel.
Reshape the bra before line drying, but without pegging it from the straps as this can lead to stretching.
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