Feature Image by Uliana Kopanytsia
For those of you trying to Marie Kondo your way through your home, don’t forget your lingerie drawer. Don’t know when to say goodbye to your bras and panties?
According to Cora Harrington, intimate apparel expert and author of In Intimate Detail: How to Choose, Wear, and Love Lingerie, “There is no hard and fast deadline for when you should toss your bras. Some people say six months. Some people say one year. However, I believe it all comes down to when your bra stops doing its job.”
Here are a few signs to look out for:
Signs of damage
Life happens and even things like bras can become damaged or broken. Kim Caldwell, undergarment educator and lingerie marketing coach, advises keeping an eye out for things like if “the underwire popped out, the hooks and eyes are damaged, or the cup has become dented or smashed.” Handwashing is strongly encouraged, but the dryer is the biggest no-no when it comes to intimates. Kim says improper washing is the number one reason why underwires pop out!
Stretched elastic
Falling straps and fabric that rides up when it’s not supposed to are both signs the elastic in your garments are damaged. Not only is it super annoying, but it also impacts the all-important fit factor for items like bras. For athletic items, check that the waistband and leg openings aren’t riding up or sliding down.
No longer supportive
For larger busts, you may feel this in your back and shoulders if your bra isn’t supporting you. When it comes to sports bras, a certain amount of bouncing can tell you the same thing. Whether you’re working out or just running errands, your clothing should support you. Get rid of those that don’t.
It doesn’t fit
Whatever the reason, if your clothing doesn’t fit, it’s time to say goodbye. This is especially crucial for items like bras where the fit is dependent on many factors, so make sure to check if the cup size and shape, band size, and strap adjustments really fit your body.
Now that you’ve gone through your drawers, here are some organizations you can consider donating to:
Hanky Panky Lingeriecycle
This option is best for items that are too worn or damaged to be donated. Hanky Panky will shred your old bras and panties and the converted fabric is used for carpet padding.
I Support The Girls
Donate any gently worn bras and underwear to this company, and they’ll redistribute those products to those in need facing homelessness, domestic violence, sex trafficking, and evacuation due to natural disasters.
The Bra Recyclers
In addition to gently used regular bras, this company also accepts sports bras. Then, they allocate your donations to those in need or give them to recycling centers so the fabric can be reused.
Bras for a Cause
Specifically created to support breast cancer survivors, this company accepts your gently used bras and swimsuits. They’ll even accept cancer survivor items like prosthetic bra inserts or post-mastectomy bras.
Free The Girls
We love that this company creates jobs for survivors of sex trafficking, and they use your bras to do it!
xx, The FabFitFun Team
