We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we believe in. Pricing and availability are subject to change.
Here’s how often you should replace your bras, according to an expert
Poking wires, snapped elastic, broken hooks — the qualities of a past-its-prime bra are easy to spot. But many of us ignore the signs, wearing bras until they are simply threads. That’s not the way it should be, though.
Chances are, your underwear drawer is full of bras begging to be replaced. But exactly how often should you replace your bras? It turns out the answer isn’t so simple.
Alicia Miller, director of merchandising and fit specialist for intimates brand Chantelle, tells In The Know there are three key factors that help define a bra’s lifespan. First, and arguably most important, is your bra’s fit.
“If a bra fits properly, then it is able to work for you properly, meaning not harder than it has to,” Miller says. “When we see underwires popping out or straps breaking, most of the time, this is because of a fit issue.”
Second to fit is the overall quality of your bra. Miller says bras of better quality tend to last longer, leading Miller — and Chantelle — to live by the motto “buy less, buy better.”
“This also means less frequently,” Miller says of the mantra. “If you purchase a quality product that is designed to last in the way that Chantelle is, your bras last longer, and you don’t need to replace them as often.”
Third and finally, a bra’s lifespan depends on the work it puts in. Simply put, you want your bra collection to work smarter, not harder.
“We recommended one to wash, one to wear, and one or two spare, not including your solutions bras like strapless or sports bras,” Miller says of Chantelle’s customer recommendations. That means having three to four bras in your regular daily rotation — one in the wash from yesterday’s wear, one you are wearing today and one or two recouping and waiting for their turn in the rotation.
“Bras need a break! So not wearing a bra two days in a row and swapping in another favorite is key to longevity,” Miller says.
If you follow these three “rules,” Miller says a top-quality bra can still be at peak performance a year later. Yes, an entire year. If not, a bra can wear out in less than six months. Yikes.
Signs you should replace your bra
As Miller said, if you see your underwire popping out or straps breaking, you likely have a fit issue. This is an obvious sign you should replace your bra — and invest in a professional fitting.
She adds, “Typical signs [that you should replace your bra] are the band riding up far on the back while on the tightest hook, straps falling off your shoulders, or cups gapping or digging in at the top.”
But there is another simple way to gauge whether your bra needs replacing — and it all comes in how you feel in your bra.
“When you start to question how [a bra] looks and feels when you wear it, it’s probably time to think of replacing,” Miller says. Because why waste your days in a less-than-perfect bra?
What to look for in a replacement
So what makes a good replacement for your ill-fitting bra? Aside from a quality brand and a proper fit, the perfect bra is truly subjective.
“Looking great and feeling great is possible in a bra,” Miller insists. “Quality undergarments consist of comfort, support, and style— not just one of these.”
Miller adds: “You should look for a bra that feels amazing on and looks as good as it feels — whatever that means to you.”
Needless to say, picking out the perfect bra is highly personal — and it can be a touch overwhelming. If you need help picking out a new perfect-for-you bra, check out these best-selling recommendations from Chantelle and more quality bra retailers.
1. Chantelle Norah Comfort Underwire Bra, $78
Supportive yet comfortable, this bestselling Chantelle bra has an extra-wide band to help smooth around your back. The full-coverage lace cups are pretty yet practical and lay smooth under any top. Reinforced straps won’t dig into your shoulder, adding to that all-day comfort, too.
3. Harper Wilde Base T-Shirt Bra, $45
This light-lined underwire bra feels like you are wearing nothing at all. Made with silky microfiber fabric, it’s soft yet supportive, making it your perfect everyday go-to. Plus, it’s super-affordable for a top-quality bra.
3. ThirdLove 24/7 Classic T-Shirt Bra, $72
This bestselling bra by ThirdLove features an ultra-thin memory foam that molds to your shape. The demi-coverage bra comes with non-slip straps and a smoothing back strap. Coming in a wide range of cup and band sizes, the 24/7 Classic T-Shirt Bra also comes in half-cup sizes for a perfect fit.
4. SKIMS Fits Everybody Plunge Bra, $52
With a wide range of band and cup sizes available, this highly rated SKIMS bra comes lightly lined in a super-soft material. It features a supportive underwire, adjustable straps and a plunge cut for your low necklines.
5. Natori Feathers Underwire Contour Bra, $72
A favorite bra of In The Know editors, the Natori Feathers Underwire Contour Bra is both romantic and practical. The pretty plunge bra with contour cups has more than 3.6 reviews on Nordstrom, with 74% of customers giving the design a five-star rating.
The post Here’s how often you should replace your bras, according to an expert appeared first on In The Know.
More from In The Know:
Your boobs need this seriously perfect bra that In The Know editors are obsessed with
These are the best plus-size strapless bras that aren't terribly uncomfortable
TikTok swears by this reusable sticky bra that's waterproof, washable and wireless
Amazon shoppers say this $22 sports bra is pretty similar to Lululemon’s Align Tank Top
