How to Wash Lace Underwear by Hand and Machine

Quick Answer

To wash lace underwear, hand washing is always the gentlest option, but you can also use a washing machine with a mesh bag and delicate cycle. Use cold water and a mild detergent, then air dry flat—never wring or tumble dry.

Lace underwear adds a touch of elegance to your everyday essentials, but it requires a bit of extra care to keep it looking its best. Whether you're washing a delicate lace thong or a favorite bralette, knowing how to properly clean these pieces will extend their life and maintain their shape.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the best methods for hand washing and machine washing lace underwear, including common mistakes to avoid and tips for drying. With the right approach, you can keep your lace lingerie beautiful and comfortable for years to come.

Why Lace Needs Special Care

Lace is a delicate fabric that can easily snag, stretch, or lose its shape if not handled properly. The intricate patterns and fine threads are susceptible to damage from harsh detergents, high heat, and rough agitation. That's why most lace underwear comes with care instructions recommending gentle washing.

Even high-quality lace, like the Signature Lace® used in Hanky Panky thongs, benefits from a little extra attention. By following a few simple rules, you can prevent pilling, fading, and distortion, keeping your underwear looking and feeling like new.

• Always check the care label for specific instructions.
• When in doubt, hand wash—it's the safest method.

How to Hand Wash Lace Underwear

Hand washing is the most gentle way to clean lace underwear and is recommended for delicate items like the Plus Size DreamEase™ Original Rise Thong, which features a soft lace trim. To start, fill a clean sink or basin with cool or lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent specifically designed for delicates or lingerie.

Submerge the underwear and gently swirl it in the water. Avoid scrubbing or twisting, as this can damage the lace. Let it soak for 5 to 10 minutes, then drain the soapy water and rinse thoroughly with clean cool water until no suds remain.

To remove excess water, press the garment between two clean, dry towels. Never wring or twist the fabric, as this can stretch the lace. Lay the underwear flat on a dry towel to air dry, away from direct sunlight and heat.

• Use a lingerie-specific detergent for best results.
• Soak, don't scrub—gentle agitation is key.

How to Machine Wash Lace Underwear

If you prefer machine washing, you can still protect your lace underwear by using a mesh lingerie bag. Place each item in its own bag to prevent snagging on other clothes or zippers. Select the delicate or hand-wash cycle on your machine, and always use cold water.

Choose a mild detergent and avoid bleach or fabric softeners, which can break down elastic fibers. For extra protection, you can add a small amount of lingerie wash to the machine. Once the cycle is complete, remove the items promptly to prevent wrinkles and mildew.

Never put lace underwear in the dryer. High heat can shrink or distort the fabric. Instead, lay the items flat on a towel to air dry. If you're short on time, you can also hang them to dry, but avoid clothespins that might leave marks.

• Always use a mesh bag—never toss lace in loose.
• Skip the dryer; air dry flat for best results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the most common mistakes is using hot water, which can cause lace to shrink or lose its elasticity. Another is using regular detergent, which may contain enzymes that break down delicate fibers. Always opt for a gentle, pH-neutral detergent.

Avoid wringing or twisting wet lace, as this can permanently distort its shape. Similarly, never use a clothes dryer or hang lace in direct sunlight, as UV rays can cause fading. Finally, don't ignore the care label—each garment may have specific instructions.

• Hot water and harsh detergents are lace's worst enemies.
• When in doubt, treat lace like the delicate fabric it is.

Step-by-Step Care Routine

1. Check the care label: Always read the care label on your lace underwear for specific washing instructions. Some pieces may require hand washing only, while others can be machine washed on a delicate cycle. Following the label prevents accidental damage.
2. Pre-treat any stains: If you notice any stains, gently dab them with a mild detergent or stain remover before washing. Avoid rubbing, which can push the stain deeper into the fabric. Pre-treating increases the chance of successful stain removal.
3. Hand wash or machine wash with care: For hand washing, use cool water and a gentle detergent. For machine washing, place the underwear in a mesh bag and select the delicate cycle with cold water. Always opt for the gentlest method available.
4. Rinse thoroughly: Ensure all soap is removed by rinsing in cool water until the water runs clear. Residual detergent can irritate skin and damage fabric over time. Thorough rinsing keeps your skin happy and fabric intact.
5. Dry flat: Press out excess water with a towel, then lay the underwear flat on a dry towel to air dry. Avoid hanging, wringing, or using a dryer. Flat drying preserves the shape and elasticity of the lace.

Lace Underwear That Deserves Gentle Care

• Signature Lace® Original Rise Thong Boysenberry Purple: Our Original Rise Thong needs no introduction–but we’ll give you one anyway. Often imitated, never matched, our #1 thong has been a fan-favorite since it was created in 1986, beloved for its flattering V-front and V-back waistband and feel-good fit. Also known as the World’s Most Comfortable Thong®, the Original Rise Thong stretches and adapts to you while maintaining its shape, with one size comfortably... The delicate Signature Lace® fabric requires gentle washing to maintain its stretch and shape, so hand washing or using a mesh bag is essential.
• Plus Size DreamEase™ Original Rise Thong Chai Sale: DreamEase™ is an eco-friendly Tencel™ Modal blend perfect for lounging, relaxing, and sleeping. This dreamily soft fabric is made from beech wood fibers and feels buttery soft on the skin.The Plus Size Thong is trimmed with soft lace and fits high on the hips. The soft lace trim and eco-friendly fabric benefit from a gentle wash to preserve their buttery feel and prevent damage.

Caring for your lace underwear doesn't have to be complicated. By following these simple hand and machine washing steps, you can keep your delicate pieces looking beautiful and feeling comfortable. Remember: always treat lace with a gentle touch, use cold water and mild detergent, and air dry flat. With the right care, your favorite Hanky Panky lace thongs will stay in great shape for many wears to come.