How to Keep Your Nursing Bras Fresh & Clean (Without Ruining Them!)

Nursing bras are your constant companion during the early days of motherhood, providing you with comfort, support, and easy access for breastfeeding. But between spills, leaks, and the demands of new motherhood, keeping them fresh and clean can feel like a challenge.

The last thing you want is for your nursing bras to lose their shape or elasticity. Thankfully, with the right care, your nursing bras can stay fresh, functional, and comfortable for months to come.

Here’s how to keep them looking and feeling great, all while ensuring they last as long as possible.

1. Understanding Your Nursing Bra Fabric

Before we dive into cleaning tips, it’s important to understand the fabric of your nursing bras. Most nursing bras are made from a blend of cotton, spandex, and/or polyester, all of which have specific care needs. These materials are designed for stretch and support, but they also require a gentle touch to maintain their shape and integrity.

Care tip: Always read the care label on your nursing bra to know the best way to treat it. 

2. Hand-Washing Is Your Best Friend 

The gentlest method of cleaning your nursing bras is hand washing. While machine washing is convenient, it can be tough on delicate fabrics and the elastic bands that provide support. Hand washing will help keep your bra’s shape intact and reduce wear and tear.

Here’s how to hand wash your nursing bras:

1. Fill a basin with lukewarm water and add a gentle detergent (look for something mild, like baby detergent or one designed for delicates).
2. Gently submerge your bra in the water, giving it a light swirl to ensure even saturation.
3. Let it soak for about 10-15 minutes. This will help loosen any buildup without being too harsh.
4. Gently rub the fabric with your fingers, focusing on the areas with the most buildup (like the straps and cups). Don’t scrub or wring—just a light, soothing massage will do the trick. 
5. Rinse thoroughly in cool water until all the detergent is gone.

3. Machine Washing (If You Must) 

If you’re short on time or have a lot of bras to wash, you can machine wash them, but use caution. To keep them in the best condition:

1. Use a lingerie bag: This will help protect your bras from friction with other garments and prevent the straps from getting tangled. 
2. Turn them inside out: This helps to prevent direct friction on the outer fabric and will reduce pilling. 
3. Use a gentle cycle: Set your washing machine to the delicate cycle with cold water. This will prevent the elastic from stretching out and help protect the fabric. 
4. Mild detergent: Use a gentle, fragrance-free detergent designed for delicates to prevent irritation to sensitive skin. 

4. Drying Your Nursing Bras the Right Way 

After washing, it’s important to dry your nursing bras properly to avoid damaging the elastic or fabric. Here are the key tips:

• Avoid the dryer: Never toss your nursing bras into the dryer—heat can break down the elastic and cause the fabric to shrink.
• Air dry: Lay your bras flat on a clean towel to air dry. Reshape the cups and straps gently to their original form. You can also hang them up using a bra hanger or hang them by the straps to avoid stretching the band.
• Avoid direct sunlight: While it’s okay to air dry your bras outside, try to keep them in the shade. Direct sunlight can weaken the fabric and fade the colors. 

5. Storing Your Nursing Bras 

Proper storage can help your nursing bras keep their shape and elasticity. Avoid cramming your bras into drawers or leaving them in piles. Instead:

• Fold each bra neatly by tucking in the straps to prevent tangling.
• Store them in a cool, dry place. Avoid damp environments, as they can cause mildew.
• Use a drawer divider or bra organizer to keep your bras separated and avoid unnecessary stretching.

6. Preventing Odor & Stains 

No one likes the smell of stale milk or the appearance of stains. Here are a few tips to keep your nursing bras smelling fresh and clean:

• Use a stain remover: If you notice milk stains, treat them immediately with a gentle stain remover or a small amount of baking soda. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach, which can damage the fabric. 
• Freshen up with a fabric spray: A natural fabric freshener can help maintain freshness in between washes. Avoid heavily scented sprays, as they may irritate your sensitive skin. 
• Rinse after each use: If you’ve had a particularly leaky day, rinse your bras after wearing them to prevent buildup and odors from setting in. 

7. When to Replace Your Nursing Bra 

Nursing bras don’t last forever, and it’s important to replace them when they show signs of wear. Here are some signs that it might be time for a new nursing bra:

• The elastic is stretched out and doesn’t provide enough support.
• The fabric feels thin or damaged.
• The band no longer fits comfortably around your ribcage.

Keep Your Nursing Bras Fresh & Long-Lasting

Your nursing bras are a vital part of your postpartum journey, and with the right care, they can last and provide the support you need. By hand washing, air drying, and taking the time to store them properly, you can keep them fresh, comfortable, and ready to support you as you care for your little one. 

Remember, nursing bras are an investment in your comfort and self-care—take good care of them, and they’ll take good care of you like we do at Bloom & Heal! 

FAQs

Q: How often should I wash my nursing bras?

A: It’s best to wash your nursing bras every 2–3 wears, or sooner if there are leaks or milk stains. Frequent washing helps prevent odor buildup and maintains hygiene for both you and your baby.

Q: Can I put my nursing bra in the dryer?

A: No, it’s not recommended. The heat from the dryer can damage the elastic and fabric, causing the bra to lose its shape and support. Always air dry your nursing bras flat or hang them by the center gore or straps.

Q: What’s the best detergent for washing nursing bras?

A: Use a mild, fragrance-free detergent that’s safe for sensitive skin—baby detergents or ones made for delicates work best. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals, as they can weaken the fabric and irritate your skin.

Q: How do I get breast milk stains out of my nursing bras?

A: Gently spot-treat stains with baking soda paste or a mild stain remover safe for delicates. Let it sit for a few minutes before hand washing or rinsing with cool water.