Article By Edna Skopljak – Medical Doctor (MD)
Maternity and nursing bras are an essential part of any breastfeeding moms wardrobe. To avoid any unpleasant consequences for your little one – and yourself, you need to keep your breasts and nipples clean. This, of course, implies the bra hygiene.
As improper material, improper hygiene may also lead to irritation, discomfort – and even infection. And, since mom breasts are the source of food for the baby, that could potentially have some serious negative effects. That is why the proper care is required with the maternity bras.
As caring moms, we always care about our babies’ health and worry if something may be harmful to our little ones. Therefore, it shouldn’t be difficult to learn how to maintain the proper hygiene of your nursing or pumping bra, for your own – and your baby’s sake.
Kindred Bravely bras are quite a famous maternity and nursing bra brand. And, in this article, you will learn how to properly care for it during the precious, but delicate period of breastfeeding.
This article is not a substitute for medical advice or consultation
Can I Wash My Kindred Bravely Bras In The Washing Machine?
Although the brand recommends hand wash, you can wash your Kindred Bravely bras on the delicate cycle with some precautions.
Some moms even machine wash their nursing bras regularly, without causing damage. We all know how tempting it can be when you have piles of dirty clothes waiting for the machine wash.
But you need to be really careful, and you should be machine washing your bras only on the delicate cycle, otherwise those molded cups may change their shape, making the bra uncomfortable or even useless.
Nevertheless, following instructions is absolutely recommended, especially when it comes to nursing bras.
How Do You Wash Kindred Bravely Bras?
Here’s everything you need to know about washing your Kindred Bravely bras without damaging them!
Hand Wash
The manufacturer recommends handwashing Kindred Bravely bras, with mild soaps1.
1. First, remove any paddings, then submerge your bra in the bowl filled with lukewarm water.
2. Use a mild soap or detergent – note that it is important to avoid scented ones – and let your Kindred Bravely bras soak in for some time.
3. Make sure you don’t scrub the fabric too hard, as this could stretch it out of shape.
4. While you should rinse the soap well, avoid twisting and squeezing. Again, this could damage the shape of the cups.
5. Wash the paddings in the same way.
6. Once you are done washing, remove excess water by putting the bra on the clean towel, and then, let it air-dry.
Machine Wash
While the temptation is completely understandable, especially for new moms (I know, all those onesies and burp clothes piling in the laundry!), machine wash seems like an easier and faster option. But you need to make sure to do it correctly, to prevent the damage. The good news is – it is safe to wash your bra on a delicate cycle (woohoo, hands-free, worry-free!)
Make sure you clasp any hooks or clips, in the first place, and generally, avoid washing your Kindred bravely bras with some heavy clothes, as you don’t want to risk the snags, stretch, and other damage. Of course, always use a mild detergent, because strong detergents can, not only damage the fabric or cause fading, but also cause irritation on your nipples2, and strong scents are harmful for the baby3.
- Machine washing using a lingerie bag
The best option for machine washing is using a lingerie bag. A lingerie bag ensures that the bras do not get caught up in other fabrics in the wash, or even worse, get damaged by them. You also don’t want the hooks in the baby’s shirt, or your bra to stick to the Velcro of your little one’s sleep sack.
But, note, that even the laundry bag can get squished and twisted if you wash it with some heavy materials, like denim so better avoid it.
A lingerie bag also helps you maintain the softness of your comfy nursing bra, so it’s a win-win situation.
Removing Stains From Milk
Stains from breast milk can be quite stubborn. Same goes for nipple balm! It is important to know how to properly remove them, otherwise they may get “deeper” into the fabric and you’ll never get rid of them!
First of all, identify the stain on your bra and start with the right “treatment”. Blot the stain using a clean cloth and rinse the breast milk off as much as possible and to prevent the stain from setting.
You can spray the stain with a stain remover, preferably home-made, or otherwise baby-safe stain remover. Scrub it gently using a sponge or a brush, and soak the stained area in cold water. Then, wash your bra using your prefferrable method and air dry it in the sun.
Drying
Kindred Bravely bras also require special care when it comes to drying. Make sure you don’t use the dryer for your bras. If you hand wash them, first lay them flat on the clean towel, which will soak in the extra water.
Then, it is best to air dry them. After you washed it, just hang your bra on a regular hanger in some well-airy place.
Note that it is highly important to let it dry completely before wearing it or putting it in the drawer.
Wearing moist bras can lead to bacterial or yeast infections of your nipples. And putting wet bras in the drawer can create that terrible moist smell, which is difficult to get rid of.
Washing Kindred Bravely Pumping & Nursing Bras – FAQ
All this new information can be overwhelming to new moms, especially during pregnancy, when they don’t know what to expect. And yes, that includes the laundry and laundering.
How to wash your bras safely? What is the best method for Kindred Bravely bra treatment? How to prevent any damage and maintain its shape? Which detergent – if any – can you use? How do you dry it so it doesn’t shrink?
No worries, that is why I prepared for you the answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Can I Use Any Detergent When Washing My Kindred Bravely Bras?
When you are pregnant, after you give birth, and especially if you nurse your baby, you need to be extra careful with choosing the right detergent. Chemicals and scents can be harmful for your little one, but also to the sensitive nipple skin.
You can (and should) use the detergent which is made for sensitive skin – meaning it’s baby-friendly. Also, you shouldn’t choose any harsh detergent that could damage the material. And, don’t forget to rinse it off well – this is crucial!
How Often Should You Wash A Nursing Bra?
Although the quality of Kindred Bravely bras is high, and the fabric is durable, some wear and tear can happen if you wash it incorrectly and/or – too often. “Overwashing” can make the bra less durable and less comfortable, meaning, it will need to be replaced sooner.
Washing frequency depends on your personal needs. While it is normal to wear your Kindred Bravely bras multiple times before washing, many moms prefer to wash them more frequently (even on a daily basis). It is understandable, especially if you wear bras all the time and if your breastmilk is leaking.
But, every two to three wears is just fine! Also, storing your bras correctly will help you keep them looking and feeling good for a longer time.
Can I Use Bleach To Remove Stains From My Kindred Bravely Bras?
No, you should not bleach to remove the stains from your bra. It is not recommended for a few reasons: it can damage the fabric, it can cause fading – and it is not safe for the baby! Generally, avoid using it from pregnancy onwards, and never use it on the baby’s clothes!
Can I Tumble Dry Kindred Bravely Bras?
Tumble drying is also not recommended, as the high temperatures in the dryer can cause damage. Although machine washing is safe on the gentle cycle and you may be tempted to put your bra in the dryer – note that the materials of the bra are not suitable for that. If you tumble dry your Kindred Bravely bras they may shrink and loose their shape!
Rather choose another drying method and line dry, hang dry, or air dry your bra. If you choose hand washing, make sure to first lay flat your bra on the clean towel, before you hang it to air dry. That will help you maintain the shape of your bra.
Can You Put Wireless Bras In The Dryer?
No, you shouldn’t put wireless bras in the dryer – at least if you want to preserve them as long as possible. You should always air dry them to preserve – and wear them for as long as possible.
This doesn’t apply merely to pregnancy and nursing bras, but generally to all wireless bras, regardless of the brand and quality. Rather put them on the hanger and let them dry as regular – in fresh air.
When Should I Replace My Kindred Bravely Bra?
Nothing lasts forever. This, of course, implies the bras, too. If you notice that your Kindred Bravely bras are rather uncomfortable, or feel tight, changed their shape, or are otherwise damaged, make sure you replace them right away. Get yourself new comfortable bra – Mom, you deserve it!
Article By Edna Skopljak
Edna Skopljak is Medical Doctor (MD) who works in University Medical Centre in Ljubljana. She’s a She also worked as an editor at BJBMS medical journal for several years. She wrote content for several health-related websites and the BJBMS blog. She’s a mom of a 15-month-old.
The purpose of this article is informative. It’s not a substitute for professional medical advice or medical care. Remember: safety first! Consult your doctor/pediatrician in case of any doubts. The author of this article does not accept any responsibility for any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, from any information or advice contained here.
Resources:
https://www.kindredbravely.com/
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/
https://www.webmd.com/
Hello Moms! I am Zooey. I am a wife and a mother of three amazing kids: almost 5-year-old Haley and 2-year-old twins Jesse and Matthew. I am a jogger, cooker and blogger.If you have a question or a comment, do not hesitate to write to me! 🙂