The Best Way to Wash Delicates: Lingerie, Silk, and Lace Care

 

Delicate fabrics like silk, lace, and lingerie require special attention to maintain their softness, structure, and longevity. Washing them the wrong way can lead to damage, shrinking, or fading. Here’s a guide on the best ways to care for your delicates so they stay beautiful and last longer.

1. Hand-Wash Whenever Possible

• Hand-washing is the safest option for delicate fabrics. Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water and add a small amount of a gentle detergent designed for delicates. Avoid using regular detergent, as it can be too harsh. Swish the water to mix in the detergent, then submerge your garments, gently agitating them for a few minutes.

2. Use a Mesh Laundry Bag for Machine Washing

• If you prefer using the washing machine, place your delicates in a mesh laundry bag. This helps protect them from snagging or getting tangled with other clothes. Always use the delicate or hand-wash cycle with cold water, and choose a gentle detergent specifically made for delicate fabrics.

3. Avoid Harsh Detergents

• Delicate fabrics require a mild detergent that won’t strip away their natural fibers. Opt for a detergent free of bleach, brighteners, or enzymes, which can be too aggressive for these materials. A detergent labeled for wool, silk, or lingerie is ideal.

4. Handle Stains Gently

• For stains on delicate fabrics, avoid rubbing or scrubbing. Instead, gently blot the stain with a cloth or sponge using cool water and mild detergent. If the stain persists, you can soak the item in cool water with a small amount of detergent before washing.

5. Don’t Twist or Wring Out Delicate Fabrics

• Twisting or wringing delicates can stretch or warp the fabric, especially lace and silk. After washing, gently press out excess water by laying the garment flat on a clean towel, then rolling the towel with the garment inside to absorb the water. You can also gently squeeze the water out without twisting.

6. Air Dry Flat or Hang Carefully

• Air drying is essential for delicates. Lay them flat on a clean, dry towel or drying rack, away from direct sunlight, which can cause colors to fade. For items like lace lingerie, which may lose shape, hang them by the band or straps rather than the cups or more fragile areas.

7. Avoid the Dryer

• The heat and tumbling action of a dryer can damage delicate fabrics, causing shrinkage, fraying, and weakening of fibers. Always air dry your delicates, even if they claim to be dryer-safe. The extra effort pays off by preserving the fabric’s integrity.

8. Store Delicates Properly

• How you store delicate fabrics is just as important as how you wash them. Store silk items and lingerie in breathable fabric bags or lined drawers, and avoid folding items like lace that could lose shape. Using padded hangers for silk garments prevents creases and fabric stretching.

9. Refresh Between Washes

• Delicates often don’t need frequent washing. You can refresh them between wears with a gentle fabric spray or by airing them out. Over-washing can lead to faster wear and tear on sensitive fabrics.

10. Be Cautious with Ironing

• If your delicate item needs ironing, use the lowest heat setting. Place a cloth between the iron and the fabric to avoid direct contact, which can leave marks or cause damage. For silks, steamers are a better option to gently remove wrinkles without direct heat.

Conclusion

Taking extra care when washing delicate fabrics can make a big difference in how long they last and how good they look. Hand-washing, using the right products, and proper drying techniques are key to maintaining the beauty and structure of your delicate garments.