How to Care for Your Shapewear to Make It Last Longer

Quick Answer

To extend the life of your shapewear, always hand wash in cold water with a gentle detergent, never wring or twist, and lay flat to dry away from direct heat. Store it folded loosely, not stretched, and rotate between pieces to reduce wear. Following these simple habits will keep your compression garments effective and comfortable for years.

Shapewear is an investment in your confidence and comfort, so it deserves proper care. Whether you wear a bodysuit for daily smoothing or a high-waisted shaper for special occasions, knowing how to wash and store these delicate garments makes a real difference in how long they keep their shape and compression.

Many people accidentally ruin their shapewear by tossing it in the washing machine or dryer. Heat and agitation break down the elastic fibers, causing the garment to lose its firmness and fit. With a few mindful habits, you can avoid these pitfalls and enjoy your shapewear for much longer.

Why Proper Care Matters

Shapewear is engineered with specialized fabrics like DuraFit® and SkinFuse® that provide targeted compression and smoothing. These materials are sensitive to high temperatures and harsh chemicals. Washing in hot water or drying on high heat can permanently damage the elastane fibers, leading to sagging and loss of support.

Additionally, the delicate construction—such as silicone grips, laser-cut edges, and foam cups—requires gentle handling. Proper care not only preserves the garment's performance but also maintains hygiene, preventing the buildup of bacteria and odors. By following a few simple rules, you can extend the life of your shapewear and get the most value from your purchase.

• Always check the care label for specific instructions.
• Use a mesh laundry bag if you must machine wash on delicate.
• Avoid fabric softeners as they can break down elastic fibers.

Washing Your Shapewear: Step-by-Step

The best way to wash shapewear is by hand. Fill a basin with cold or lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics. Submerge the garment and gently squeeze the water through it, paying extra attention to areas that come into contact with skin, like the underarms and waistband.

Rinse thoroughly in clean water until no soap remains. Never wring or twist the fabric, as this can distort its shape. Instead, press the water out by rolling the garment in a clean, dry towel and then laying it flat to dry. Avoid hanging shapewear, as the weight of water can stretch it out.

• Use a gentle detergent without bleach or optical brighteners.
• Wash after every wear to prevent oil and sweat buildup.
• If machine washing is necessary, use cold water and a delicate cycle.

Drying and Storing Shapewear

Drying shapewear correctly is crucial. Always air dry, never use a tumble dryer. Lay the garment flat on a clean towel or drying rack, away from direct sunlight and heat sources like radiators. Direct heat can degrade the elastic fibers and cause the fabric to become brittle.

Once fully dry, store your shapewear folded loosely in a drawer. Avoid folding it in a way that creates sharp creases, which can weaken the fabric over time. If you have multiple pieces, rotate them to prevent overuse of any single item. Proper storage keeps the garment's shape intact and ready for your next wear.

• Never use clothespins or hangers to dry shapewear.
• Keep shapewear away from pets and sharp objects.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Your Shapewear Care Routine

1. Check the Care Label: Before anything else, read the manufacturer's instructions. Some shapewear may have specific temperature or detergent recommendations. Following them is the first step to avoiding damage. Remember: when in doubt, hand wash.
2. Hand Wash in Cold Water: Fill a basin with cold water and a gentle detergent. Submerge your shapewear and gently squeeze the water through it. Avoid scrubbing or twisting, which can stretch the fibers. Never use hot water—it breaks down elastane.
3. Rinse and Press Out Water: Rinse thoroughly until all soap is gone. Press the water out by rolling the garment in a towel. Do not wring or twist. Rolling in a towel speeds up drying without damage.
4. Air Dry Flat: Lay the shapewear flat on a towel or drying rack, away from direct sunlight and heat. Never use a dryer or hang it up, as the weight of water can stretch it. Patience pays off—air drying preserves elasticity.
5. Store Properly: Once dry, fold your shapewear loosely and store in a drawer. Avoid sharp folds and keep it away from heat sources. Rotate between pieces to reduce wear. Proper storage keeps your shapewear ready for next time.

Shapewear Care in Practice

• Scoop Back Wireless Classic Sculpting Bodysuit: An all-in-one bodysuit that can be worn as shapewear or daily wear! It has a supportive built-in bra with double-layered fabric cups with foam inside for rounding. It's wireless and has excellent coverage under the arms for smoothing. The straps are adjustable for a perfect fit. The lower half is made of our signature DuraFit® fabric, which is super cool and soft to the touch, plus it sculpts your curves. The built-in bra and foam cups require extra care during washing to maintain their shape. Hand washing helps preserve the cup structure and the DuraFit® fabric's smoothing power.
• 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. This shaper has targeted compression for a little extra smoothing from the waist down to the outside of the thighs. The back has cutouts of lighter fabric for a butt-lifting effect and the ankles have a flex-fit design. The seamless SkinFuse® fabric is delicate and can snag easily. Proper washing and drying prevent damage to the fabric and maintain the targeted compression zones, ensuring a smooth silhouette.

Caring for your shapewear doesn't have to be complicated. By following these simple steps—hand washing, air drying, and proper storage—you can extend the life of your compression garments and keep them performing at their best. Treat your shapewear with the same care you would any high-quality garment, and it will continue to provide the support and smoothing you love.