Bra Care Guide
Well-designed, perfectly fitting lingerie is something to be cherished — and with the right care, it can last and last. At Triumph, our lingerie is crafted to the highest quality standards, so it not only looks and feels great, but also supports you over time.
This guide covers everything you need to know: how to wash and store your bras properly, when to replace them, and how to find your perfect fit. Take care of your lingerie, and it will take care of you.
Washing
- Wash every 3–4 wears (or sooner if sweaty).
- Follow the care label for fabric-specific guidance.
- Wash whites, brights, and darks separately. Wash new dark items alone to prevent bleeding.
- Use a gentle detergent for delicates — avoid harsh chemicals and brighteners.
- All Triumph & Sloggi Bras should be hand washed. Use lukewarm water and gently press out moisture (never wring or soak).
- Only our range of crop tops, loungewear, and underwear may be machined washed. Use a delicate cycle with cool water, and place items in a washbag for protection.
Different materials need specific care—check the label for best results. When unsure, hand wash and air dry. Avoid bleach, tumble drying, ironing, and dry cleaning unless stated otherwise.
Bra Care By Material
- Lace/Mesh: These delicate fabrics should be hand washed and air dried to prevent snags, stretching, or damage.
- Cotton Underwear: A durable and breathable fabric. Use a gentle machine wash cycle and air dry for best results.
- Wired Bras: To preserve the shape and integrity of the wire, avoid machine washing. Hand wash gently and reshape while drying.
- Moulded Cups: Maintain their structure by hand washing only. Lay flat or hang to dry — never wring or fold.
- Sports Bras: Hand washing is recommended to preserve shape and elasticity.
- Sloggi Garments: These garments can be machine washed in a wash bag, using a delicate cycle and cool water.
using a washbag
Machine washing is only suitable for crop tops, loungewear, and underwear. For added protection, we recommend placing these items in one of our Triumph delicates wash bags.
Use a gentle cycle with cool water and avoid overfilling the wash bag to prevent tangling, snagging, and distortion.
drying & storing
- Avoid heat exposure — it damages delicate fabrics and elastane.
- Never tumble dry. Air dry flat or hang by the center (not the straps) to prevent stretching.
- Store moulded bras flat with the clasp fastened to maintain shape.
- Stack bras cup-to-cup to preserve structure and support — never fold cups into each other.
- For padded bras, hang with clip or padded hangers, secured at the center to avoid distortion.
longevity & replacement
You should replace your bras every 6 to 12 months, depending on how often you wear and rotate them.
Keep 3–4 everyday bras in rotation to extend their lifespan. Replace when you notice worn seams, stretched straps, poking underwires, or changes in fit and comfort.
Build Your Bra Wardrobe
Why the perfect fit matters
- A properly fitting bra offers better support, comfort, and posture - reducing strain on your shoulders, back and breast tissue.
- Ill-fitting bras can cause discomfort, affect how clothes fit, and even shorten the lifespan of the bra itself.
- Not sure of your size? Use our Bra Size Calculator.
- Prefer expert help? Visit us in-store for a personalised fitting with one of our bra specialists.
FAQs
How long should you soak bras when handwashing?
It is recommended that you soak your lingerie for 10 to 15 minutes in lukewarm water with gentle detergent. This duration effectively cleans without damaging the fabric and elastic. Avoid soaking for longer than 30 minutes to preserve the bras shape and longevity.
What is the best detergent for washing your lingerie?
Choose a gentle detergent that does not contain alcohol, bleach, or harsh chemicals. Look for products labeled “for delicates” to ensure softness and proper fabric care.
Why do my bras get damaged in the wash?
Bras often get damaged in the wash due to machine washing on a heavy cycle, using hot water, or harsh detergents. The agitation and heat can weaken the elastic, stretch fabrics, and cause underwire distortion. Washing lingerie without a lingerie bag or soaking them too long can also lead to damage. To protect your bras, hand wash with gentle detergent, soak for 10-15 minutes, and air-dry flat.
Should I remove bra pads before washing my lingerie?
It's best to remove removable bra pads before washing to help them keep their shape and prevent damage. Washing pads separately or by hand prevents them from losing their shape and last longer.
How many bras should you own?
Having 3–4 bras allows for rotation, minimizing wear and tear, and helping maintain elasticity.
Is it okay to put bras in the washing machine?
Bras should always be hand washed to preserve their shape, support, and elasticity. Machine washing—even on gentle cycles—can cause damage to the fabric, wiring, and elastic. Avoid hot water, harsh detergents, and washing with heavy items, as these can all compromise the garment’s quality and lifespan.
Why does my bra have creases in it?
Bras get creases when they're not stored properly—like folding the cups or squishing them in a drawer. Store bras flat or hang them to keep their shape.
Why do underwires poke out - and can I fix it?
Underwires often poke out due to overwear, improper care, or wearing the wrong size. If the bra is stretched or damaged, it’s usually a sign it’s time to replace it.