How to Clean and Store Your Shapewear Properly

Quick Answer

To keep your shapewear in top condition, always hand wash it in cold water with a gentle detergent, then air dry flat. Store it folded in a drawer, never hung, to preserve the fabric's elasticity and shape.

Shapewear is an investment in your wardrobe, designed to smooth and sculpt while remaining invisible under clothes. But to keep it performing at its best, proper care is essential. Washing and storing your shapewear correctly not only extends its life but also ensures it continues to provide the compression and comfort you rely on.

From seamless shaper shorts to high-waisted panties, each piece uses advanced fabrics and technologies that require gentle handling. In this guide, we'll walk you through the best practices for cleaning and storing your shapewear, so you can enjoy a flawless silhouette every time.

Why Proper Care Matters

Shapewear is crafted from delicate, high-performance fabrics like AirFlex and SkinFuse, which are designed to offer targeted compression without sacrificing comfort. These materials are often seamless and bonded using heat rather than stitches, making them more susceptible to damage from harsh washing methods or improper storage.

When you wash shapewear in a washing machine or dry it in a dryer, you risk breaking down the elastic fibers, causing the garment to lose its shape and compression. Similarly, hanging shapewear can stretch out the fabric, leading to sagging and reduced effectiveness. By following the right care routine, you can maintain the integrity of your shapewear and get the most out of your purchase.

• Always check the care label for specific instructions, as different fabrics may have unique requirements.

Step-by-Step Washing Guide

The best way to clean shapewear is by hand. Fill a basin with cold water and add a small amount of mild detergent, preferably one that is free of bleach and fabric softeners. Submerge the garment and gently squeeze it to work the soap through the fabric. Avoid twisting or wringing, as this can distort the shape.

After soaking for a few minutes, rinse thoroughly with cold water until no soap remains. Press the garment gently to remove excess water, then lay it flat on a clean towel. Roll the towel to absorb moisture, then unroll and leave the shapewear to air dry away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

If you prefer to use a washing machine, place the shapewear in a mesh laundry bag and use a delicate cycle with cold water. Never use bleach or fabric softeners, and always air dry the garment. Heat from a dryer can break down the elastic fibers and ruin the compression.

• Common mistake: Using hot water or a dryer can permanently damage the fabric's elasticity.

Proper Storage Techniques

Once your shapewear is clean and completely dry, it's time to store it. The key is to avoid any pressure or stretching that could misshape the garment. Fold each piece gently and place it in a drawer or on a shelf. Avoid hanging shapewear, as the weight of the garment can stretch the fabric over time.

For items like shaper shorts or bodysuits, fold them in half or roll them loosely to minimize creases. If you have multiple pieces, stack them neatly without overcrowding, which can cause wrinkles or permanent creases. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and fabric degradation.

• Tip: Keep your shapewear separate from items with hooks or zippers that could snag the delicate fabric.

Step-by-Step Shapewear Care Routine

1. Check the Care Label: Before washing, always read the care label on your shapewear. Different fabrics may have specific instructions, such as water temperature or drying methods. Following the label prevents accidental damage.
2. Hand Wash in Cold Water: Fill a basin with cold water and add a gentle detergent. Submerge the shapewear and gently squeeze it to clean, avoiding twisting or wringing. Hand washing is the safest method to preserve elasticity.
3. Rinse and Remove Excess Water: Rinse thoroughly in cold water until no soap remains. Press the garment gently to remove water, then roll it in a towel to absorb moisture. Never wring or twist, as this can distort the shape.
4. Air Dry Flat: Lay the shapewear flat on a clean, dry towel or drying rack, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Allow it to air dry completely. Avoid using a dryer, as heat can break down elastic fibers.
5. Fold and Store Properly: Once dry, fold the shapewear gently and place it in a drawer. Avoid hanging, which can stretch the fabric over time. Proper storage keeps your shapewear in perfect shape for longer.

Shapewear Care Considerations

• Seamless Butt Lifter Shaper Short: A shaper short that's totally invisible under clothes. It doesn't dig in at the waistband or leg bands. Features an inner layer of our signature AirFlexTM compression fabric, attached using thermofusion technology. In other words, the fabrics are joined by heat instead of seams to provide moderate compression without bulk. Because this garment uses thermofusion instead of seams, it's especially important to avoid high heat in washing and drying, which could weaken the bonded areas.
• Invisible High-Waisted Capri Shaper: This high-waisted capri shaper has moderate compression for shaping from your waist down to your mid-calf. It's made of our SkinFuse® fabric: seamless for an invisible look under clothing. The seamless SkinFuse® fabric is delicate; proper hand washing and air drying preserve its smooth finish and prevent snags or pilling.

By following these simple care steps, you can keep your shapewear looking and performing like new. Remember to always handle your garments with care, and they'll continue to provide the smooth, comfortable support you love.