Our Best Tips for Washing Your Mastectomy Bras

Mastectomy bras are specifically designed to cater to your needs as a breast cancer survivor and have been engineered with features that give you optimal comfort and support post-mastectomy. So, to keep them performing correctly, you need to give your Jodee bras, and other mastectomy bra brands care and attention if you want them to last. Here are our best tips to clean and maintain your mastectomy bras.

Hand Washing

Hand washing is the method recommended by nearly all intimate apparel brands as it is the most gentle and effective way to clean your mastectomy bras.

Simply fill a laundry tub with warm water and add a mild detergent. Soak the bras for approximately an hour, then gently rub the fabric together. Focus on the underarm areas and the under bust bands. Rinse thoroughly in clean water until it runs clear. Lay the bra flat on a clean towel and gently press with another towel to remove excess water, then air dry.

Machine Washing

Of course, not everyone has the time to hand wash every piece of lingerie they own regularly. While hand washing your mastectomy bras is the gentlest way to get them clean and retain their shape, there are a few ways that you can use the washing machine to speed up the cleaning process.

Use the gentlest setting. This is the setting used for washing delicates and synthetics like curtains and lace. It is typically at a low temperature and the lowest spin cycle. This means that you should use laundry detergent formulated for cold temperatures to be most effective.

Always hook the backs of your mastectomy bras to get to avoid getting them caught. Place each bra in a separate mesh lingerie bag to prevent tangling. You could also use a pillowcase if you do not have lingerie laundry bags. If the mastectomy bras have removable padding or cups, take them out after the spin cycle and carefully reshape them with your hands before drying.

No Dryers

It’s tempting to throw everything in the dryer once it is washed; however, the heat and friction from the dryer can weaken the elasticity of the bras, wear out delicate details like embroidery or lace, and if you have an underwire mastectomy bra, cause the seams holding the wires in places to split.

Whether you hand or machine wash, always air dry your mastectomy bras by lying it flat. Reshape your cups and unhook the closures before laying it flat to dry.

Mild Detergents

Using a gentle detergent is not only suitable for your bra; it is also good for sensitive skin around your surgical site. Mild detergents that are alcohol-free won’t erode the bra fabric. You can find detergents specially formulated for lingerie or use a lower concentration of regular detergent.

No Bleach

Never use bleach on your mastectomy bras. While some cotton mastectomy bras may indicate that bleach can be used, keep in mind that not all bra components respond well to exposure to bleach such as straps and closures. It can also harm your skin if the bra is not rinsed thoroughly after handwashing. If there is a stubborn stain, consider using an active oxygen stain remover at target the stain instead.

Wash Occasionally

Your bra is part of your intimate apparel wardrobe, but unlike panties, they can be worn more than once and do not need to be washed as frequently unless you are sweating heavily. This stops the elastic from wearing out too quickly.

The exception to this is your mastectomy sports bra which is constructed of heavy duty synthetic materials that can withstand more regular washing. Washing your mastectomy sports bar after every use is important to prevent the build-up of bacteria as it can irritate the skin.

It is recommended that you wash your mastectomy bra after every 2- times that you wear it depending on the climate and your activity level. Keep 4 or 5 different mastectomy bras in your underwear rotation, so you always have the right kind of support and comfort for your breast forms.

Final Thoughts

Keep your Jodee bras and other mastectomy bras in top condition with these simple cleaning tips. If you are interested in mastectomy bra care or want to add some more gorgeous mastectomy bras to your wardrobe, contact us at MastectomyShop.com on (877)-912-0775 to speak with our experienced staff.