Is it time to replace your bra?
9 signs it’s time to replace your bra ASAP
Let’s be real: when was the last time you shopped for a new bra? If the answer is more than six months ago, there’s a good chance your bra has worn out its welcome. In fact, experts recommend replacing bras every six months—or after about 180 wears.
“If you have a large selection of bras in rotation, you can go longer than six months before replacing your bras if you’re caring for those bras properly “Putting your bras in the dryer breaks down the elastic much more quickly, so save your bras from an untimely death by letting them air dry and hand wash them when possible (more realistically at least wash on a delicate in a wash bag available in store and online)
No matter how many bras you own or how well you care for them, every bra has an expiration date, thanks to weight fluctuations and natural wear and tear. Here’s how to know when it’s time to buy a new bra, according to experts.
- The Back Is Stretched Out
The back of a bra naturally stretches out over time. When this happens the hook system allows you to close your bra on a tighter position to get back the snug feeling of a band that fits your chest properly. However, when the band is so stretched out that it feels too loose even on the tightest hook, that’s a red flag that it’s time for a new bra.
- Cups Are Stretched Out or Too Big
The breast is not supported and the shape of the bra shows through your clothes instead of offering smooth curves.
- Cups Are Too Small
- Straps Are Loose
There are few things as annoying as constantly having to adjust a bra strap that keeps sliding down your shoulder—if this is happening, it’s a clear sign that it’s time for a change. The strap is the bridge between the cup and the back of the bra. It helps support the weight of the breast while ensuring that the cups hug it smoothly.
- Painful Underwire
We all know there’s nothing quite like the pain of an underwire poking out and digging into sensitive skin. Even if you try to put it back in and sew the area shut, that’s a temporary fix and it will likely come out again. Get rid of it!
- Fabric Breakdown
Fabric has a lifespan depending on your wearing and washing cycle. If you notice that the fabric is breaking down and/ or the overall fabric is losing its stretch, your bra isn’t right and is no longer doing it’s job.
- Your Bra Has Hair
If you’ve ever seen little hair-like threads of elastic popping out of your bra, you’re too late—your bra has definitely reached the end of it’s life. Those hairs mean the elastic in your bra has broken. Since 80 percent of your bra’s support comes from a band that’s firmly anchored on your body, a bra without elastic can’t give you sufficient support. It’s hard enough for a small bit of fabric to do its job! If you take away the elastic, a bra won’t have the needed structure to lift your breasts.
- The Colour Is Faded or Dingy
If your light-coloured bra has started to look a bit dingy or dirty, or the dark colour is fading it – it’s time to ditch it!
- Your Taste Has Changed
Sometimes a bra can get dull over time or your style changes. It’s always important to choose a bra that makes you feel happy, comfortable, and most importantly empowered.