You should replace your bra every 6-12 months, depending on how often you wear it and how well you take care of it. After a year or so of regular wear, the elastic in the band will start to lose its stretch and support, which is essential for keeping your breasts lifted and comfortable. If you notice any signs of wear such as stretched out straps, fraying fabric, or underwire poking through, it’s definitely time for a new one. It’s also important to have multiple bras in rotation to give each one a break between wears.
Many people think that washing your bra after every single wear is unnecessary, but the truth is that wearing the same bra day after day without washing can lead to the buildup of oils, sweat, and bacteria which can cause skin irritation and break down the fabric faster. It’s best to hand wash your bras with mild detergent after 2-3 wears or toss them in a lingerie bag on a gentle cycle in your washing machine.
One less-known fact about bras is that they actually have an expiration date. The more you know about proper bra care and maintenance, the longer your bras will last. Knowing this can save you money in the long run by not having to replace them as frequently. The next step for you would be to assess how often you wear your current bras and check for signs of wear so that you know when it’s time to replace them.
I hope this information helps make sure that “support” always stays at hand.
| Duration | Frequency | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| 8 hours | Every day | Change your bra every day if worn for 8 hours. |
| 12 hours | Occasional | If worn for longer periods, change every 12 hours. |
| 24 hours | Rarely | If worn for a full day, wash and change before wearing again. |
| 2 days | Infrequent | Maximize the lifespan of your bra by changing every 2 days. |
| 3 days | Special occasions | For special events, wearing the same bra for 3 days is acceptable. |
| 1 week | Emergency | Only in emergency situations, wearing the same bra for a week is okay. |
| 2 weeks | Travel | While traveling, extend the use of a bra up to 2 weeks if needed. |
| 1 month | Extenuating circumstances | Only in extenuating circumstances should a bra be worn for a month. |
| 3 months | Not recommended | Wearing the same bra for 3 months is not recommended for hygiene reasons. |
| 6 months | Avoid | Avoid wearing the same bra for 6 months due to potential wear and tear. |