You know the importance of a good sports bra. Whether running, practicing yoga or tackling a cross-fit class, you want your boobs to stay in place and out of the way. However, you also know how gross a sports bra can get after a sweaty workout session.
Tip #1: Take off your sports bra RIGHT AFTER you work out!
You might think I am just going to run a few errands right after the gym which results in you wearing your sports bra longer than your time at the gym. Get in the habit of take off your sports bra as soon as the workout is complete! Sweat and bacteria can break down the fabric of the sports bra and stretch the band out, so it is very important to take it off after exercising and give it a rinse.
Tip #2: Hand washing your sports bra
If you really want to take care of your sports bra, or any garment for that matter, then hand washing them is the most gentle. Take just a small amount of detergent, scrub it into your sports bra, rinse, and hang dry flat! However, if you use the same sports bra regularly, do a more thorough wash.
Tip #3: Machine was your sports bra on delicate
If you are washing a sports bra in the washing machine then you must must MUST wash it on the delicate cycle to ensure your sports bra is safe through the wash. This goes for any type of bra. Also, wash like items with like items. Make sure to wash your sports bra with similar materials and for extra insurance that your sports bra is safe through the wash you might want to invest in a lingerie bag so that your bras do not lose their shape. Also, a lingerie bag can be thrown in with your other clothes if you’re only trying to do one load. As a general rule of thumb, follow the directions on the label of your sports bra and steer clear of fabric softener, which break down the fibers that make your sports bra stretchy and firm!
Tip #4: Sanitize your extra-sweaty bras
If you have a sports bra that is extra sweaty or one that you found in an old gym bag then you might want to wash your sports bra on the sanitize cycle of the wash. If your machine doesn’t have a sanitize cycle, you can sanitize it by washing it in extra hot water.
Tip #5: Lay your sports bra play or drape to air dry
WARNING: DO NOT PUT YOUR SPORTS BRA IN THE DRYER! Or any bra for that matter. Drying your sports bra in the dryer could stretch them out. Air drying is worth the time it takes. Get a drying rack or drape your sports bra over a surface to let them breathe and dry. Hanging a sports bra by the straps will stretch the straps out.
Like any clothing, sports bras get worn out and need to be replaced. Depending on how often it gets worn, you may need to replace a sports bra every 6-12 months.
Here are a few signs you might need to replace your sports bra:
- The tags are faded and no longer readable
- The band is stretched and no longer fits snugly
- You’re noticing more movement in the bra when you workout
- It’s pilling or looking worn in particular spots
- If you’ve body has changed and the bra is no longer fitting you correctly
- The bra rides up when you raise your arms.
Washing your sports bras frequently and correctly will help preserve your sports bras shape and fit, which saves you money at the end of the day. Bloom Bras are made out the the highest quality materials and are made to last through your toughest workouts.
Sources: This is how you should be washing your sports bras by Caitlin Corsetti; How To Care For Your Sports Bra by Kayla Itsines