Good day fine reader, nice to welcome you here to a new college of Dutch Designers Outlet her Lingerie and Swimwear expert. In this blog we are going to talk about washing underwear properly. Washing underwear may seem very simple, but there is more to it than meets the eye. It's important for hygiene, maintaining quality and, of course, for the comfort of your favorite lingerie. But what temperature do you use? And which wash cycle is appropriate? I'll take you through the most important questions and give you handy tips!
The importance of hygiene when washing underwear
Hygiene. This is why it is so important to wash your underwear properly. Simply put, underwear comes into direct contact with your skin and intimate areas where it can absorb bacteria and sweat. Washing underwear not only removes dirt but also kills bacteria. Especially after exercising or during hot days, it is important to wash your clothes properly. If you choose the wrong wash temperature, bacteria can be left behind. And of course you want to avoid that!
At how many degrees do you wash underwear in the washing machine?
Many people wonder: wash underwear 40 or 60 degrees? It makes quite a difference! For example, you can wash cotton underwear just fine at 60 degrees. This is warm enough to remove bacteria and odors. Especially if you are washing sports underwear or menstrual underwear. I'll come back to these two specific types of underwear later.
Delicate fabrics such as lace, silk or lingerie with elastic are not resistant to high temperatures. You should wash these underwear at 30 degrees to a maximum of 40 degrees to maintain quality. The best advice is to look at washing instructions listed in the laundry label, that way you can be sure you make the right choice.
Washing underwear at 90 degrees
Washing underwear at 90 degrees is an option, but one you should be careful with! A 90-degree wash can be effective in removing stubborn bacteria and stains, especially after illness or when washing baby or menstrual underwear. But be aware that not every material can withstand such high temperatures. Only cotton underwear is really suitable for this because cotton is a sturdy and heat-resistant material.
Should you wash new underwear before using it?
Yes, absolutely! New underwear comes into contact with chemicals during the manufacturing process. Therefore, it is wise to wash your new addition before putting it on. Wash newly purchased underwear at a mild temperature with a mild detergent. This will remove any residues and it will ensure that your underwear is clean and comfortable for the first time wear.
Advice wash program, detergent and temperatures for types of underwear
State-of-the-art washing machines often have a special underwear washing program that is ideal for washing delicate lingerie. This wash program automatically sets the right temperature and runs the drum at a low speed. This reduces the risk of damage. Don't have such a fancy washing machine in your home? No worries, I am happy to give you some tips for each type of underwear.
Which wash cycle you choose depends on the material of your underwear. For cotton underwear and sports underwear, a standard 60-degree wash cycle is effective in removing bacteria and sweat. But beware, when washing a synthetic fabric such as polyester, choose a program specifically designed for it! For lingerie made of lace, silk, or underwear with elastic, it is best to choose a fine wash program with a lower temperature of 30 to 40 degrees. While doing so, use a mild detergent specifically for delicate fabrics.
Do you wash different types of underwear together? Then sort by color and material. Avoid using fabric softener because it can affect the elasticity of fabrics and shorten the life of your underwear.
Washing sports underwear, some tips for freshness
Sports underwear deserves extra attention. Wash it immediately after use or air it out to prevent odors from sweat and bacteria. Use a 60-degree wash cycle to properly remove bacteria and sweat residue. Choose a mild detergent without fabric softener. Fabric softener can reduce the breathability of sports fabrics. After washing, hang the underwear out to air dry. This is because the dryer can damage the elastic.
How to wash menstrual underwear?
Menstrual underwear is designed to provide extra absorbency during your period. This also means it should be cleaned properly.Rinse underwear by hand under cold water before putting it in the washing machine. This helps to soak off blood stains. Wash menstrual underwear preferably at 40 or 60 degrees, depending on the material. Use a mild detergent without fabric softener to maintain absorbency. Anyway, always check the label inside the panties for specific instructions.
How to wash underwear for longer life
Do you really want to take care of your favorite underwear so that it lasts longer? Then I do have some practical tips for you. Always wash with a mild detergent and use a laundry bag. Sort your laundry by color and material to avoid color bleeding. Avoid fabric softener so as not to reduce the elasticity of underwear. Also pay attention to the laundry label for the correct wash cycle and temperature. This way you will preserve the quality, fit and color of your beautiful lingerie. How to wash bras I explain to you in another blog of mine.
Underpants in the dryer or still better to air dry?
Lace, elastic and delicate fabrics make underwear fragile. The dryer can damage these materials due to the high temperatures. With that temperature, your underwear loses its shape faster because it shrinks and loses elasticity. That's why I recommend air-drying your underwear. Lay it flat on a towel or hang it on a laundry rack. This way the fabric and elastic will retain their quality and your underwear will stay nice and comfortable longer. I understand that using the dryer is easy and saves time, especially in a large family. Only use the dryer for cotton underwear if you really can't do otherwise.
Step-by-step plan for washing underwear
Washing underwear requires attention, but it is well worth it. Extend the lifespan and ensure optimal hygiene of your underwear. You do this by choosing a mild detergent. But also the right wash cycle and wash temperature. Below is a simple step-by-step plan so you can always wash your clothes the right way, hang it by the washing machine:
Sort by color and fabric (for example, cotton knickers separately from lingerie with lace).
