What happens if you don't wash your bra for a month, according to the experts

If you think it can't really get dirty, think again.


Know how often - and maybe even if - wash certain things can be difficult. When it comes to washing your face, some experts say Once a day, it's good . Once a month, the magic number to clean your washing machine (yes, washing machines need to be washed , Also!). Fruits and vegetables? Yes, wash certainly before eating - Except for pre-lave green vegetables . Meat and poultry? Do not wash Before cooking!

Then there are things we know we should Wash regularly, but don't-like underwear. Yes, underwear. Recent research has shown that One in four men Do not wash their underwear after each port. But And bras ? Supports can become poorly distorted if they are washed too often or incorrectly. What if you jump to wash your bra to say… a month? What would happen? Keep reading to find out.

Read this then: What happens if you don't wash your hair for a week, according to doctors .

Can dirty clothes really This dirty?

pile of dirty laundry on a chair
Damian Lugowski / Shutterstock

If you are wondering if your clothes can really get dirty in general, the answer Yes . "Different types of microbes survive in the clothes For different times, and it is difficult to know if the people or the surfaces with whom you come into contact are infected with harmful microbes, "warns health. AE0FCC31AE342FD3A1346EBB1F342FCB

The site warns that these may include Staphylococcus , and also notes that methicillin Staphylococcus Aureus (STM), a antibiotic infection , was found on public transport. Then yes. Clothes can transport potentially dangerous germs and bacteria, and that's important to wash them .

Your bra could be full of bacteria.

dirty bra with bacteria in the cups
Monning27 / Shutterstock

Since your bra is generally not in contact with surfaces other than your own skin, you might think that it is safe from Staphylococcus and other microbes. But in fact, your body does not need to be on a bus in the city to collect bacteria; He produces his.

"Millions (if not billions) of different types of bacteria can be found around the world, including in your body , "Cleveland Clinic explains, adding that people have about ten times more bacterial cells than they have human cells (your navel alone contains approximately 67 types of bacteria !)

"When you do not wash your bra for a month [or more] ... perspiration, oil and dead skin cells can accumulate and be trapped under your breasts," said Cam Raymond , the director of senior design for Shapewear Company Ruby tape.

Not washing your bra is bad for your skin and the bra.

Woman putting on bra in front of a mirror.
Bymuratdeniz / Istock

You probably know that if you wear a blouse to work, perspiration will accumulate and you will have to wash it. It also happens to your bra, even if it is less obvious. Accumulated sweat and dead skin cells can cause "perfumes, residues and bombing", dermatologist Anna H. Chacon , Said MD. "These unpleasant things are getting more and more without your knowledge, the more you wash your bra, [and] can also cause skin problems that itch like irritation or the reckless," she says Better life .

"Although it is probably" sure "to wear a bra for a month without washing (although can be rude / smelly!), There is a little risk of bacteria and yeasts that accumulate and rub against the skin, especially in skin folds as in breasts and armpits, "warns dermatologist Leah Ansell , MD. "This could lead to intertrigo - which is an inflammation of skin folds - generally due to bacteria, inflammation and / or yeast (or a combo of the three)."

Raymond says that all this accumulated Ickiness is not good for your bra either - but warnings that inappropriate washing can also have wreaking havoc on his fabric, sons and closures. Finding this Sweet Spot where your bra is clean, and also remains in good condition as long as possible, this is the trick.

For more health information sent directly to your reception box, Register for our daily newsletter .

Here's how to wash your bra.

woman's hands washing light pink women's bra in a blue basin.
Fotoduets / Shutterstock

"Washing machines [your bras] can ensure that the fibers disintegrate, leading to wear", advises Elyse Kaye ,, Founder and CEO Bloom support. "Often a good rinsing in the sink can resolve this." Kaye also notes that bras must be dried in the air, rather than thrown into the dryer.

"I suggest machine wash with A gentle detergent In cold water, then line [dry] or place flat to dry, "says Raymond." Put [the bras] in a mesh clothes bag also protects the product during washing, to avoid losing their shape or cups. ""

Raymond suggests washing your bra after two to three clothes, while Chacon advises "washing bras at least once a week to keep them clean and protect your skin".


A major red flag that you should not eat in a restaurant, says health inspector
A major red flag that you should not eat in a restaurant, says health inspector
8 most beautiful fashion moments of Lizzo
8 most beautiful fashion moments of Lizzo
19 foods with more carbohydrates than a bowl of pasta
19 foods with more carbohydrates than a bowl of pasta