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Can You Wash a Corset?
NEWSLETTER
10/15/20262 min read
Until last week I had put off washing my favorite bra. It’s a goldenrod floral lace, which means handwashing in the sink. It’s a new bra and I haven’t handwashed a piece in a while. I put if off, for weeks.
But last weekend I finally bit the bullet and got it done. And it took me 5 minutes.
Five. Minutes.
By the time I washed it, I had probably spent more time telling myself I needed to wash it, than it took to actually clean it.
While I had my hands in the sink, swishing this pretty thing around, I thought of my clients and women I’ve chatted with who are thinking about getting their first corset.
A very common request is that the corset be easily cleanable. Being “easily cleanable” is a convoluted phrase that always requires unpacking. Easily cleanable compared to a ballgown or as easy as throwing a towel in the wash?
You can’t put a corset in the washing machine. I mean you can, but really, please don’t.
The structure of the corset is supported by bones. These are typically made from plastic or steel, and throwing them in the washing machine distorts their shape.
Corsets with steel bones can’t get wet because there is no way to dry the bones hidden between layers of fabric and over time they will rust.
Synthetic whalebone, made from plastic, can get wet! Which means a corset made with only synthetic whalebone and a washable fabric can be handwashed in the sink.
Sometimes when I hear people request a corset that is easy to clean I feel like the grim reaper telling them that the best case is being able to handwash their corset. In these modern times, we’re so used to the washing machine, that any other method automatically seems “difficult”.
After washing my lace bra, I’ve refreshed my perspective. It’s actually quite easy. I’d even say satisfying, watching the piece go from full of stench, to seeing grime transfer to the water and pulling out a garment that smells good. It’s different from what we’re used to, but different doesn’t have to equal bad. A bonus? If you’re also concerned about longevity in your clothing, handwashing won’t just protect the corset bones, it will also help the fabric last longer.
Washing isn’t the only consideration when getting a corset, of course. There’s fit, fabric, price. The list goes on. But if difficult care was on your list, feel free to move your attention on to the next worry.
Or, if you’re worried, but also really interested, reach out to me about what’s possible. We can talk about it.
