For those of you trying to Marie Kondo your way through your home, don\u2019t forget your lingerie drawer. Don\u2019t know when to say goodbye to your bras and panties?<\/p>\n
According to Cora Harrington<\/a>, intimate apparel expert and author of\u00a0In Intimate Detail: How to Choose, Wear, and Love Lingerie<\/em>, \u201cThere 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.\u201d<\/p>\n Here are a few signs to look out for:<\/p>\n Signs of damage Stretched elastic<\/strong> No longer supportive<\/strong> It doesn’t fit<\/strong> Now that you’ve gone through your drawers, here\u00a0are some organizations you can consider donating to:<\/p>\n Hanky Panky Lingeriecycle<\/strong><\/a> I Support The Girls<\/strong><\/a> The Bra Recyclers<\/a><\/strong>
\n<\/strong>Life happens and even things like bras can become damaged or broken.\u00a0Kim Caldwell<\/a>, 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.\u201d 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\u00a0pop out!<\/p>\n
\nFalling straps and fabric that rides up when it\u2019s 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\u2019t riding up or sliding down.<\/p>\n
\nFor larger busts, you may feel this in your back and shoulders if your bra isn\u2019t supporting you. When it comes to sports bras, a certain amount of bouncing can tell you the same thing. Whether you\u2019re working out or just running errands, your clothing should support you. Get rid of those that don\u2019t.<\/p>\n
\nWhatever the reason, if your clothing doesn\u2019t fit, it\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n
\nThis 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.<\/p>\n
\nDonate any gently worn bras and underwear to this company, and they\u2019ll redistribute those products to those in need facing homelessness, domestic violence, sex trafficking, and evacuation due to natural disasters.<\/p>\n
\nIn 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.<\/p>\n