How to Care for Your Delicate Lingerie
Luxury lingerie is made to last—soft lace, beautiful satin, delicate mesh—all designed to trace your body like poetry. But these fabrics ask for care. The way you wash and store them determines how long they’ll keep their beauty, their shape, their whisper of allure.
Proper care isn’t complicated—it’s simply attention. And the right attention transforms a beautiful piece into one that feels timeless.
Step One: Handle with Care
Always begin by checking the care label. Most fine lingerie prefers to be hand washed. The fibers are more fragile than they appear, and machine cycles—even delicate ones—can be harsh.
If the label says “hand wash,” then take the time to do so. We know it can be tedious when it comes to certain styles, especially ones with a lot of fabric (robes, nightgowns, etc). If you have a newer washer with a hand wash cycle (or delicate cycle that you swear by), then placing those items in the washer from time to time is fine. But if you have a robe with feathers, don’t even dare! Take the time to properly care for your most delicate lingerie.
Step Two: Hand Wash
Fill a clean sink or basin with lukewarm water and add a few drops of gentle detergent—ideally one formulated for lingerie, silk, or wool. Avoid bleach or regular detergents; they’re too strong for delicate fibers.
Submerge your lingerie and swirl it lightly with your hands. Let it soak for five to ten minutes, then gently rub areas that need extra attention—straps, gussets, or bands. Never twist or wring the fabric; it can stretch lace and damage elasticity.
If you do want to use the hand wash cycle or delicate cycle on your washing machine, test it with a lingerie set or babydoll that you’re not totally in love with first. You wouldn’t want to damage your favorite lingerie because of selecting the wrong settings or not testing first. Separate them from other clothes and wash by color family. Place pieces in a mesh lingerie bag, fasten all hooks, and choose the delicate cycle with cold water. Skip the dryer completely.
Step Three: Rinse Gently
Empty the basin and refill it with cool water. Swish your lingerie until the water runs clear, ensuring no detergent remains. The material should feel clean but never over-handled.
Step Four: Dry Flat
Lay each piece on a clean towel and gently press out excess water. Avoid hanging lingerie by the straps—especially when wet—as it can distort the shape. Instead, let it air dry flat, away from direct sunlight or heat. Cotton lingerie can soak up the sun.
Silk and lace lingerie can be hung on a rack inside to dry.
Step Five: Store Beautifully
Keep your lingerie folded in drawers lined with soft fabric or tissue paper. Store bras with cups facing upright—not folded into each other—to preserve their structure. Separate delicates by type: lace, silk, mesh.
For extra care, use breathable lingerie pouches or sachets with lavender or cedar to maintain freshness.
Final Thought
Beautiful things don’t ask for perfection—only care.
When you handle your lingerie with attention, it lasts longer, fits better, and continues to make you feel like the most elegant version of yourself.
After all, luxury isn’t just in how it looks—it’s in how long it lasts when loved properly.
With love,
Anya Lust
