Caring for Your Sports Bra: Dos & Don’ts
Unsure about the DOs and DON’Ts of washing, drying or replacing your sports bra? The experts at our partners boobydoo are giving here to give us the lowdown on how to keep our sports bras fresh, supportive and lasting longer.
Wash Well, Wear Well
Key things to know
Use a laundry bag to protect hooks and fastenings.
Wash cool (around 30°C) with a mild detergent.
Avoid fabric softener - it weakens elastic and reduces support.
Check the label for underwired styles - many prefer gentle handwashing.
Air dry only - no tumble dryer.
How Often should you wash your sports bra?
Wash after sweaty sessions to stay fresh and hygienic.
Keep 2–3 bras to rotate so each one lasts longer.
It’s best to wash your sports bra after every wear, if you’ve been sweating heavily. However, for light exercise, you can wear it up to three times before washing, but washing after each session helps prevent odour and bacteria build-up, and keeps your bra performing well.
Tips for Machine Washing
If you prefer to machine wash your sports bras, follow these steps to keep them in great condition:
Always fasten the hook-and-eye closure before washing to prevent snagging.
Place your bra inside a wash net or mesh laundry bag for extra protection.
Use a cool wash (40°C or lower) and avoid fabric softeners - they can break down the elastic fibres.
Never tumble dry your bra - heat damages elastic and shape.
After washing, hang to air dry by the centre (between the cups), not from the straps, to keep its shape.
Tips for Hand Washing
Hand washing is the gentlest way to care for your sports bra, especially if it has underwires.
Fill a sink or basin with cool water and add a teaspoon of mild detergent.
Soak the bra for about 15 minutes to loosen sweat and oils.
Gently rub the fabric together to lift any dirt, then rinse thoroughly.
Lay the bra flat on a towel and press down to remove excess water - don’t wring or twist.
Hang dry between the cups, not from the straps, to help it keep its shape.
When to Replace your sports bra
No sports bra should see a birthday! If you’ve had it for a year or more, and washed it weekly, it’s probably time to say goodbye and refresh your rotation. Even the best sports bras don’t last forever.
Replace every 6–12 months, or sooner if you notice your sports bra is ready to be replaced:
SIGNS It’s time to replace your sports bra
You’ll start to notice signs that your bra’s support is wearing out. Common clues include:
The band feels looser or rides up your back
The elastic has stretched and no longer feels firm
The fabric is fraying or the shape has changed
The straps keep slipping
More bounce, rubbing, or chafing
💡 Think about your sports bra like you would your trainers - when the cushioning goes, it’s time to refresh.
How many sports bras should you have?
We recommend keeping at least three sports bras in rotation:
One to wear
One in the wash
One ready to go
If you’re training regularly, having a few options will help each bra last longer and keep you feeling fresh and supported
The key takeaways
A little care goes a long way! Look after your sports bra so it stays supportive for every match, training session and workout.
