How to Clean Lingerie with Laundry Strips
By D+ Bras and Swimwear for a Feel-Good Figure – Curvy Kate US | Published: 2026-10-22
Category: Tips & Care
Learn how to wash bras and delicates with eco-friendly laundry strips. Step-by-step method for gentle, effective lingerie care.
Quick Answer
Use ultra-concentrated laundry strips dissolved in cool water to hand-wash your bras and delicates, or place a strip in the machine for a gentle cycle. They clean effectively without harsh chemicals that can damage delicate fabrics.
Why Laundry Strips Are a Good Choice for Lingerie
Traditional powder or liquid detergents often contain phosphates, chlorine bleach, and dyes that can irritate skin and break down elastic and lace over time. Laundry strips are ultra-concentrated, non-bio, and free of these harsh additives, making them a gentler option for your delicate pieces.
Because they are pre-measured, you avoid guessing the right amount—a common cause of residue buildup that makes bras feel stiff or look dull. The dissolving strips also mean no messy spills or bulky bottles to store near your swimwear and lingerie.
Hand-Washing vs. Machine Washing
Hand-washing is the safest method for bras with underwires, molded cups, or delicate lace, as it minimizes friction and distortion. Machine washing can be acceptable for sturdy, everyday bras if you use a mesh laundry bag and a gentle cycle, but it still carries more risk of stretching straps or misshaping cups.
Laundry strips work well for both methods. For hand-washing, dissolve the strip in a basin of cool water before adding your lingerie. For machine washing, place the strip directly in the drum (not the dispenser) so it dissolves fully during the cycle.
Step-by-Step: Washing Lingerie with Laundry Strips
- Check the care label: Before washing, always read the care label on your bra or lingerie. If it says hand-wash only, do not machine wash. If machine wash is allowed, note the recommended water temperature. Skipping this step can lead to shrinkage or damage.
- Prepare the wash water: Fill a clean basin or sink with cool or lukewarm water (never hot). Add one laundry strip and let it dissolve completely. Swirl gently to ensure even distribution. Hot water can set stains and damage elastic.
- Submerge and soak: Place your bras and delicates in the water, gently pressing them down to fully saturate. Let them soak for 5–10 minutes. Avoid scrubbing or twisting, which can distort the shape. Soaking loosens dirt without aggressive rubbing.
- Rinse thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean, cool water. Gently press the lingerie to release soap, then repeat until the water runs clear. Residue can irritate skin and attract dirt. Insufficient rinsing leaves detergent that can cause itching.
- Remove excess water: Lift each piece out and gently squeeze (do not wring) to remove water. Roll the item in a clean, dry towel and press to absorb moisture. This speeds up drying and prevents mildew. Wringing can break underwires and stretch fabric.
- Dry flat, away from heat: Lay bras and delicates flat on a drying rack or towel, reshaping cups and straps. Keep them out of direct sunlight and away from radiators or dryers, which can degrade elastic and fade colors. Never tumble dry lingerie—it will lose its fit.
Products Mentioned
- The Lab Co Laundry Strips 32 Pack Relaxing: The Lab Co Laundry Strips 32 Pack Relaxing are ultra-concentrated, non-bio, and free of phosphates, phthalates, chlorine bleach, and added dyes. These strips clean your delicates without harsh chemicals that can weaken elastic or irritate sensitive skin, making them ideal for regular lingerie care.
The Lab Co Laundry Strips 32 Pack Relaxing - The Lab Co Laundry Strips 32 Pack Refreshing: The Lab Co Laundry Strips 32 Pack Refreshing are paraben-free and contain no phosphates or phthalates, with a bright scent. If you prefer a fresher fragrance, these strips offer the same gentle, non-bio formula for your bras and swimwear.
The Lab Co Laundry Strips 32 Pack Refreshing
