How to Clean and Care for Your Lingerie Accessories
By D+ Bras and Swimwear for a Feel-Good Figure – Curvy Kate US | Published: 2026-10-27
Category: How-to Guides
Learn practical steps to clean and care for lingerie accessories like nipple covers and washbags, plus tips for bra extenders and delicate items.
Quick Answer
To keep your lingerie accessories in great shape, clean them regularly using gentle methods: hand wash silicone nipple covers with mild soap, use a mesh washbag for machine-washable items, and store everything properly to avoid damage.
Why Accessory Care Matters
Lingerie accessories like nipple covers and bra extenders often get overlooked, but they need proper care to last and perform well. Silicone nipple covers can lose their stickiness or shape if cleaned incorrectly, while bra extenders with metal hooks can corrode or snag delicate fabrics if not handled gently.
Investing a few minutes in cleaning and storing these small items properly can save you money and keep your lingerie looking and feeling great.
Trade-Offs: Hand Washing vs. Machine Washing
Hand washing is always the safest option for delicate accessories, but it takes time. Machine washing is convenient, but it can be harsh on items like nipple covers and bra extenders.
When you do use a machine, a mesh washbag is your best friend. It protects items from friction and snagging, and it keeps small parts together. For nipple covers, however, machine washing is not recommended—they need gentle hand washing to maintain their shape and adhesion.
Bra extenders are often metal with small hooks, so they can rust or bend in the machine. Hand washing them is safer, but if you must machine wash, place them in a washbag and use a delicate cycle.
Step-by-Step Care Routine
- Clean Silicone Nipple Covers: After each use, rinse the covers briefly with lukewarm water. Use a mild, fragrance-free soap if needed, then let them air dry completely before storing. Avoid using oils or lotions on the skin before wearing them, as this can reduce their grip. Never use fabric softener or harsh detergents—they can break down the silicone.
- Wash Bra Extenders: Hand wash bra extenders in cool water with a gentle detergent. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a towel. Avoid wringing or twisting, which can bend the hooks. If you prefer machine washing, place the extender inside a mesh washbag and use a delicate cycle. Always check for rust or bent hooks after washing; replace if damaged to avoid snagging your bras.
- Use a Washbag for Delicates: For bras and other delicate items that need machine washing, place them inside a mesh washbag like the Curvy Kate Square Washbag. Zip it closed and use a gentle cycle with cold water. This limits friction and prevents straps from tangling. Don't overfill the washbag—leave room for items to move freely for a better clean.
- Store Accessories Properly: Store nipple covers in their original case or a clean, dry container to protect them from dust and deformation. Keep bra extenders in a small pouch or drawer compartment to prevent them from catching on other items. Store away from direct sunlight and heat to preserve elasticity and adhesion.
- Refresh and Inspect Regularly: Every few weeks, inspect your accessories for signs of wear: check nipple covers for loss of stickiness or cracks, and bra extenders for rust or loose hooks. Clean them as needed and replace any that show damage to maintain comfort and safety. Regular inspection helps you catch issues early, saving you from unexpected failures.
Products That Help
- Curvy Kate Square Washbag White: The Curvy Kate Square Washbag is made from sturdy mesh with a zip closure and a branded tab, designed to protect delicate items in the washing machine. Using this washbag lets you machine wash bras and other delicates with less risk of damage, while keeping small accessories like bra extenders together.

Curvy Kate Square Washbag White - Magic Silicone Nipple Covers Mocha Brown: The Magic Silicone Nipple Covers are ultra thin, skin-friendly, and non-adhesive, vacuuming to the nipple area for unlimited use; they can be reused by rinsing briefly with water. Proper cleaning extends their life and keeps them invisible under clothes, so you can wear them confidently many times.

Magic Silicone Nipple Covers Mocha Brown

