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how to wash shapewear?

Published by admin December 05,2025

As a premier shapewear manufacturer, we rigorously test our fabrics to ensure durability, but proper care is the final step to longevity.

Shapewear is an investment. Its effectiveness relies on special elastic fabrics (usually Spandex/Elastane and Nylon) and precision engineering. While these materials offer incredible shaping, they are highly sensitive to heat and harsh chemicals.

To prevent your shapewear from losing its elasticity, warping, or fading, please strictly follow these professional cleaning and maintenance steps.


 

Phase 1: Initial Treatment (First Wash)

Before wearing your new shapewear for the first time—especially black or dark-colored items—it requires a special "color-locking" treatment.

  • The Cold Salt Water Soak: Prepare a basin of cold water, add a moderate amount of table salt, and stir until completely dissolved.

  • Soaking Time: Submerge the new garment and soak for about 20 minutes.

  • Why? Salt acts as a natural fixative to lock in the dye, preventing future color bleeding. It also washes away industrial dust or residues from the manufacturing process.


 

Phase 2: Choosing the Right Detergent

Selecting the correct detergent is critical for protecting the fibers.

  • ✅ Recommended:

    • Neutral Detergent or Lingerie-Specific Wash (the most gentle option).

    • Gentle Body Wash or Baby Shampoo (like Johnson's) is are excellent alternative if you don't have specific laundry soap.

  • ❌ Strictly Prohibited:

    • Powder Detergent: The granules cause friction damage to the fabric surface, and the high alkalinity can stiffen the fibers.

    • Bleach: This is the #1 enemy of shapewear. It corrodes elastic fibers, causing the garment to snap, lose elasticity, and discolor.

  • ⚠️ Crucial Technique:

    • Dissolve First: Always mix the detergent into the water until it bubbles before putting the clothes in. Never pour concentrated detergent directly onto dry fabric, as this can cause chemical burns and spot fading.


 

Phase 3: The Washing Technique

To protect the internal memory boning and elastic fibers, Hand Washing is the only way.

  • Method: Hand Wash Only. Do not use a washing machine. The strong rotation and agitation of the machine will destroy the structure and warp the garment.

  • Temperature Control: strict adherence to Cold Water (below 30°C / 86°F). Hot water breaks down the molecular structure of Spandex, causing it to lose its "snap-back" ability.

    • Special Note: If there are blood stains, you must use cold water. Hot water cooks the protein in the blood, setting the stain permanently.

  • Technique:

    • Soak for 5-10 minutes to loosen oils and dirt.

    • Gently press and rub with your hands, focusing on the underarms and crotch area.

    • Wash Separately: Do not wash with light colors (to prevent dye transfer) or rough items like denim/towels (to prevent pilling).


 

Phase 4: Drying and Airing (Say No to Heat)

The drying process is where most mistakes happen.

  1. Absorb Water (Do Not Twist):

    • Never wring the garment like a dishrag.

    • Correct Method: Lay the wet shapewear flat on a dry, fluffy bath towel. Roll the towel up like a sushi roll and gently press down to let the towel absorb the excess water.

  2. Air Dry (Flat Drying):

    • Lay Flat: Lay the garment flat on a drying rack. If you must hang it, fold it over the bar of the hanger at the waist. Do not hang by the shoulder straps, as the weight of the water will stretch them out.

    • Shade Only: Dry in a ventilated, shaded area.

    • Prohibited: NO Direct Sunlight (UV rays accelerate aging) and NO Tumble Dryer (High heat instantly destroys elasticity).


 

Phase 5: Storage & Maintenance

  • Frequency: Wash 1-2 times per week. If you sweat heavily (e.g., in summer), wash after every wear to prevent sweat acidity from eroding the fabric.

  • Storage:

    • Fold the shapewear neatly when not in use.

    • Store it on the top layer of your drawer. Do not crush it under heavy winter coats or denim, which can bend the boning or flatten the cups.


Summary: Follow the 4-Step Mantra: "Cold Water, Hand Wash, Neutral Soap, Flat Dry." Do this, and your shapewear will keep your silhouette perfect for years to come.