How to Care for a Lace Bodysuit

Quick Answer

Hand wash your lace bodysuit in cold water with a gentle detergent, then lay it flat to dry. Avoid wringing, bleach, and machine drying to prevent damage.

Step-by-Step Lace Bodysuit Care

1. Check the Care Label: Look at the sewn-in tag for specific washing instructions. Most lace bodysuits recommend hand washing, but some may allow a gentle machine cycle. If the tag says dry clean only, follow that guidance. Common mistake: Ignoring the label and assuming all lace is washable the same way.
2. Hand Wash in Cold Water: Fill a clean sink or basin with cool water and add a small amount of mild detergent designed for delicates. Submerge the bodysuit and gently swish it for 2-3 minutes. Do not rub, scrub, or twist the fabric. Pay extra attention to underarm areas and the gusset, using your fingertips to lightly work the soap through. Common mistake: Using hot water or regular laundry detergent, which can weaken lace fibers and fade colors.
3. Rinse Thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with cool, clean water. Gently press the bodysuit underwater to remove all detergent. Repeat the rinse step once or twice until no suds remain. Avoid running the garment under a strong faucet stream, which can stretch the lace. Common mistake: Leaving soap residue in the fabric, which can cause irritation and attract dirt.
4. Remove Excess Water Without Wringing: Lift the bodysuit out of the water and gently press it against the side of the basin to release water. Then roll it in a clean, dry towel and press firmly to absorb moisture. Never wring, twist, or spin the lace, as this can break threads and distort the shape. Common mistake: Wringing out lace, which permanently stretches and damages the delicate weave.
5. Lay Flat to Dry: Place the bodysuit on a dry towel or a mesh drying rack, reshaping it to its original form. Smooth out any wrinkles and adjust the straps and cups. Keep it away from direct sunlight, radiators, and heaters. Allow it to air dry completely, which may take several hours depending on humidity. Common mistake: Hanging a wet lace bodysuit, which stretches the fabric under its own weight and ruins the fit.
6. Store Properly: Once dry, fold the bodysuit gently and store it in a drawer or on a padded hanger. Avoid hanging it by the straps on a standard hanger, as the weight can stretch them over time. For long-term storage, place it in a breathable fabric bag to protect it from dust and snags. Common mistake: Storing lace bodysuits in tight spaces or with rough fabrics that can catch and pull the threads.

Product Spotlight

• Jezebel by Felina Anika Lace Bodysuit: This bodysuit features lace fabric, built-in cups, an open back cutout, and a thong back. The combination of lace and built-in cups means machine washing could distort the cups or snag the delicate open-back straps, so hand washing is especially important.