We've all been there – standing in front of our laundry basket, holding up that lacy, delicate piece of lingerie, and wondering, “How on earth do I wash this without ruining it?” 

Keep reading for the ultimate guide on how to wash lingerie, tights, and all those delicates you love so much.

Why Proper Lingerie Care Matters

First things first, let's talk about why you should be washing your delicates with tender love and care. They’re more than just pieces of fabric; they’re intricate, delicate, and often expensive. Plus, your lingerie is the closest thing to your skin, and treating them well ensures they treat your skin well in return.

Golden Rules When Washing Lingerie:

1. Hand Wash is the Best Wash

While it might seem tedious, hand washing is the most gentle and recommended method. Fill a basin with cool water and add a mild detergent, then swirl the water to create suds. After that, gently submerge your lingerie and let it soak for about 10 minutes. Gently rub the fabric against itself to remove any dirt or oils. Rinse thoroughly with cool water.

2. Machine Wash – Only If You Must

If you're really pressed for time and must use a machine, ensure you're using a mesh lingerie bag. Here's a crucial step: make sure the clasps are fastened before placing your lingerie inside the bag. This prevents the hooks from snagging onto other items or the lingerie itself. Remember to always opt for the delicate cycle with cold water too. Also, avoid using heavy detergents or fabric softeners, as these can break down the fibers over time.

3. Dry with Care

Never – and we mean NEVER – twist or wring out your lingerie. This can misshape or stretch the fabric. Instead, gently press the water out and lay the lingerie flat on a towel. Roll the towel with the lingerie inside, pressing gently to remove excess water. Unroll, reshape, and lay flat to dry.

Specific Care for Specific Lingerie

Keep your delicates in tip top shape with these best practices:

Bras

• Padded and Molded Bras: Always reshape the cups before drying. This prevents creases and retains the shape.
• Underwired Bras: Ensure the wire is not poking out. If it is, avoid washing as it can damage other items. Fix the wire first.
• Sports Bras: These can attract more sweat. That being said, ensure you rinse them out post a workout if you aren’t washing them immediately.
• Lace and Embroidered Bras: These beauties need gentle hand-washing, as the machine can be a bit too rough on them.

Panties

• Cotton Panties: While durable, always use cold water to retain the elasticity and color.
• Lace or Mesh Panties: Hand wash and never wring them. Dry them flat to retain shape.
• Silk Panties: These require cold water hand-washing. Avoid any strong detergent.

Shapewear

• They are your body's close friends. Wash after every use to remove body oils and extend its life.
• Always hand wash. The fibers in shapewear can break down with the machine's aggressive spinning.

Tights

Sheer Tights: Always hand wash, as the material tends to snag and run easily in machines.

Opaque and Wool Tights: These can handle a gentle machine cycle inside a mesh bag.

Fishnets: Hand wash these to avoid the mesh from stretching out or getting hooked.

Battling Stains on Lingerie

Accidents happen. For stubborn stains:

• Spot Treat: Use a gentle detergent or stain remover. Gently dab, don’t rub.
• Soak: Before washing, let the piece soak in cold water with a mild detergent.
• Cold Water: Always! Hot water can set stains.

Pro Tips for the Lingerie Aficionado:

• Use a Lingerie-Specific Detergent: These are milder and designed to clean without damaging delicate fabrics.
• Avoid Bleach: It can degrade the fabric and reduce the lifespan of your delicates.
• Rotate Your Lingerie: This will ensure even wear and tear. Plus, it's an excuse to buy more gorgeous pieces from Petite Cherry (wink!).

In Conclusion

Your lingerie is not just about looking and feeling good; it's an investment. By learning how to wash lingerie and other delicates correctly, you ensure they last longer and stay as beautiful as the day you bought them.

So, the next time you're about to toss that lacy bra into the washing machine with your jeans, stop and remember this guide. Your lingerie will thank you!

We hope this guide is the savior your lingerie drawer needed. Remember, when you take care of your delicates, they take care of you. Until next time!