The majority of modern lingerie out there today is available in a wide variety of fabrics which are a lot easier to care for than was once made. Nevertheless, we still have to give a little extra attention to all of our undergarments, if we would like them to remain in good condition for a reasonable amount of time. Numerous manufacturers’ garment tags do state the garment can be washed and dried in a machine but numerous garment tags still insist lingerie should be handwashed only. And although it’s definitely more convenient to throw a load of clothes in the washing machine before leaving for work in the morning, a washing machine can do serious damage to a delicate lace trimmed camisole while it’s agitating a load of clothes for a thorough cleaning cycle.
Regrettably, the majority of us are very busy people with full schedules which don’t accommodate the luxury of handwashing. The good news is we have a number of convenient options to select from. Modern washing machines usually have a “delicate” cycle alternative that won’t be quite as harsh on the more delicate lace trims of your lingerie. If you combine your delicate cycle with cold water and a detergent meant for delicates like Woolite or Dreft, you should have no troubles with repeated washings of any lingerie.
One more alternative is to use your washing machine as a soak basin by filling it up with cold water and a delicates-friendly detergent, allowing it to soak for 30 minutes or so, then simply releasing the water out manually by skipping the other cycles of your machine. Then refill the machine with clear water and let soak another 30 minutes, then repeat the letting out process. This ought to allow a wash/rinse which will be enough for most normal use but certainly won’t be quite effective in serious stains or odors.
The best alternative to safely clean your lingerie without handwashing is to make use of a lingerie bag for your delicates. These bags are inexpensive, easily obtainable at most department stores, and are made of a durable mesh that will take the abuse of the washing machine’s twisting while protecting your lingerie safely inside. We would suggest using 1 bag per garment to steer clear of tangles. Just put your item inside the lingerie bag, zip it up and throw it into a washing machine filled with cold water and a mild detergent.
Concerned about the dryer? An especially good idea is to hang dry rather than using the dryer since dryers could be unpredictable in their heat distribution and you must keep in mind that scorching a fine silk will permanently destroy the garment beyond repair. However, if you prefer using your dryer, leave the item in its lingerie bag during the drying process and use the lowest possible heat setting you have available. If your lingerie is made from a sheer fabric like chiffon then no heat is truly needed to dry the garment. Just use the air fluff feature to “blow-dry” your lingerie dry as it tumbles safely in the lingerie bag.
