How Often Should You Wash Your Bra?

Bra washing might not be your favorite chore—but how often you do it really matters. Wash too little, and you risk breakouts and bacteria buildup. Wash too much, and you could ruin the elasticity. So what’s the right balance?

Let’s break it down with expert advice, science-backed insights, and practical tips.

The Golden Rule: Every 1–2 Wears

Most dermatologists agree: bras should be washed after 1 to 2 wears, depending on activity, skin type, and weather.

●Light, everyday wear? Washing every 1–2 wears is fine.

●Sweaty workouts or hot weather? Wash after every wear—especially with sports bras. Coobie sports bras are made with moisture-wicking, quick-dry fabric, making them ideal for workouts and easy to wash after intense activity.

●Sensitive skin? If you're prone to irritation, it’s safest to wash after each use.

Rotating your bras also helps. Having 3–5 in rotation gives each one time to "rest," which helps maintain shape and elasticity.

Pro tip: Choosing high-quality bras made with breathable, durable materials—like the ones we make at Coobie —also helps you go longer between washes without sacrificing comfort.

Why Skipping Washes Can Backfire

It’s easy to forget how much your bra goes through. Every wear adds:

●Sweat and body oils

●Dead skin cells

●Bacteria and yeast

This mix can lead to breakouts, itching, and even fungal infections. If your bra smells, looks dingy, or causes skin irritation, it’s definitely time to give it a good clean.

How to Wash Your Bra the Right Way

Bras are delicate and deserve a little TLC. Follow these tips to keep yours in great shape:

●Best method? Hand wash. Soak in cool or lukewarm water with a gentle detergent. Avoid hot water or bleach.Our seamless Coobie bras are crafted without tags or wires, which means they're even easier to hand wash—and stay comfortable no matter how often you clean them.

●Target the sweat zones. Gently scrub the underband and inside of the cups where sweat builds up.

●If you use a washing machine: Use a lingerie bag, cold water, and delicate cycle. Always air dry—never use the dryer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

●Washing too harshly. UV, boiling water, or bleach can damage fabric over time.

●Wearing too tight. Bras that don’t fit properly can trap heat and moisture.

●Tossing bras in with everything else. Keep them separate from jeans, socks, or towels to avoid bacteria transfer.

Time to Say Goodbye?

No matter how well you care for your bra, it won’t last forever. Replace your bra if:

●The band stretches out or rides up

●The cups lose shape or wires poke through

●The fabric is thinning or discolored

Think of your bra as a second skin—it touches your body all day, every day. With proper rotation and a regular washing routine, you’ll protect your skin and extend the life of your lingerie. And when in doubt? Wash it out.