How to Wash Your Nursing Bras (Without Ruining Them)

I still remember the first nursing bra I ever bought. It was soft, luxurious, and made me feel like me again. Not just a milk machine.

Fast forward a few weeks… it looked like it had survived a zombie apocalypse.

I didn’t realise then how much a little extra TLC could have saved it. If you are staring at your beautiful nursing bras and wondering how to keep them looking and feeling amazing, you are in the right place.

Let’s talk all about it, from mom to mom.

Why Proper Washing Matters for Your Nursing Bras

Your nursing bras aren’t just regular bras.

They are made with softer fabrics, extra stretch, and special support where you need it most. All of that magic? It’s also super delicate. 

Frequent washing… which, let’s be real, happens a lot when you are breastfeeding. Often, they can wear them out faster if you are not careful.

Think stretched-out straps, sagging cups, and faded colours. (Nobody has time for sad bras.)

Treating them kindly means they will last longer, feel better, and keep supporting you the way they should.

At Lovemère, we believe caring for your bras is an essential part of caring for yourself, that is why we share so much about proper bra care.

Hand Wash vs. Machine Wash: What’s Best?

Hand Washing: The Gold Standard

Hand washing is like giving your bras a spa day.

Here’s how to do it without making it a chore:

• Fill a basin with cool or cold water.
  
• Add a small amount of gentle detergent (more on that in a sec).
  
• Swish your bras around gently.
  
• Let them soak for about 10–15 minutes.
  
• Rinse well and press out the water (no wringing!).

It sounds like a lot, but honestly, it takes just a few extra minutes, and it’s so worth it. I usually do it while catching up on a podcast or while my little one is taking a nap.

Machine Washing: The Busy-Mom Shortcut

If you absolutely need to machine wash (some days just surviving is the win):

• Use a lingerie bag to protect your bras.
  
• Choose the delicate or hand-wash cycle.
  
• Use cool/cold water only.
  
• Fasten the hooks to prevent snagging.

I always toss my bras in a bag with a few lightweight items (like baby clothes) but never with heavy jeans or towels that can beat them up.

Choosing the Right Detergent and Water Temperature

Now, about detergent.

Skip anything strong, scented, or filled with “brighteners.”

Look for a mild, fragrance-free detergent. The kind you would trust on your baby’s clothes.

And remember:

• No bleach.
  
• No fabric softeners, as they leave a coating that weakens elastic.
  
• Stick to cold or cool water, as hot water can break down the fabric faster than a toddler can break a crayon.
  
  

Drying Your Nursing Bras the Right Way

Dryers = disaster for nursing bras.

I learned that the hard way when one of mine came out looking like a crumpled tissue.

Here’s how to do it right:

• Gently press out excess water with a towel, and remember don’t twist.
  
• Lay your bras flat on a towel to air dry.
  
• Reshape the cups and straps while damp.
  
• Keep them away from direct sunlight or heaters as that which can weaken the fibres.

Pro tip: I dry mine on a towel over a drying rack as it keeps them in good shape and doesn’t stretch the bands out.

Common Mistakes That Ruin Nursing Bras

Even with the best intentions and with our daily tasks, it’s easy to slip up. Here are the biggest culprits:

• Over-washing. You don’t need to wash after every single wear unless it’s sweaty or milk-stained.
  
  
• Using hot water. Seriously, it’s the fast track to sad and floppy bras.
  
  
• Stretching the fabric. Wringing, yanking, and aggressive towel drying. It’s a no-go.
  
  
• Tossing them in the dryer.

Be a little gentle and your bras will stay comfy, supportive, and beautiful for a long time.

Washing your nursing bras doesn’t have to be a big, fussy task.

Photo taken by Bows & Ribbons Photography. Featured - Love, Juliette Nursing Bralette

A little love goes a long way, and trust me, when you slip into a soft, perfectly supportive bra after a long, exhausting night… you will be so glad you did.

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