Laundering that Lingerie

Be kind to your lingerie when you launder, says our Fashion correspondent.

Ever wondered why even the most expensive lingerie loses its shape and color after a few washes? The devil is in your laundering methods, my friend! Your lingerie is as good as the care you bestow on it. If you want your lingerie to retain its shape and lustre, remember to follow these basic rules. 

Before we start, answer one question. What do you do with those tags that come with every intimate product? If you're the kind that nukes those tags, as soon as you cart your stuff home, hold it!

Keep those Tags: Those tags are not hogwash! If the tag says wash in cold water, then do not use hot or lukewarm water. You'll only cause your lingerie to sag and lose its shape. If you machine wash, you can use lingerie wash bags. Available in most lingerie shops, these bags will help you save your lingerie from playing rough-house with your other garments.

DO: Wash in cold water: Always use cold water or the gentle cycle of your washing machine and rinse thoroughly. ALWAYS wash colors separately, including similar lingerie products. Remember to hook, fasten or buckle products before you wash to avoid tangling. Dry: Drip dry or dry flat away from sunlight. If you must dry in the machine, tumble dry on a low and cool setting with items still in the lingerie wash bag. Dry clean: If your tag says dry clean, then you should always do so without fail. This instruction may imply that the fabric and structure of the item cannot sustain normal washing methods or products.

DON'T: Washing you lingerie loosely with other products. Because of their delicate structure, many lingerie items can get twisted and stretched in this process.  Do not soak or bleach intimates. It's a sureshot way to lose color and structure.  Also avoid using detergents that you use with your other laundry.  Tumble dry loosely with other products. Once again, your items may twist and stretch. Also, avoid line drying, as creases and stretching may occur. Keep your intimates out of the sun! Finally, do not iron your lingerie. If absolutely necessary, use gentle steaming to remove wrinkles. Never, ever twist or wring your lingerie.