How to Wash Your Sports Bra
Take care of your sports bra. Learn how to wash your sports bras, how many times you can wear a bra between washes and how to extend the life of your bras.
How to Wash a Sports Bra in the Washing Machine
Proper care helps your sports bras stay fresh and supportive for more miles. The best way to machine wash a sports bra is to use cold water, a gentle cycle, and a small amount of mild detergent and then let it air dry. Follow these tips to ensure your bra supports you to its fullest potential.
- Check the care label. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions first, since materials and construction can vary.
- Prepare the bra. Fasten hook-and-eye closures, secure any hook-and-loop straps and remove removable pads.
- Use a mesh laundry bag. This helps prevent straps, closures and fabric from snagging or becoming tangled with other clothing.
- Wash it gently. Use cold water and a delicate cycle with a mild detergent or one made for performance fabrics. Skip fabric softener and dryer sheets, which can interfere with moisture-wicking materials.
- Let it air dry. Reshape the cups, then lay the bra flat or place it on a drying rack. Avoid hanging it by the straps or putting it in the dryer, since heat and stretching can weaken the elastic and affect the fit.
How to Hand Wash a Sports Bra
Hand washing is a gentler, more hands-on method that will keep your bras happier for longer. The best way to hand wash a sports bra is to soak it in cool water with a mild detergent, then rinse and air dry.
- Fill the sink. Add cool water to a sink or basin along with a small amount of mild detergent.
- Soak the bra. Let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes, then gently work the soapy water through the fabric.
- Rinse thoroughly. Rinse until the water runs clear and no soap remains.
- Dry it properly. Press out excess water without wringing or twisting, reshape the cups, then lay flat or place on a drying rack to air dry.
How Often Should You Wash a Sports Bra?
Some things work better when you don’t put them through the washer: Cast iron skillets, suede jackets, your fancy smartphone.
Your bra is not one of those things. But you might not need to wash it as much as you think.
If you’re a runner, you are going to sweat in your sports bra, and it might take a dunk in a pool or in the ocean, especially if you’re training for a triathlon. Here are some tips for how frequently you should toss it in the washing machine.
- Give it a sniff. If you wore your sports bra on Monday but on Wednesday it still doesn’t smell like a gym bag, you can probably wear it again before putting it through the spin cycle. Fewer washes mean a longer life. If it’s stinky, though, give it a wash.
- Taking a dip? Chlorine from a pool and saltwater from the ocean—not to mention sunscreens and tanning oils—could affect your bras differently than sweat alone. You should wash your bra each time it goes for a swim to keep it in top shape.
How to Tell if Your Sports Bra is Worn Out
Even with proper care, your sports bra will eventually wear out and lose its support. Loose straps, a stretched-out band, fraying fabric and changes in fit are all signs that may tell you when you need to replace your sports bra:
- Loose straps. Your bra’s straps use elastic to help support you. If they feel loose and slide around, it may be time to replace your bra.
- Loose band. The band provides much of your bra’s support. If it rides up, feels stretched out or starts causing chafing, look for a replacement.
- Changes in color. Faded, dull or yellowish fabric can be a sign of age and repeated wear, especially when paired with changes in fit or elasticity.
- Fraying or exposed hardware. Retire your sports bra if the fabric begins to fray or any clasps, wires or other hardware become exposed.
How to Make Your Sports Bras Last Longer
When you find a sports bra that fits well, you want to hang on to it. And let's face it, good sports bras aren’t exactly cheap, so you don’t want to have to replace them early because you didn’t take care of them properly.
To make your sports bras last longer:
- Keep your bras out of the dryer. High heat can weaken the elastic in the band, which provides much of your bra’s support. After washing, lay your bra flat or place it on a drying rack to air dry, following the instructions on its care label.
- Own several bras. Aim to own at least three sports bras. Rotating between them reduces the strain on each one and gives them time to dry completely between workouts. Keep one to wear, one in the wash and one clean and ready in your drawer for whatever adventure comes next.
(This article was reviewed and updated by Madeline Gentzel on July 29, 2026)
