How to Wash and Care for Your Nursing Bras to Extend Their Life

Quick Answer

To extend the life of your nursing bras, hand wash them in cold water with a gentle detergent and lay them flat to dry. Avoid the washing machine and dryer, as the agitation and heat can break down elastic and bamboo fibers, causing loss of support and shape.

Nursing bras work hard—they support changing breast tissue, hold nursing pads, and endure frequent access for feeding. With the right care, you can keep them comfortable and supportive through many months of use. Here’s a practical guide to washing and maintaining your maternity and nursing bras so they last.

The key is to treat them gently. Most nursing bras are made with delicate fabrics like bamboo blends and spandex, which are prone to damage from heat and rough handling. By following a few simple habits, you can preserve their fit and function.

Why Hand Washing Is Best

The washing machine, even on a gentle cycle, can stretch straps, misshape cups, and snag delicate fabric. The agitation is tough on elastic, which is essential for support. Hand washing gives you control and is the safest method for all nursing bras, especially those with underwire or molded cups.

If you must use a machine, place the bra in a mesh lingerie bag and choose the delicate cycle with cold water. But even then, the spin cycle can distort the cups. Hand washing takes just a few minutes and significantly extends the life of your bra.

• Use a gentle detergent free of bleach and fabric softeners.
• Never wring or twist the bra; gently squeeze out excess water.

Step-by-Step Hand Washing

Fill a basin with cold or lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Submerge the bra and gently agitate with your hands, paying attention to the underarm and underband areas where sweat and oils accumulate. Let it soak for about 10 minutes.

Rinse thoroughly in cool water until no soap remains. Press the bra between a clean towel to remove excess water, then reshape the cups and lay flat to dry. Avoid hanging, as the weight of water can stretch the straps.

• Check the care label for specific instructions, but most bras benefit from this method.

Drying and Storage Tips

Heat is the enemy of elastic. Never put nursing bras in the dryer, even on a low setting. High heat can break down spandex and bamboo fibers, causing the bra to lose its stretch and support. Always air dry away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.

Store bras flat or hang them by the center gore (the fabric between the cups) to maintain shape. Avoid folding cups in half or stacking heavy items on top, which can cause permanent creases.

• Consider having two or three bras in rotation to allow each to rest between wears.

Your Nursing Bra Care Routine

1. Step 1: Read the Care Label: Always check the tag for specific instructions. Most nursing bras recommend hand washing in cold water and air drying. Following the label prevents accidental damage.
2. Step 2: Hand Wash with Gentle Detergent: Fill a basin with cold water and add a mild detergent. Soak and gently squeeze the bra, avoiding twisting or wringing. This preserves elastic and fabric integrity.
3. Step 3: Rinse and Press Dry: Rinse thoroughly, then press the bra between a clean towel to remove excess water. Reshape the cups and lay flat to dry. Air drying is essential; never use a dryer.

Products That Make Care Easier

• Sublime® Bamboo Hands-Free Pumping Longline Bra Top | Light Mauve: This hands-free pumping bra top features a flattering fit, ultra-soft bamboo fabric, and built-in pumping functionality. Bamboo fabric is naturally breathable and gentle, but it requires proper washing to maintain its softness. Hand washing this bra top preserves its seamless knit and ensures the built-in pumping openings stay functional.
• Sublime® Bamboo Scoop Neck Maternity & Nursing Longline Bra Top | Black: The longline silhouette provides light support, and the breathable bamboo fabric keeps you comfortable through all stages. Longline bras have more fabric and elastic, so they especially benefit from gentle washing to keep the band from stretching out. Proper care helps the scoop neck and nursing access remain easy to use.

With consistent gentle care, your nursing bras will maintain their support and comfort through many months of feeding. Hand washing and air drying are simple habits that pay off in the long run, keeping your favorite maternity bras in great shape.