Lingerie Care: How to Take Care of Your Delicate Undies

You wouldn't consider tossing your favorite little black dress in the washing machine with your jeans, and then tossing the soaking wet mass in the dryer afterwards, right? Of course not. It's your favorite going-out dress, makes you look and feel great, and it may well have cost you a pretty penny. Lingerie care is just as important. With careful and a little extra attention, your intimate apparel will enjoy a longer life, maintain the proper fit, and remain comfortable.

Your first step should be to check the garment's label. The manufacturer's instructions and recommendations are specified for a reason ‐ they know a lot about the fabrics they use. If dry cleaning is recommended, you should follow those instructions. That will ensure the garment maintains it's original and intended fit and appearance. However, if taking them to be dry cleaned is not possible, or if there aren't specific instructions, or the tag is missing, there are safe and gentle ways to clean your garments at home.

The mildest and most gentle methods are always the best ones, and are more likely to preserve the integrity of the items. They are less likely to cause fading, shrinking or damage to the fabrics and you will be able to enjoy wearing your intimate wardrobe much longer.

The safest method is to hand wash your intimates in cold water. Fill a small sink or tub with cold water and a small amount (usually a capful) of a mild detergent such as Woolite. There are other alternative soaps as well, including liquid detergent for baby clothes, mild adult shampoo or baby shampoo.

Separate the garments by color, and wash them individually. It's a good idea to begin with the lighter colors first, as the color dye may leech out into the water. If the water begins to darken, drain the sink or tub, rinse with fresh water and refill it. Allow each garment to soak for just a few minutes (3 to 5) and then gently squeeze them to run the detergent through. Then rinse them carefully with cold water. There are several methods for drying the items as well. Bras can be hung to dry over a shower curtain or stall, or from a hanger. Silks items should be dried flat on a towel or laundry drying rack. Some items retain their shape better if they are hung to dry, but it depends on the design and cut of each garment.

If you must machine wash your intimates you should invest in a special lingerie washing bag. They are made of a mesh fabric that allows the water and detergent to move around and through the fabric without exerting undo stress on the material. Be sure to close and fasten all of the hooks, clasps and eyes of the items before you wash them.

Remember, your intimate wardrobe is made up of items that are also called "delicates." If you treat them as such, and wash, dry and care for them carefully, you will extend the wearing life of each garment and protect your investment.

Aside from that, you'll feel and look sexy and fabulous for years to come!

By Lori Eads