How to 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, then lay them flat to dry. Avoid the dryer and fabric softeners, which can break down elastic and moisture-wicking fabrics. Rotate between at least two bras so each one gets a rest day.

Nursing bras work hard: they support changing breast tissue, withstand repeated clip-down access, and often get worn daily. With the right care, a quality bra can stay supportive and comfortable through months of feedings and beyond. But common mistakes—like tossing them in the dryer or using fabric softener—can quickly ruin their fit and function.

This guide walks you through a simple routine to keep your nursing bras in top shape. From washing to storing, these steps help preserve the stretch, shape, and convenience features you rely on.

Why Proper Nursing Bra Care Matters

Nursing bras are made with specialized fabrics and hardware. Many, like the Simply Sublime® Nursing Bra, use a seamless knit that's smooth, stretchy, and supportive. This fabric adapts to your changing body, but it's also delicate. Heat and harsh detergents can break down the fibers, causing sagging and loss of support.

The clips and adjustable straps are also vulnerable. Repeated washing in a machine can cause them to snag or wear out faster. By learning to care for your bras properly, you protect your investment and ensure they continue to provide the easy access and comfort you need.

• Check the care label on each bra—some may have specific instructions.
• Rotate between at least two bras to allow elastic to recover between wears.

Washing Your Nursing Bras: Step-by-Step

The best way to wash nursing bras is by hand. Fill a basin with cold water and add a small amount of gentle detergent—one that's free of bleach and optical brighteners. Submerge the bra and gently squeeze the water through the fabric, paying attention to the cups and straps. Avoid scrubbing or twisting, which can distort the shape.

If you prefer to use a washing machine, place the bra in a mesh lingerie bag and select the delicate or hand-wash cycle with cold water. Always fasten the clips before washing to prevent them from catching on other items. Never use fabric softener, as it coats the fibers and reduces moisture-wicking and stretch.

• Use a gentle detergent designed for delicates or baby clothes.
• Do not wring out the bra—instead, press it gently against a towel to remove excess water.

Drying and Storing Nursing Bras

Heat is the enemy of elastic and synthetic fabrics. Never put nursing bras in the dryer. Instead, reshape the bra while it's damp and lay it flat on a clean towel or drying rack. Avoid hanging by the straps, as the weight of water can stretch them out.

When storing, fold the cups into each other rather than stacking them flat, which can cause creases. Keep bras in a drawer where they won't be crushed. If you have multiple bras, rotate them so each one gets a break between wears—this helps the elastic recover and extends the overall life of the bra.

• Dry away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
• Store bras in a way that maintains their cup shape.

Step-by-Step Nursing Bra Care Routine

1. Step 1: Fasten and Prep: Before washing, fasten the hooks and clips to prevent snagging. If you're using a machine, place the bra in a mesh lingerie bag. Checkpoint: Ensure all closures are secure—this protects delicate hardware.
2. Step 2: Wash in Cold Water: Hand wash with a gentle detergent in cold water, or machine wash on delicate with cold water. Avoid fabric softeners and bleach. Checkpoint: Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue, which can irritate skin and break down fibers.
3. Step 3: Press Out Excess Water: Do not wring or twist. Gently press the bra against a clean towel to absorb water, then reshape the cups and straps. Checkpoint: The bra should be damp, not dripping—this helps it dry faster and keep its shape.
4. Step 4: Dry Flat: Lay the bra flat on a drying rack or towel, away from direct heat and sunlight. Never use a dryer or hang by the straps. Checkpoint: Allow ample drying time—at least 24 hours—to prevent mildew and maintain elasticity.
5. Step 5: Store Properly: Fold cups into each other and store in a drawer without crushing. Rotate between bras to extend their life. Checkpoint: If a bra loses its shape or support, it's time to replace it—typically every 6-12 months with regular use.

Products That Benefit from Good Care

• Simply Sublime® Nursing Bra | Black: A seamless, full-coverage bra designed for everyday nursing. Made with super-soft, stretchy fabric that flexes with your changing body, it’s smooth under clothes and easy to wear from pregnancy through breastfeeding. Because it's seamless and stretchy, proper washing and drying help maintain its shape and support, so it continues to fit comfortably as your body changes.
• Sublime® Low Impact Pumping & Nursing Sports Bra | Black: A seamless sports bra you can pump and nurse in. With breathable, supportive fabric and our patented double-layer system with EasyClip®, you can move, pump, or nurse – all in the same bra. Suitable for low-impact activities. The double-layer design and EasyClip® hardware are delicate; gentle care prevents the clips from breaking and keeps the supportive fabric from losing its stretch during workouts.

Caring for your nursing bras doesn't have to be time-consuming. By adopting a gentle washing routine and drying them flat, you'll keep them comfortable and supportive for months. Remember to rotate your bras and check for signs of wear. With proper care, your nursing bras will serve you well through your breastfeeding journey and beyond.