The truth is: how you care for your underwear matters. A lot.
At Understatement, we design lingerie that’s made to last - but its lifespan depends just as much on how you treat it as how we make it. The way you wash, wear, and store your favourite bra or pair of knickers affects not only its longevity, but also its environmental footprint.
The good news? A few small changes to your laundry routine can keep your Understatements looking and feeling amazing - for longer.
Why Care Matters
Throughout a garment’s lifetime, most of its environmental impact comes from the use phase - that means everything you do after buying it: how often you wash it, what temperature you use, and whether you tumble dry or not.
By caring mindfully for your underwear, you:
-
Extend its lifespan
-
Reduce textile waste
-
Save energy and water
-
Help the planet breathe a little easier
And honestly? It feels pretty good to know your favourite bra is still going strong after dozens of wears.
Wash Less, Wear More
It might sound counterintuitive, but bras don’t need to be washed after every wear (unless you’ve been sweating heavily). Letting your bras rest between wears helps the elastic recover - and keeps them in shape longer.
Our tip: Keep your favourites on rotation. That way, every piece gets a break, and you always have a fresh one ready to go.
Always Use a Wash Bag
A mesh wash bag is a game changer - and not just for your delicates. It protects the fabric from rubbing against zippers, hooks, and other garments, reducing wear and tear in every cycle.
-
Keeps elasticity intact
-
Prevents snagging and stretching
-
Protects delicate lace and mesh
-
Extends the life of bras, knickers, and period underwear
If you're not using one yet - trust us, you'll never go back.
Low Temps, High Impact
All of our underwear, including period panties, can be machine washed at 30°C / 86°F. Lower temperatures are gentler on fabrics and save energy - good for your clothes, your wallet, and the environment.
Avoid these fabric enemies:
-
Bleach - it breaks down fibres and damages delicate materials
-
Fabric softeners - they can leave residue and reduce breathability
-
High heat - skip the tumble dryer and ironing board. Heat weakens elastic and ages your lingerie way before its time
Instead, air-dry your pieces flat or on a drying rack. Your bras will thank you.
Special Care: Swimwear & Period Underwear
Swimwear
Salt, sun, and chlorine are not your bikini’s BFFs. Rinse your swimwear in cold water after every dip to remove residue and prevent fading. Avoid wringing or hanging it by the straps - this can distort the shape over time.
Period Underwear
Yes, you can toss them in the wash - no pre-rinse needed. Wash at 30°C with similar colours and use a wash bag. Skip the bleach, tumble dryer, and dry cleaning. Treat them like any other technical garment with superpowers.
Signs It’s Time to Say Goodbye
We design Understatements to last - but even the best-loved pieces have their limits. Trust your gut (and your elastics):
-
If the band feels loose
-
The fabric is stretched out
-
Or it just doesn’t support like it used to
It might be time for a fresh start. The silver lining? You get to meet your next favourite.
Quick Recap: 5 Tips for Lingerie That Lasts
-
Use a mesh wash bag - it's a little thing that makes a big difference
-
Wash at 30°C / 86°F - cold is kind
-
Avoid bleach, fabric softener, and high heat - think gentle, always
-
Rotate your bras - rest days are real
-
Air dry - your elastics will live longer for it
Small Habits, Big Impact
Caring for your underwear is more than just a laundry list. It’s a mindful habit that respects your lingerie, your money, and the planet. Whether it’s your everyday bralette or your go-to highwaist knickers, a little care goes a long way.
Want to stock up on the essentials?
Shop our full collection - and don’t forget to grab a wash bag for your next laundry day.
