Undergarments are worn closest to the skin, in heat and humidity, often for long days. They collect sweat, body oils and bacteria, yet they are made of the most delicate fabrics in your wardrobe: lace, elastic, fine cotton and microfibre. Washing them with regular detergent in a full machine load is the quickest way to stretch them out, fade them and still leave odour behind.
Why regular detergent is not ideal for intimate wear
- Strong detergents and bleach break down elastic and lace over time.
- Heavy fragrance and residue can irritate sensitive skin.
- A big mixed load tangles straps and bends underwires.
- High temperatures shrink cotton and weaken elastic.
A mild, purpose-made undergarment wash cleans away sweat and odour gently, which is why it is worth keeping a separate bottle for intimate wear.
How to hand wash bras, lingerie and underwear
- Fill a bucket or basin with cool or lukewarm water. Hot water damages elastic.
- Add a small amount of undergarment wash liquid and swirl it in.
- Soak the garments for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Gently rub stained areas between your fingers. Do not scrub with a brush.
- Rinse in clean water until no foam remains.
- Press out water by squeezing gently or rolling the garment in a towel. Never wring or twist.
- Dry flat or hang in the shade. Direct strong sun fades colours and weakens elastic.
If you use a washing machine
- Hook bras closed and put intimate wear in a mesh laundry bag.
- Use the delicate or hand-wash cycle with cold water.
- Wash with similar colours and light fabrics only, never with jeans or towels.
- Skip the dryer and dry flat or in the shade.
How often should undergarments be washed?
Underwear should be washed after every wear. Bras can usually be worn two or three times between washes if you rotate them, but sports bras and anything worn in heavy sweat should be washed after each use.
HerbyShine’s Secret Soak undergarment wash is a mild, plant-based and bleach-free liquid wash for bras, lingerie and underwear, for men and women. It removes sweat, odour and stains while protecting delicate fabrics, and comes in strawberry, vanilla and chocolate fragrances.
Frequently asked questions
Hand wash in cool water with a mild undergarment wash, soak for 10 to 15 minutes, rinse well, press out water without wringing and dry flat or in the shade.
Yes, on a delicate cycle with cold water, with the hooks closed and the bra inside a mesh laundry bag. Hand washing is still gentler on underwires and lace.
Soak them in cool water with an undergarment wash for 10 to 15 minutes before washing, rinse thoroughly and dry them fully. Dampness is what makes odour linger.
Yes. Washing them separately, or in a mesh bag with other delicates, protects the fabric and is more hygienic.
Yes. A mild undergarment wash suits men’s and women’s underwear, vests and innerwear alike.
Shop the products in this guide: Secret Soak undergarment wash · liquid laundry detergent