To care for lingerie, start with the instructions for the particular item. A bodysuit, a lace set and a nightdress may require different treatment. A washing machine programme called “delicate” is not enough to make the decision. This guide explains how to read the instructions, prepare for washing and plan drying without applying one routine to every garment.
Read the whole care label before choosing a programme
GINETEX distinguishes five groups of care instructions: washing, bleaching, drying, ironing and professional care. The number in the wash tub is a maximum temperature, not a temperature you must reach. One bar underneath calls for milder treatment; two bars indicate very mild treatment. A crossed-out wash tub means the item must not be washed domestically. Read any written instructions from the manufacturer too.
Before starting, note the permitted washing method and drying method separately. Permission for the first step does not imply permission for the next. If information is missing or illegible, find the exact product reference and ask the brand or retailer for its instructions rather than guessing.
Do not choose a care routine from appearance alone
When buying a garment, keep its product reference, stated composition and care instructions. This will make it easier to find the information later. When comparing items, separate the garment’s name, its stated composition and its care requirements: these are different pieces of information. A photograph showing lace does not, on its own, tell you which washing programme to use.
If you are preparing a gift, also consider how much care the recipient wants to devote to clothing. This practical detail can help you choose between two items without assuming what they like.
Hand washing: follow the brand’s precautions
In its FAQ, Marie Jo recommends hand washing its lingerie in water no warmer than 30 °C with detergent. The brand describes gentle handling without rubbing or wringing, followed by rinsing in clear water. This is an example of a manufacturer’s guidance; it does not replace the label on an item from another brand.
Have the instructions ready before wetting the garment. If they specify a product, temperature or particular restriction, keep those details together rather than remembering only “hand wash”.
Machine washing: check permission before using a laundry bag
Aubade first directs readers to each item’s label. Its general advice distinguishes certain tulle pieces, for which it mentions a delicate cycle no warmer than 30 °C, from its nightwear and silk section, which advises against machine washing even at 30 °C. This shows why two items from the same brand may need different routines.
The brand also recommends a laundry bag. This accessory accompanies a permitted treatment; it does not turn a machine-washing restriction into permission. Before filling the machine, check the label, the corresponding programme and any precautions for the particular item.
Plan drying and storage
Marie Jo advises against tumble drying its lingerie, recommends air drying and says not to place items on a heat source. It also specifies that lingerie should be completely dry before it is put away. Aubade recommends drying flat for its nightwear and silk pieces. These instructions remain specific to the products concerned.
For your own garment, read the drying instructions as carefully as the washing instructions. Prepare the required space and support before washing so you do not have to improvise once the item is wet.
Keep a care note for each item
You can keep this short checklist with your purchase references:
- Brand and exact product reference.
- A legible photograph of the label and any additional instructions.
- The permitted washing method and its restrictions.
- Drying and any ironing instructions.
- Any unanswered question to put to the brand or retailer.
This note is a personal reference. It does not replace updated instructions from the manufacturer. OhSexyShop is currently preparing its shop: this guide does not announce available products or any particular after-sales service.
Frequently asked questions
Is a 30 °C programme suitable for all lingerie?
No. Temperature is only part of the instructions. Check the method and restrictions for the specific item too.
Can I machine wash a restricted item if I use a laundry bag?
No. A bag does not replace permission to machine wash the garment.
What if the care label has faded?
Find the product reference and ask the brand or retailer for the corresponding instructions. Avoid copying the routine for an item that merely looks similar.
Sources and method
Documentary guide reviewed on 29 October 2026, with no product testing claimed. The brands cited are not presented as partners or as brands available from OhSexyShop.