How to Wash and Care for Lace Lingerie

Lace is one of the most delicate fabrics in your drawer. It can last for years with a little care, but rough washing and hot dryers can stretch, snag or fade it fast. Here's a simple routine to keep your lace sets looking their best.

Always check the care label first

Lace pieces are often a mix of fibres, like nylon or polyester lace, elastane, and sometimes cotton linings. The care label on your garment is the best guide, so read it before you wash. The tips below are general advice for delicate lace.

Hand washing (the gentlest option)

  1. Fill a clean basin with cool or lukewarm water. Hot water can weaken elastic and cause colours to run.
  2. Add a small amount of mild detergent made for delicates.
  3. Fasten all bra hooks so they can't catch on the lace.
  4. Submerge the pieces and gently swish them for a few minutes. Don't scrub or twist.
  5. Rinse in clean cool water until no suds remain.
  6. Press out the water gently. Lay each piece flat on a towel, roll the towel up and press to absorb more moisture.

Machine washing (if the label allows it)

  • Fasten hooks and place each piece in a mesh lingerie bag.
  • Use the delicate or hand-wash cycle with cold water.
  • Wash with similar colours and avoid heavy items like jeans or towels.
  • Skip fabric softener, which can build up on elastic and lace.

Drying

Never tumble dry lace lingerie. The heat can shrink elastic and distort underwire cups. Lay pieces flat or hang bras over a drying rack by the centre (not the straps), away from direct sunlight and heaters.

Washing new, dark or brightly coloured lace

Deep shades like black, wine red or claret can release some dye in the first few washes. Wash them separately the first time.

Storing your lace sets

  • Store bras with cups nested or laid flat rather than folded in half, so moulded cups keep their shape.
  • Keep matching sets together in a drawer divider or soft pouch.
  • Keep lace away from rough fabrics and zips that could snag it.

Rotate what you wear

Giving a bra a day or two off between wears lets the elastic recover, which helps it keep its fit for longer.

Quick care checklist

  • Cool water and mild detergent
  • Hooks fastened, mesh bag if machine washing
  • No wringing, no tumble dryer, no softener
  • Dry flat, out of direct heat

Looking for a new set? Browse our lace lingerie sets, including the Lalamon™ Embroidered Lace Push-Up Bra & Thong Set and the Lalamon™ Eyelash Lace Bra & Thong Set. Not sure about fit? Read how to choose a lace bra and thong set that fits.

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