Most lingerie can usually be hand washed gently in cold water using a mild detergent, such as Ivory Snow or other similarly gentle soaps. It is very important to rinse the lingerie thoroughly and completely to remove all traces of soap. Always allow lingerie to drip dry naturally or lay it flat on a clean towel to dry. Avoid putting lingerie in the dryer at all costs, as the heat can damage delicate fabrics. If you need to remove wrinkles, you may carefully use gentle steaming as a safe and effective method.

Fine lingerie is an investment that can endure—not a lifetime, but certainly for many years.

By taking the time to care for your lingerie properly and following the recommended washing and storage guidelines, you will significantly extend its lifespan and be able to enjoy its beauty and comfort for many wonderful years to come.

Always read the care label attached to your lingerie.

Manufacturers have an in-depth understanding of their products and the best methods to care for them properly. The care label they provide is always accurate and should be trusted completely. If the label specifically states that the item is dry clean only, it is very important to follow this recommendation carefully. Attempting to wash a dry clean only garment either by machine or by hand can cause significant damage and potentially ruin the fabric, color, or shape of the item.

If you have removed the label from your garment, it is important to follow these general guidelines carefully to ensure proper care and maintenance:

Most lingerie should ideally be hand washed in cold water using a gentle, mild detergent, such as Ivory Snow, to preserve the delicate fabrics and intricate designs. It is very important to rinse the lingerie thoroughly and completely to remove all traces of detergent, as any residue can damage the fabric over time. After washing, always allow lingerie to drip dry naturally or lay it flat on a clean, dry towel to air dry, ensuring it maintains its shape and softness. Never put lingerie in the dryer, as the heat and tumbling action can cause shrinkage, damage, or deformation. For removing wrinkles, you may carefully use gentle steaming, which is a safe alternative to ironing and helps keep the fabric looking fresh and smooth without direct heat contact.

Lynn’s Leather ‘N Lace highly recommends washing your delicate lingerie items in a specialized lingerie wash bag. These wash bags are designed to protect your fine lingerie by preventing it from becoming twisted, stretched, or damaged during the washing cycle. Using a wash bag can significantly extend the life of your delicate pieces. You can easily find and purchase these lingerie wash bags at most lingerie stores, drugstores, and even online retailers.

Caring for Silk – Special Instructions

Silk lingerie is incredibly strong yet exceptionally delicate, so it requires very gentle and careful treatment when washing to maintain its quality and beauty. Always use only a mild soap specifically designed for silk or a specialized silk wash product. Avoid using regular detergent or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the fabric. Begin by soaking the lingerie in warm water for about five minutes to loosen any dirt or oils. Gently agitate the fabric without twisting or wringing it, as this could cause damage or distortion. After soaking, rinse the lingerie thoroughly using cold water to remove all soap residues. For an extra measure, you can add a teaspoon of vinegar to the rinse water, which helps eliminate any remaining soap and restores the fabric’s natural sheen. Once rinsed, carefully roll the lingerie in a clean towel to absorb excess water, then lay it flat to dry naturally. To remove wrinkles, iron the silk while it is still slightly damp, or alternatively, hang the lingerie in a steamy bathroom where the moisture and heat will help smooth out creases without direct heat exposure.

Silk Don’ts

• Don’t expose silk lingerie to direct sunlight as it will fade
• Don’t attempt to clean a spot on silk lingerie with water
• Don’t spray perfume on silk