Let’s face it, ladies—bras can be a real hassle. The discomfort of wearing them often outweighs the benefits, and washing them? Well, that’s just another chore we’d rather skip. One spin in the washing machine, and suddenly that beautiful lace number we splurged on looks like something your grandmother would use as a dust rag, complete with frayed edges and exposed underwire.
But here’s some refreshing news: you can finally stop feeling guilty about how often you wash your bras! According to recent insights shared by Laura Finch, a textile expert at the Good Housekeeping Institute, bras only need to be washed after being worn several times. Yes, you read that right—several! While “several” may be an ambiguous term, it does provide a sense of relief that we’re not failing at our laundry duties.
Let’s be real; many of us have been following this “several times” guideline instinctively. We’re all juggling busy lives, and the last thing we want to do is deal with the hassle of bra maintenance. Plus, when we finally liberate ourselves from those constricting straps, it’s easy to forget all about tossing them in the wash.
Admittedly, we didn’t necessarily need this revelation, but it’s a relief not to add another chore to our already overflowing plates. I, for one, am not cleaning my floors every day, dusting the blinds monthly, or even considering vacuuming the mattress. And let’s just say my bras are on a much more flexible washing schedule—somewhere between every five days and maybe six weeks.
What unites us in our shared bra struggle is the love-hate relationship we have with these undergarments. They lift and support, making us feel confident, yet they can also dig into our sides and create discomfort. And don’t even get me started on the price tag—bra shopping can feel like a second mortgage.
Now, while it’s great to have a little less guilt about our laundry habits, we do have to acknowledge some expert advice. Dr. Ryan Mitchell, a renowned physician, suggests that if you’re sweating a lot—like from your armpits—the daily washing rule still applies. Because, of course, we’re all busy but not gross!
In terms of care, Laura recommends using a mesh bag during washing to protect the fabric and laying them flat to dry. But honestly, that might be pushing it a bit.
So here’s to less laundry guilt and more time enjoying life! If you’re curious about other helpful tips for your journey, check out our post on Cervical Insemination. And for those interested in home insemination, Make a Mom has some excellent at-home insemination kits. Additionally, for more information on pregnancy and home insemination, visit Johns Hopkins Medicine.
To sum it up, there’s no need to feel guilty about skipping bra washes. Embrace the ambiguity of “several wears” and enjoy life a little more—your wardrobe will thank you!