Why You Should Change Your Bra Every Six Months.
When was the last time you bought a new bra? If you can't remember, it might be time to refresh your lingerie drawer. Most of us don’t think about replacing our bras as often as we should, but experts recommend doing so every six months—or after approximately 180 wears. Here’s why it’s important to swap out your bras regularly and how to extend their lifespan.
The Lifespan of a Bra
Bras, like any piece of clothing, experience wear and tear over time. The elastic fibers that provide support start to stretch out, and the fabric can lose its shape. These changes aren’t just cosmetic; they directly affect the fit and comfort of the bra. A worn-out bra can lead to a lack of support, discomfort, and even back or shoulder pain.
Ali Cudby, author of Busted and Fit My Bras, and founder of Fab Foundations, explains that while bras are built to be durable, they aren't designed to last forever. "If you have a large selection of bras in rotation, you can go longer than six months before replacing them if you’re caring for those bras properly," she says. However, regular use means the elastic will inevitably weaken, diminishing the bra’s effectiveness over time.
Signs Your Bra Needs Replacing
Not sure if it’s time to let go of your favorite bra? Here are some signs that it’s time to shop for a new one:
- Loose Straps: If you find yourself constantly tightening the straps, it’s a sign the elastic is stretched out.
- Band Riding Up: The band should sit snugly and horizontally across your back. If it’s riding up, the band has lost its elasticity.
- Gapping or Spillage: If your cups no longer fit properly—either gapping or spilling over—it’s a sign the bra has lost its shape.
- Underwire Poking: If the underwire is poking through the fabric, it’s time to replace the bra immediately for your comfort and safety.
Extending the Life of Your Bras
While replacing your bras every six months is recommended, there are ways to extend their life. Proper care can make a big difference in how long your bras last.
"Putting your bras in the dryer breaks down the elastic much more quickly, so save your bras from an untimely death by letting them air dry and hand wash them when possible," advises Cudby. Machine washing on a gentle cycle is acceptable, but always use a lingerie bag to protect the delicate fabric and underwire. When drying, skip the dryer altogether; the heat is damaging to the elastic and can significantly shorten the lifespan of your bras.
Additionally, having a variety of bras in your wardrobe and rotating them regularly can reduce wear and tear. Wearing the same bra multiple days in a row can cause the elastic to stretch out faster. Giving your bras a day or two of rest in between wears allows the elastic to recover and maintain its shape.
The Importance of a Well-Fitted Bra
Wearing a bra that fits well and offers the right support is crucial for both comfort and health. A bra that no longer fits properly can lead to discomfort, poor posture, and even pain in the shoulders, back, and neck. By replacing your bras every six months, you ensure that you’re always getting the support you need.
Investing in high-quality bras and taking good care of them will not only extend their life but also ensure that you feel comfortable and supported every day. So, if it’s been more than six months since your last bra shopping trip, it might be time to treat yourself to some new, well-fitting bras. Your body will thank you!
Find your fit!
Finding the perfect comfortable bra can be a challenge at the best of times. To help make things easier we've put together a measurement guide to help you choose the right bra for you, whether shopping online from home or in-store.