There are many reasons why you might need to hand wash your underwear. Maybe you’re traveling and don’t have access to a washing machine, or perhaps you’re trying to be more eco-friendly by using less energy.
Whatever the reason, it’s important to know how to hand wash your underwear properly in order to keep them clean and fresh.
In this article, we’ll show you how to handwash your underwear in several different ways. We’ll also provide some tips on how to get the best results.
How to Handwash Your Underwear
Since underwear garments are typically smaller than other articles of clothing, you can easily hand wash them in a sink, tub, basin, or even a large bowl.
Below, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions for handwashing all types of underwear in each of these containers.
Handwashing Underwear in a Sink:
Whether you’re traveling or at home, washing your underwear in a sink is probably the most common way to do it.
1. Fill the sink with lukewarm water and only add about a teaspoon of mild detergent.
2. Swish the water around to dissolve the detergent and create some suds.
3. Place your underwear in the water and gently agitate them.
4. Let them soak for at least 5 minutes, more for heavily soiled items and tough stains.
5. Agitate the underwear again with more force to loosen any dirt or stains.
6. Drain the sink and rinse the underwear thoroughly under cold water.
7. Gently squeeze out any excess water and hang your underwear to dry.
Bonus tips when using a sink:
- Only wash 1 or 2 pieces at a time
- Less is more with laundry detergent
- Be sure to plug the sink before filling
Hand Washing Underwear in a Tub:
If you have multiple pieces of underwear to wash or larger items like bras, washing them in a tub may be a better option.
1. Plug the drain of the tub and fill it with hot/warm water.
2. Add about a tablespoon of laundry detergent to the running water to create suds.
3. Swish the water around to help dissolve the detergent.
4. Add your underwear to the tub and let them soak for 5 to 10 minutes.
5. Gently agitate the garments one at a time until they’re clean.
6. Drain the tub and rinse your underwear under cold water until the suds are gone.
7. Hang your underwear to dry or lay them flat on a towel.
Bonus tips when using a tub:
- Use hotter water instead of lukewarm since tubs are larger and will cool the water quicker
- Sit on a stool or the edge of the tub to avoid fatigue
Hand Washing Underwear in a Basin or Bowl:
If you don’t have a sink or tub available, or only have to wash a panty or thong, then using a basin or bowl is your next best option.
1. Fill the basin or bowl with lukewarm water and add a tiny amount of detergent.
2. Swish the water around to create suds and help dissolve the detergent.
3. Place your underwear in the soapy water and let them soak for 5 minutes.
4. Gently agitate the garments before rinsing them under cold water.
5. Hang your underwear to dry or lay them flat on a towel.
Bonus tips when using a basin or bowl:
- You can use hand soap, body wash, or even shampoo in place of detergent
- Consider filling the bowl or basin and washing your underwear outdoors to avoid making a mess
Conclusion
Handwashing your underwear may seem like a hassle, but it’s actually pretty easy once you get the hang of it. And, it’s a great way to keep your delicates clean and fresh when you don’t have access to a washing machine. Just remember to use mild detergent, and lukewarm water, and rinse your underwear thoroughly.
Do you have any tips for hand-washing underwear? Share them in the comments below!