How to Wash High Waist Briefs Without Stretching Them

By Marlies Dekkers Lingerie & Swimwear | Published: 2026-10-24

Category: Tips & Care

Learn the best way to wash high waist briefs so they keep their shape and support. These lingerie care tips help you avoid stretching and damage.

Quick answer

To keep high waist briefs from stretching, hand wash them in cold water with a gentle detergent, then lay them flat to dry. This protects the delicate recycled polyamide mesh and the elastic waistband.

Why high waist briefs stretch easily

High waist briefs are designed to smooth and sculpt, which means they rely on a firm elastic waistband and a snug fit. When you toss them in a washing machine or dryer, the agitation and heat can break down the elastic fibers, causing the waistband to lose its shape and the fabric to sag.

The Incognita collection's high waist briefs are made from recycled polyamide mesh with a custom flock print. This delicate fabric is more prone to damage from harsh washing, so treating it gently is essential to keep it looking and fitting as intended.

What to avoid

Avoid using hot water, bleach, or fabric softeners. Hot water can weaken elastic, and fabric softeners can coat the fibers, reducing their stretch and recovery. Skip the washing machine and dryer entirely for best results.

Also, don't wring or twist the briefs to remove excess water, as this can distort the fabric and the waistband. Instead, press the water out gently with a towel.

Step-by-step washing routine

Step 1: Prepare a cold water bath: Fill a clean sink or basin with cold water and add a small amount of mild detergent designed for delicate fabrics. Avoid using hot water or harsh detergents. Check the water temperature with your hand—it should feel cool, not lukewarm.
Step 2: Gently submerge and soak: Place the briefs in the water, gently pressing them down to ensure they are fully soaked. Let them soak for no more than 5 minutes. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing the fabric, especially the flock print. Do not leave them soaking for too long, as this can cause the elastic to weaken.
Step 3: Rinse with clean cold water: Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean cold water. Gently swish the briefs to remove all detergent. Repeat the rinse if needed until the water runs clear. Never wring or twist the briefs during rinsing—this can stretch the waistband.
Step 4: Press out excess water: Lay the briefs flat on a clean, dry towel. Roll the towel up gently and press to absorb moisture. Do not twist or wring. If the towel is very wet, roll the briefs in a second towel to remove more water.
Step 5: Dry flat away from heat: Reshape the briefs to their original form and lay them flat on a drying rack or another dry towel. Keep them out of direct sunlight and away from radiators or dryers. Never hang them to dry by the waistband—this can stretch it out.

Product care focus

high waist briefs: These high waist briefs from the Incognita collection are crafted in green mesh made from recycled polyamide with a custom flock print. The delicate mesh and flock print require gentle washing to preserve the fabric's texture and the briefs' sculpting effect.
high waist briefs