Sports Bra Care Tips

Sports bras are a vital part of any woman’s workout wardrobe. After all, they support and prevent bounce, which helps you avoid discomfort and injuries. Taking care of them is also essential so that they last as long as possible. After all, quality sports bras can be costly.

In this blog, we will provide much-needed care tips, from how to wash your sports bra to how often you should do it. Let’s get down to it.

How to Wash Sports Bras

There are a few different ways to wash sports bras. If you’re not confident about handwashing, you can still wash your sports bras using a washing machine. If the label on your sports bras allows for machine washing then follow the instructions on the label along with these steps when washing your sports bras in a washing machine:

  • Fasten all the clasps to keep your bra from getting caught on other clothing in the same wash.
  • If the bra has removable pads, take them out and wash them by hand.
  • Place your sports bra inside a mesh lingerie bag, especially if you want to wash it with other clothing items.
  • Follow the care instructions placed on the tag. But if it’s missing, choose the delicate cycle and use warm water. 
  • Avoid using too much detergent, and choose one that is intended for performance fabrics. 
sports bra on a laundry stand

How to Handwash Sports Bras

To handwash sports bras, fill a sink or bowl with cold water and add a mild detergent. Then submerge the bras in the water and let them soak for about 20 to 30  minutes.

After that, gently massage them for a few minutes to help remove sweat and dirt. Finally, rinse off the soap with cold water and dry them flat on a towel.

How to Wash White Sports Bras

Washing White sports bras is not all that different to washing coloured sports bras. Consider the following when washing your White bra;

Handwashing is probably the best option for white sports bras, as you can spot areas that need more cleaning. Moreover, you can avoid colour transfers from dark clothing. You can also wash white sports bras in the washing machine, but always follow the care instructions on the tag.

Should You Use a Dryer?

The quick answer is NO!

Always avoid using a dryer, especially on high heat. That’s because dryers can stretch out the elastic and fabric on your sports bras, altering their fit and making them less supportive.

Ensure your sports bras retain their shape by air drying them instead. You can lay them on a flat surface or hang them to dry on a drying rack. Don’t hang your sports bras from the straps because doing so can also stretch them out.

How Often Should You Wash Your Sports Bras?

Ideally, you should wash sports bras after every wear to keep them clean and odour-free. However, this is not always possible. So if you can’t wash it right away, hang it up to air dry to keep bacteria, fungi and yeast from building up in the bra fibres.

Also, it is advisable to alternate between different sports bras, especially if you work out a lot, to prevent the elastic fibres from getting stretched too quickly. I like to apply the wear one, one in the wash principle. That said if you work out 4-5 times a week or more then consider three sports bras. Wear one, one in the wash, one in the drawer.

Most importantly, if you can take off your sports bra immediately after your workout. If you are unable to then as soon as possible to stop unnecessary stretch of the damp bra and also to prevent potential rub from the damp fabric. Assuming you have sweated a lot. 

soaked bras in soapy water

How Improper Care Can Affect Sports Bras

You must take proper care of your sports bras to help them last as long as they should. Improper care can also cause discolouration and allow bacteria to accumulate in the fabric, leading to skin irritation or infections. To keep your bras in good condition, follow the tips mentioned above and take care when washing and drying them.

Is Using Fabric Softeners a Good Idea?

Synthetic, moisture-wicking fabrics are great for keeping you comfortable, cool and dry during a workout. But they don’t match well with fabric softeners. That’s because fabric softeners can clog the fibres of a sports bra, keeping sweat and dirt trapped instead of washing out.

Moreover, fabric softeners will keep the fabric from performing its intended purpose: wicking away moisture from the skin. So, opt for fabric boosters instead since these are designed for performance clothing.

Use High-Quality Sports Bras for Longer Use

Learning how to take care of your sports bra is essential. After all, quality sports bras can be expensive, especially if you buy high-performance bras from trusted brands.

But before taking care of them, you first need to buy the right ones. And if you’re looking for trusted, quality sports bras from reputable brands, check out our selection here at Sports Bras Direct. They come in a variety of bra colours, but we also feature a range of stylish white sports bras.

Your in Support

Amy x

Amy Jaffers - Sports Bra Expert

Amy Jaffers

Amy is the face behind Sports Bras Direct, Australia’s largest sports bra website. She's a mother of two, outdoors lover and sports bra expert. Her life mission is to help active women get the support they need as well as assisting women in need through her charitable donations.

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