How Often Should You Change Your Bra? Our Care & Hygiene Tips
A bra is a delicate garment that accompanies you through long days filled with movement and body heat. Sitting directly against the skin, it supports and protects the sensitive breast area. That’s why it’s so important to change your bra regularly. As much as we might love our favorite model, wearing it for too long or washing it too rarely can lead to discomfort, skin irritation, and premature fabric wear.
Changing Your Bra Regularly: Why and How Often?
So, how often should you change your bra? The general recommendation is: after two days at the latest—or even daily, if needed. More frequent changes are especially important if:
- You have sensitive skin or are prone to breakouts on your upper body
- You exercise or move a lot throughout the day
- You sweat heavily (especially in summer or on active days)
Tip: Invest in three to five well-fitting bras for everyday wear that you can rotate. This gives you enough time to wash, air out, and reshape each bra in between wears.
Bacteria in Bras Can Cause Infections
Many women don’t realize how important it is to change bras frequently. But why so often?
Bras sit directly on areas of particularly delicate skin. Sweat and friction—especially between the cups and under the bust—can easily cause irritation, redness, or breakouts. Wearing a bra for too long allows bacteria to accumulate, which can lead to inflammation or even fungal infections.
Bras Stretch Out and Lose Their Shape
It’s not just your skin that suffers from over-worn bras—so does the material. Elastic fibers need time to recover to maintain their original shape. Without this rest, the straps stretch out, the underband loses tension, and the cups may no longer provide proper support.
Especially with high-quality bras featuring intricate details, like those from Aubade, regular breaks are essential for longevity. Our recommendation: let each bra rest or wash it gently after no more than two wears.
Our Tips to Care for Your Bras and Protect Your Skin
Changing your bra every two days is a good start—but what comes next? Here’s how to care for your skin and your bras between wears:
Take Off Your Bra at Night
No matter how comfortable your bra may be, your skin needs a break at night. Wearing a bra around the clock can restrict blood flow and put unnecessary strain on connective tissue. Let your skin breathe while you sleep—your body and your bras will thank you.
Quick Hand Wash in the Evening
If you don’t want to run the washing machine daily, hand washing your bra is quick and effective. Use lukewarm water and a gentle detergent—perfect for delicate pieces with rhinestones, lace, or French embroidery.
Change Immediately After Heavy Sweating
After a hot day, workout, or any activity that causes you to sweat: change your bra right away. This helps prevent bacteria buildup and protects the fabric.
Washing Bras in the Machine – Gently and Thoroughly
Sometimes, a quick machine wash is necessary. Follow these tips to clean your bras while protecting them:
- Use a laundry bag to protect lace and underwires
- Close all hooks to prevent tangling
- Choose a delicate wash cycle at a maximum of 30°C (86°F)
- Use a mild detergent—no fabric softener
- Never tumble dry bras; lay them flat to air dry
With proper care, even the most delicate lingerie made of lace or silk will stay beautiful for many wears.
Conclusion: Change and Wash Your Bras More Often
How often you should change your bra depends on your skin, lifestyle, and the season. But one thing is always true: a freshly washed bra is healthier and more hygienic. Especially during summer or active days, it’s best to change bras daily.
At the same time, regular gentle washing—by hand or on a delicate cycle—helps keep your favorite pieces in top shape. After all, a bra isn’t just underwear: it’s part of your sensuality, your presence, and your lifestyle—more than enough reason to give it the attention it deserves.