Beat the Heat with These 5 Must-Have Tommy John Essentials for Summer

Underwear etiquette rarely gets discussed over happy hour or in the cubicle on Monday morning. 

You may ask your coworker how meeting the in-laws went, or you may ask your friends about their latest love interests over drinks. But when you’re wondering how often you should buy new underwear, an internet search will likely be your go-to. 

How Often Should You Buy New Underwear?

Most experts recommend buying new underwear as often as every 6 to 12 months, however, there’s really no definitive answer as there are many factors to consider when determining your current underwear’s lifespan.

You may need to do a deep dive into your panty pile to uncover the truth, but once you’ve read the information below, you’ll know where you stand with your underwear quality, how many salvageable pairs remain, what type of underwear to buy, and how to take care of the pairs you purchase.

Signs Your Underwear is Past its Expiration Date

It’s not always easy to tell when your underwear is ready to retire. Unlike food with a clearly printed expiration date, that favorite pair of undies you own with the stretched-out waistband and the small holes have a way of feeling “still good” for one more month—and then another, and another. 

There are, however, some surefire ways to know when to pull the plug on your panties once and for all.

Holes

When you’re seeing holes in your underwear, it’s time to say goodbye. Holes can be frustrating because they may pop up six months after wearing a pair of underwear or within two weeks of purchase. Holes can happen from heavy wear, improper washing, or from low-quality fabric.

Tears

Similar to holes, tears in your underwear won’t give you a solid answer for the question, “how often should you buy new underwear?” Tears in underwear can happen unpredictably, but if your current underwear has tears from your pants, the wash, or flimsy fabric, it’s definitely time for an underwear upgrade.

Stains

When your underwear is stained, it’s a no-brainer that you need new ones. Keeping a pair of designated period panties is one thing, but stained underwear is an automatic, first-class ticket to the trash can. It may surprise you how much better some fresh pairs of drawers will make you feel!

Stretched-Out

Stretched-out underwear may be the easiest of these out-of-date characteristics to get away with. They’re only a little loose, and they’re still comfortable, right? Well, the best is yet to come. 

Your old stretched-out underwear is like sleeping on a metal spring mattress. New, fitted underwear is like sleeping on a luxury memory foam mattress.

What to Do With Old Underwear

Once you’ve accepted that some of your old underwear need replacement, you may wonder what to do with those old pairs that need to go. For health reasons, you can’t donate used underwear, but you have other options.

Throw Them Away

The easiest thing to do is throw your old underwear away. By sending old pairs to the trash, you can make room for new underwear. When your underwear is stained, has holes and tears, or is stretched out, there’s not much you can do but say sayonara. 

Make Rags

If you have trouble wasting your old clothing, you can throw away only the well-worn and stained pairs of underwear and recycle the ones that simply don’t deserve real estate on your bum. Old underwear can work well as cleaning rags!

Use Them as Stuffing

If you’re crafty and enjoy knitting or sewing pillows or stuffed animals, then you can use your old underwear as stuffing for your creations. This is a great way to recycle your clothing because the quality of the fabric used as stuffing won’t matter.

Patch Clothing

You can also salvage pieces of your old underwear and use the lesser-worn pieces as patches for other clothing. When your jeans or shirts have holes in them, simply sew on a patch of undies and your clothing will look good as new. You can enhance your clothing by adding uniquely patterned patches.

Compost

If your old underwear is made of natural fiber, then you can compost them! Natural fibers include cotton, wool, silk, and linen. Remove the elastic waistband of your underwear before composting.

How Many Times Can You Wear Underwear Before Washing It?

You should only wear your underwear once before washing it. It may seem cumbersome to wash underwear every time you wear it, but doing so will keep you healthy and fresh. 

Washing underwear won’t seem like such a hassle when you have several pairs to spare. You can throw the pairs you’ve worn in the laundry basket and pick one day of the week to wash them all at once.

How to Find Good Quality Underwear

Finding high quality underwear styles shouldn’t be like searching for buried treasure. When you know what to look for, you can find underwear for men or women that fit you well and are made of long-lasting material. You get what you pay for, so cheap underwear may get you more pairs, but those pairs may not be of good quality.

Comfort

Good quality underwear should also be durable. Buying underwear that rips and tears easily likely means your underwear will wear out sooner. Even minor design details like the gusset in women's panties should be well made and durable.

When purchasing underwear, you shouldn’t settle on a pair that feels scratchy, rides up, or simply doesn’t fit. Our underwear size chart can ensure you look and feel good in a snug pair of skivvies. 

Fabric Quality and Durability

Good quality underwear should also be durable. Buying underwear that rips and tears easily likely means your underwear will wear out sooner. 

At Tommy John, we use comfortable and high-quality fabric when making underwear. All of our underwear is made out of machine-washable antimicrobial, quick-drying mesh and soft, non-pilling micro modal rayon that provides 360 degree-stretch.

How to Make Your Underwear Last Longer

Once you’ve spoiled yourself by purchasing some new underwear, you should know how to take care of these good-quality garments. The best way to make your underwear last is to treat it well. 

Hand Wash

Hand washing your underwear can prevent wear and tear brought on by frequent wash cycles. You can wash a handful of your worn underwear in the sink by adding a drop of laundry detergent to cold water. Once complete, hang to air dry. 

Machine Wash on Delicate

If you don’t have time to hand wash your underwear every week, you can machine wash your underwear. Throw your underwear in a netted garment bag for protection, add detergent, and wash on the delicate cycle. Once complete, tumble dry on low.  

Bonus Tip: All Tommy John underwear is machine-washable, which makes for a no-fuss clean!

Underwear FAQs

How Many Pairs of Underwear Should I Have? 

There’s no minimum requirement for how many pairs of underwear you should own, but you should definitely have at least one pair for each day of the week so that you don’t have to do laundry each day. 

It’s also beneficial to have two pairs of underwear for each day so that you have a backup pair and a pair to switch into for the night or morning after a shower or a workout if necessary. 

If there’s any piece of clothing in your closet that you should have in excess, it’s underwear. 

How Much Should Underwear Cost?

The cost of underwear will vary depending on how well-made the underwear is. When you find underwear that seems durable, long-lasting, and comfortable, they may cost $20-40, but that one pair is worth three or four of the less expensive pairs. 

What Happens if You Don’t Change Underwear?

Not changing your underwear every day can have undesirable consequences for your health and your knickers. By changing into a fresh pair each day, you’ll avoid a trip to the doctor and prevent stretching, tears, and holes. 

So what’s the verdict? How often should you buy new underwear? It’s not as much about how often, but for what reason. Buy new underwear when your current underwear is ready to hit the road, when you need more quality pairs of underwear, or when you just feel like trying something new. Owning too many briefs is a good problem to have!

Ever wondered what the pocket in women's underwear is for? Read on to find out!

Whether you’re new to the dating world or a veteran of the apps, you’re probably familiar with the nervous excitement that comes when sending that first DM or love connection. For some, messaging a prospective partner is fun and flirtatious but for others discovering how to “slide into DMs” requires a full team of friends to help craft and send the perfect pitch.  

The pandemic propelled many to turn to lock-down dating, dating over DMs and inventing creative ways to be romantic. Whether you spent the past year sending DMs at home and in your favorite pair of underwear or are just re-entering the dating world, it doesn’t hurt to read up on the code of conduct for effectively making the “slide.”

To help you navigate the new digital world of DMing, we’ve sourced tips from experts in business and dating on how to slide into DMs to help garner the best response. 

What Does Sliding Into Someone’s DMs Mean?

The term “sliding into someone’s DMs,” for those who don’t know, is direct messaging a stranger or acquaintance, using a social networking platform in an attempt to get their attention. The approach tactics can vary but so can the intention. You could be reaching out for numerous reasons such as to make a romantic connection, ignite a friendship, expand your professional network, or get the attention of a celebrity. 

Messaging Etiquette by Platform

Many learn the hard way that publishing something online is hard to take back, so it’s best to be mindful when learning how to slide into DMs and send reputable messages out into the virtual universe. Each social media platform comes with different messaging etiquette. Here are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your manners (and reputation) stay intact.

Networking Sites

Networking sites like LinkedIn are a great way to learn about new job opportunities, connect with prospective employers, and expand your network. Today, networking online is an essential part of career development but connecting on LinkedIn isn’t as simple as sending the default “Hi. I’d like you to add me to your network” message and it shouldn’t be treated as casually as other social networking sites. If you don’t follow proper networking etiquette, you risk damaging your relationship with potential connections and your credibility.

Keep the following in mind before you make your next connection:

1. Make sure your profile is up to date: The last thing you want when forming a new professional relationship is for someone to look at your profile and be confused or think you are underqualified. Your bio should accomplish three things: provide context to the nature of your work, establish authority in your work, and show social proof.
2. Don’t say anything you wouldn’t in a professional setting: Author and LinkedIn expert, Melonie Dodaro says in her article “LinkedIn Etiquette and Best Practices” that there’s a basic rule of thumb you should always apply: “Would I say this in the workplace?” If the answer is ‘No’, then don’t do it on LinkedIn.”
3. Be brief: Your first inclination might be to treat a professional direct message like an email correspondence but it’s better to lead with brevity. Between 50% and 60% of LinkedIn’s traffic comes from mobile devices, which means the majority of messages are read on a mobile screen. One or two short paragraphs that are each no more than three or four sentences is plenty.

Social Sites

Direct messaging etiquette differs greatly for social sites like Instagram, Snapchat or Twitter but the basic code of conduct when it comes to digital communication rings true–mirror how you might behave in person. 

Below are some other ways to mind your manners when DMing on social media:

1. Be respectful and polite: Leading with kindness is the best way to avoid coming off as creepy if you are messaging a stranger! 
2. Don’t type while tipsy: You might think liquid courage can help you feel more confident writing and sending a message, however, drunk dialing might increase your chances of sending a message you might regret later. In a study that looked at students’ drunk dialing, 89% of participants had sent a text message while drunk, and 43% said that they felt guilty about it later.
3. Don’t assume your exchange is private: Like anything on the internet, messages can be screenshotted and shared. Consider this: If you’re not willing to post your message publicly, does the message need to be sent?

Dating Apps

So you landed a match on a dating app, congrats! So what now? Many focus on their profile, photos and bio but fail when it comes to communication and etiquette. 

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when direct messaging on dating apps:

1. Be cautious of catfish: Depending on the dating app, you might not be able to see too much information about matches from their bios. Be cautious of sharing personal information with others and if possible, try to share other social networking profiles with each other to verify you are not being “catfished.”
2. Don’t act like your “too good” for dating apps: If you really don’t want to use dating apps, a much easier way to convey that than complaining about it in your dating app profile would be to simply not make a dating app profile in the first place.
3. Look for red flags: If a match takes a while to respond or sends messages that are short, suggestive or abrupt that might indicate that they are seeking a hookup or testing people to see how they respond.
4. Be wary of “ghosting:” Ghosting is when someone stops answering your messages without explanation. This commonly happens on dating apps due to its nature of anonymity and moving on or losing interest can be done without the discomfort of breaking up or having to see the other person again. 

Top 9 Ways to Slide Into Someone’s DMs

Keeping the above etiquette in mind, you’re ready to learn how to slide into DMs whether you have romantic or professional intentions. 

1. Lay the Ground Work

Sliding into someone’s DMs can be a necessary but risky move as you aren’t sure if the receiver will be interested and reply. Samantha Moss, editor and content ambassador of romance site Romantific, recommends responding to a story or post as a way to lay the groundwork. “It could be a TikTok, a meme, or a picture of them, responding to their stories shows interest and it makes sliding into their DMs easier and more casual,” she says.

Laying the groundwork is just as important when sending a professional direct message as it helps build a relationship with your prospective connection outside of their inbox. Andrew Selepak, a media professor at the University of Florida, tells his students to avoid messaging someone for the first time with a direct ask but rather treat networking as relationship-building that develops over time. “No one is going to help a random stranger get a job or internship...long before you are looking, is when you should start networking,” he says. 

What does this look like in action? Follow them for a few days. Like their content, comment on posts, and add to the discussion! By contributing meaningful and insightful observations, your name and profile will stick out above the noise of other people who may be trying to network with them.

2. Research Before Reaching Out

The first message you send when you slide into someone’s DM is vital as it will set the tone for your ensuing interaction. Be willing to invest some time in this person by looking at the information you have on hand.

For example, if they've tweeted about a particular TV show, consider asking them a question about it. Or if they've posted a pic of a band they've seen in concert, prepare to ask for their favorite song. Commenting on their interests shows that you noticed something about them and asking a question motivates them to answer.

Before reaching out in a professional setting, conduct some background research to understand their values goals and how you align with them. Deborah Sweeney, CEO of MyCorporation emphasizes the importance of doing some background research to ensure you are spelling the person’s name and other affiliations correctly as well as checking out their company’s social media handles and 'about' pages for the organization's leadership information.

Once you’ve completed this step, you should be very familiar with your prospect and have some ideas in mind for sending a message that resonates. 

3. Personalize Your Message

When sending a direct message on LinkedIn, avoid simply saying “hey” or sending a default connection message. Take the time to personalize your message to increase your chances of getting a positive response. Did you go to the same college or recently attend the same webinar? Use these uncommon commonalities to entice your prospect to respond.

The same goes for DMing socially. Do they use cheeky captions on their Instagram posts? Do they love to laugh or have a specific taste in music? Use any common interests as a way to hint that you checked out their profile and are interested. 

4. Do as You Would IRL

When sending a digital message it’s important to act how you would in real life. Avoid sending an overly pushy or forward first message, unless you would say it in real life. You wouldn’t walk up to somebody at a bar and simply say “Hey” or gush over their looks so don’t do it over DM. You would make up an interesting question, something that was observational that shows you are paying attention and are interested. 

The same rings true on networking sites. Communicate on LinkedIn the same way you would in professional interactions outside of LinkedIn. No need to be overly formal or change your style – be real, be you, but be professional.

5. Be Brief

Working professionals are most likely not spending hours checking and responding to direct messages. When crafting your message think a few sentences, not several paragraphs. When DMing, give the recipient the information they need. Right away they need to be able to figure out what it is your asking and who you are. A good test is sending yourself the message and seeing how many scrolls it takes to get to the meat of your message.

6. Be Specific

When being courted via DM, nobody likes to receive a “What’s up” or “Wyd.” These questions exhibit lazy behavior and don’t entice the receiver to respond. Instead, ask specific questions that show you are interested in them and the conversation. 

“Don’t ask if you can pick their brain” said Alison Green owner of Ask a Manager when DMing professional connections. “This is a vague request that most people don’t know what you’re looking for or how they can be helpful. Pose precise questions, such as, ‘I’m wondering about the following two things’” she says. 

7. Be Blunt and Basic

Most direct messages whether professional or social end with an ask. Do you want to grab a coffee, go on a date, gauge their interest in something or set up a call to talk further? In general, keep your request basic and don’t offer too many options as they will most likely choose the easiest one. 

8. Create Stronger Bonds

Obviously, when you slide into someone’s DMs, you’re angling for a reply so be prepared to talk about similar interests, crack a joke or ask additional questions to feel out their vibes. Talk about trips you want to go on or restaurants you’d like to try, then you can escalate the conversation into their family, friends, and outside life. The key is to make the conversation worthwhile. Don’t be afraid of discussing silly or weird topics–like in friendships, sometimes the most memorable and meaningful conversations are weird but personal to you.

If your professional connection responds or connects with you, your work isn’t done! Continue to engage with their content and congratulate them on any promotions, birthdays, or successes.

9. Be Realistic

If you admire a person, chances are that other people do, too. People are stretched very thin and it’s probably not personal if they don’t respond to you right away. Avoid following up more than once and give them a realistic time frame to respond. 

DM Don'ts: How to Not Slide into DMs

While there are best practices for sending DMs there are also “no-nos” you’ll want to avoid. 

Lay Off the Emojis

If you’re reacting to someone’s story or are simply an animated messenger avoid using too many emojis as they can be easily misconstrued. Never include emojis if sending direct messages for professional purposes.

Don’t Offer Money or Make Demands

Never make demands via DM or offer or ask for money. Doing so can scare off any potential connections and ruin your credibility. 

When Needed, Take the Hint

If you’ve sent a DM with no reply or reaction, don’t be a pest and continue to send messages. This can come off as creepy. At max, send two messages and if you still don’t receive a reply, take the hint. 

We hope these pointers around how to slide into DMs have encouraged you to get back out there and make memories that will last you a lifetime! After a year spent mostly indoors, many are ready to refresh their wardrobes, to avenge what they were denied – in particular life’s luxuries like fabulous bras and underwear. 

With traveling and trips on the horizon, don’t forget to pack a supportive bra for every occasion and if your DM does turn into a date, some of our world-famous underwear!

Sources: LinkedIn | NY Post | Yesware 

It’s pretty intuitive to know that prioritizing self-care in your everyday life can make you a happier and healthier person. Unfortunately, as we’ve navigated our way through a stressful year, many of our daily rituals and wellness practices have been interrupted. 

If you’ve found yourself tossing and turning in your pajamas all night then you’re not alone. Sleep is one of the most significant pillars of health being sacrificed during this time. Lack of sleep can lead to a decline in mental health, increased risk of disease, memory problems, and much more.

Thankfully, if you’re one of the many people looking for a natural remedy for your sleep disturbances, then you’re in the right place! Sleep affirmations are the newest, effective trend you’ll want to add to your nighttime routine for a better and deeper night’s rest. 

What are Sleep Affirmations?

Sleep affirmations are positive statements you can repeat before bed to help enhance your confidence, challenge self-doubt, and calm your mind before bed. Repeating nighttime affirmations gives you the power to rewire your brain to turn negative thought patterns into positive ones. 

You can think of affirmations as muscle memory for your brain’s mental health. An athlete can’t expect to see physical changes by going to the gym once, and your brain can’t change its thought patterns by hearing a mantra one time. The more you repeat the affirmation to yourself, the more you will manifest it into reality.  

You can use night affirmations to target any part of your life. Whether you need a boost in confidence, motivation to overcome an obstacle, or simply need help relaxing in your pajamas, there’s an affirmation for you.

Do Affirmations Work While You Sleep? 

Bedtime affirmations are the perfect way to wind down and have a peaceful evening. With our subconscious mind always at work, what we think about right before bed tends to influence our dreams at night. Doing something kind for yourself before bed will contribute to a worry-free sleep with fewer chances of scary dreams.

If you go to bed with a positive mindset, there is a high chance you will wake up the following morning with a better attitude. This shift can help you to put your best foot forward from the second you wake up and impact the rest of your day for the better.

How to Get the Most Out of Affirmations

There are several steps to crafting an original and meaningful bedtime affirmation. Here are some tips you can use when getting started to get the most out of your positive sleep affirmations. 

Use Present Tense

It’s essential to speak about things as if they’re already happening. Use “I am” and “I have” statements to give your mind the subconscious demand to bring the affirmation into reality.

Be Specific

Being specific with your nighttime affirmations helps your mind to visualize the outcome. For example, instead of saying, “I will get a raise this year, try saying, “I am enjoying my $10,000 raise in earnings this year.”

Believe in it

It is essential to believe in the sleep affirmations you are repeating at night. If you don’t trust in what you’re saying, then your subconscious mind won’t either, and it’ll be more difficult for the desire to occur.

Use Visualization or Feeling

Affirmations carry more weight when linked to strong emotions or powerful visuals in your mind. This simple exercise can help connect your mind, body, and soul to align with your deepest desires.

Repeat Them Often

When you repeat your positive sleep affirmation often and believe in it wholeheartedly, you can start to see positive changes in your life. The more times you say your affirmation, the faster you can expect to change perspectives and actions.

Ask a Loved One to Help

Listening to someone else repeat your affirmations can help reinforce your belief in them. Taking these additional measures can be a fantastic help in turning your wishful mantras into reality.

Sleep Affirmations to Calm Your Mind Before Bedtime

According to the American Sleep Association, over 30% of young adults deal with some form of insomnia. Unsurprisingly, the pandemic hasn’t made it any easier to get a restful night’s sleep.

People who’ve never had sleep problems before suddenly find themselves up at night worrying about the uncertainties of the present moment, work-life balance, financial issues, and more. 

Because stress and mental health influence sleep quality, we’ve broken down a list of sleep affirmations into categories to target common negative thoughts keeping people up at night. Specifically, we give examples of bedtime affirmations for anxiety, self-love, and gratitude to calm your mind and get those Z’s every night.

Affirmations For Anxiety That’s Keeping You Up At Night

Night affirmations are a fantastic tool for combatting anxiety that is keeping you tossing and turning in bed. These mantras will remind you to feel empowered, knowing that you have complete control over your thoughts and emotions. 

Subconsciously over time, your brain can begin adopting these positive sayings and shed any negative preconceived ideas.  

Affirmations for Self-Love Before You Fall Asleep

These self-love affirmations will help you to become a more confident, caring, and overall happier person. Everyone deserves to love and feel loved, so here are some mantras to getting started on your journey!

Self-love runs on a high vibration that will attract others with positive energy into your life. The more love you have for yourself, the more you can expect to gain from those around you.

Gratitude Affirmations to Have a Peaceful Evening

There are countless mental and physical benefits to expressing gratitude daily. These benefits can aid you in falling asleep quicker and easier. 

Expressing your appreciation sends a signal to the universe that you want to experience more of the things you are grateful for. When you end your day by showing gratitude, you will not only go to sleep thinking happy thoughts but wake up feeling better too.

Sleep Affirmations for a Better Night’s Sleep

We’ve all experienced those nights where you’re staring at the ceiling for hours late at night in your pajamas, wishing you could fall asleep, but with no luck. 

The trick to overcoming these sleepless nights is to calm your mind and halt racing thoughts. This can be easier said than done, but with the right tools, you can release these negative emotions seamlessly in no time. 

Whether you need relief from insomnia, want to avoid nightmares, or simply relax after a long day of work, we’ve got a sleep affirmation that’s perfect for you.

Bedtime Affirmations to Help Relieve Insomnia

Repeating sleep affirmations targeting insomnia let your body know it has permission to rest. Nighttime affirmations for restless nights need to be rooted in the belief that you deserve to feel rested.

Next time you’re struggling to fall asleep, try these mantras and watch them work their magic!

Night Affirmations for Better Dreams

Nightmares are often caused by worry or stress that hides in our subconscious thought as we’re falling asleep. If you are suffering from bad dreams, simply say these affirmations at night, think happy thoughts, and fade into blissful dreamland.

Decide which bedtime affirmation you need to repeat most and watch your nightmares transform into the best dreams you can imagine. 

Nighttime Affirmations for Relaxation Before Bedtime

The first step in getting a night of deep and rejuvenating sleep is to feel relaxed before bed. These will help the stress in your life melt away in minutes. 

The best way to relax before bed is through a nighttime routine tailored specifically to you. Choose which sleep affirmations speak to you the most and add them to your nightly ritual to have your most calming evening before bed. 

Additional Ways to Get a Peaceful Night’s Sleep

To get the best results from your sleep affirmations, it is best to pair them with other healthy sleep habits. Here are some additional helpful tips to getting your best night’s sleep in conjunction with your mantras.

Mindful Meditation

This involves focusing on breathing and bringing your attention to the present moment. When your mind isn’t drifting to the past or future, it evokes a relaxing response from the brain.

Find the Right Sleepwear

Finding the right pajamas is imperative to getting a good night’s rest. Finding pajamas that work for you can help with comfort, aid in body temperature control, and even prevent illness. 

Aromatherapy

Essential oils can help you get sleepy before bed by evoking melatonin to be released in the body. Lavender, chamomile, and valerian are your best choice because they are known for their calming effects.

Journal

Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be a therapeutic practice before bed. Journaling can help relieve anxiety and improve sleep quality.

Turn Off Electronics

Blue light stimulates the body’s internal clock and can disrupt your sleep patterns. For the best results, turn your electronics off an hour before bed to help your body fall asleep faster.

Take a Bath

Take a shower or bath one hour and a half before bed to calm your nerves after a busy day. This practice promotes relaxation and healthy sleep.

Now that we’ve shown you the best sleep affirmations for your nighttime ritual, it’s time to give them a try! Combine your bedtime affirmations with your favorite loungewear, aromatherapy, and a nighttime bath, and you’ll be sleeping peacefully in no time.

Since we got our first training bra, we’ve all heard the wives’ tales about whether sleeping in one is bad or good for health. From links to health concerns to preventative sagging, rumors pervade around whether or not it’s okay to sleep in a bra. Spoiler alert: It is, however, the deciding factor should be whether or not you find wearing bras to bed comfortable and supportive. 

It’s time to settle the debate once and for all. We’ll debunk the different bra-related myths, to help you feel confident in whatever way you choose to house your breasts for lounging and sleep.

Is Sleeping in a Bra Bad for You?

The short answer is no, but it can be if you aren’t sleeping in the right bra. There are no peer-reviewed medical studies that point to negative effects from sleeping with a bra such as cancer or stunts in breast growth. That being said, sleeping in a bra that’s too tight or digs into your skin, can cause irritation and disrupt sleep. If you wear a dirty bra to sleep, it can also accumulate bacteria and increase your chances of breaking out in those areas so make sure to properly wash your bras after 3-4 wears. 

According to studies, wearing a bra or other tight-fitting garment at night can affect a person’s sleep-wake cycle. Researchers found that nighttime pressure from tight-fitting garments caused an increase in core body temperature and a decrease in melatonin—a hormone that helps regulate sleep. 

We all enjoy wearing our comfiest clothes to bed, so when choosing to sleep in a bra, opt for one that won’t pinch or irritate you during sleep. 

Is it Beneficial to Sleep in a Bra?

The main benefit of sleeping in a bra is support—wearing a bra under your pajamas can limit breast movement, which can help alleviate breast pain and lead to more comfortable sleep. If you find bras comfortable, then there is no reason not to sleep in one. Sleeping in a bra (depending on its style) can also reduce discomfort related to pregnancy such as breast swelling, engorgement during breastfeeding, or when trying to wean off of breastfeeding.

You might be wondering whether wearing a bra to bed can prevent breasts from sagging. We’ll cover that next. 

Does Not Wearing a Bra to Bed Cause Sagging?

Sleeping in a bra does not prevent your breasts from sagging. On the contrary, our breast tissue doesn’t receive the gravitational pull when we are lying down, so we don’t need to wear a bra to bed for prevention reasons. 

Breasts will naturally sag over time due to genetics, body habits, or if pregnant. Cooper’s ligaments, which are the ligaments that support your breasts, stretch over time, leading to natural sagging. There are many reasons why sagging might occur, which we’ve outlined below. 

Reasons Breasts Might Sag 

Over time, ligaments can stretch out and lose their shape however, according to Barry Roseman, M.D., a breast surgeon and surgical oncologist, if women are aware of the contributing factors, they can take preventive measures to avoid excessive sagging.

1. Aging: As we age, the ligaments that make up breast tissue stretch and lose elasticity. 
2. Gravity: Years of gravitational pull can take a toll on the ligaments, especially for those with larger breasts. 
3. Lack of proper support: Not wearing a supportive bra every day and during workouts can take a toll on breast shape and lift. 
4. Pregnancy: The ligaments in your breast can begin to stretch out and droop during pregnancy and while you're breastfeeding.
5. Smoking: Carcinogens in cigarette smoke cause elastin to break down in the body.
6. Sunburn: Ultraviolet rays damage the skin and cause loss of elasticity as well.
7. Fluctuates in weight: Major fluctuations in weight can cause unnecessary stretching of the breasts.

Should You Wear a Bra to Bed?

Although choosing to sleep in a bra can’t significantly harm or help your breasts, deciding whether you should wear a bra to bed or not is entirely up to you. If you have larger breasts or simply like the compression or comfort a soft sleeping bra provides, we say go for it! That being said, we do recommend choosing a bra that is looser, softer, and more flexible than your everyday bra. Also, ditch the underwire, as tight bras with underwire can cause skin irritation and disrupt sleep. 

The best way to tell if a bra will be comfortable for sleeping is by putting it to the “perfect fit” test. If you need assistance with measuring your bra size, explore our bra size chart. 

Band 

The band should not hike up your back or dig into your shoulder tissue. There should be enough room to slide one to two fingers underneath it.

Hook & Straps

The straps should sit securely on your shoulders and be snug but not too tight. The back hook (if there is one) should be on the second hook.

Gore & Cups

The gore should lay flat against your chest with both breasts sitting inside the cups. The cups should form to the curve of your breast and should properly cover with no overflow or gaps.

All that’s left is finding a bra that is comfortable and built for sleep. 

The Best Bras For Sleeping

Unsure where to look for a sleeping bra? Ahead you’ll find our favorite bras for bedtime. 

Cool Cotton 

Cool Cotton bras and bralettes are made of an exclusive, breathable smart fabric that wicks away moisture for hot sleepers and offers a wireless lined cup that provides lightweight support.   

Second Skin

Second Skin fabric is crafted to be so soft and luxurious—it’s like you’re not wearing anything at all. Our Second Skin bras and bralettes are pullover and seam-free to offer soft support with no digging. 

Comfort Smoothing

Comfort Smoothing fabric is ultra-breathable, lightweight and supportive. Our laser-cut vanishing seams are invisible under clothing and offer side and back smoothing to accentuate what you love, and smooths what you don’t. Comfort Smoothing bras and bralettes offer a Comfort Strength Band that lays flat and won’t dig as well as wire-free support. 

There’s no evidence that points to any negative health effects from choosing to sleep in a bra and for some, wearing a bra to bed can offer support and alleviation from breast pain. Deciding whether to sleep in a bra or not is all about preference and the perfect fit for sleep. Luckily, all of our bras and bra alternatives are crafted to provide the support you need but without the hardware that can irritate your skin. Explore our comfiest bras for sleep or luxurious pajamas today to level up your bedtime attire today.

Long gone are the days of not being able to wear an outfit solely because you did not have the right type of bra to go with it. From the simple t shirt bra to a backless bra to mastectomy bra to adhesive bras today, there are bras for every breast size, shape, and style—all you need to do is pick which will work best with your outfit.

With more than 20 different types of bras on the market (and counting) each one is crafted and tailored for different purposes. Some of the differences between bra types are minor (like a bralette versus a balconette), but others are more noticeable (like a plunge versus a bandeau). Whatever bra you choose should have you covered with all the support you could want. To help you choose a bra that best fits your personal style and needs, we’ve put together a guide of 20 bra types, bra design, and styles. 

Before jumping, you’ll need to know your correct bra size and measurements. If you’re unsure, check out our bra size chart and guide to measuring your bra size. Our bra sister size chart can also be helpful!

20 Types of Bras For Every Women

Bras are like friends—they're there when you need them, but without the right bra for your breast shape and size they might be doing you more harm than good. To help you choose a bra that will be comfortable and supportive all day long, we’ve provided details around how they should fit, what to wear them with and what breast type they best serve.

Let’s get started with the bras that we offer!

1. Demi Bra

What’s a demi bra many of our customers ask! The demi bra is one of our most popular styles as it covers half of the breast and creates a beautiful and natural cleavage and lift.

Made of Second Skin fabric, our demi bra is lightly lined to provide lightweight support, has seam-free, smooth cups that disappear under clothes and fully adjustable straps for a classic or crossback fit. Wearers rave over it’s ComfortStrength™ Wing that provides ultimate support and no digging, slipping, or irritation.  

Check out our Second Skin Lightly Lined Demi Bra for the softest, most comfortable bra you've ever worn. It's the perfect bra for every activity, from sleeping to a night out on the town.

Wear it with:

Low cut or scoop neck tops

Breast type: 

Smaller breast sizes

Level of coverage:

Medium coverage

2. Bralette

Bralettes are a bra style without wires or molded cups.  They are similar to a cami bra and often have adjustable straps and provide great coverage with light support.

We offer a range of bralettes with slightly different features. Our Second Skin Comfort Lace Bralette is made of super soft no-show lace that disappears under clothes, has a ComfortStrength™ Band that always stays put and built-in power mesh to lift, support, and separate your breasts.

Our Comfort Smoothing Bralette is made out of ultra breathable, lightweight and supportive Comfort Smoothing fabric, offers side and back smoothing that accentuates what you love, and smooths what you don’t as well as innovative wire-free support.

Lastly, our Second Skin Micro Rib Cross-Back Scoop Bralette is designed to be dig-free through its no-hardware design and built-in power mesh.

Wear it with: 

Flowy or sheer tops or a bralette lace bra with high-waisted pants and flowy kimono

Breast type: 

Small to mid-sized breasts because of minimal support

Level of coverage:

Medium coverage

3. Triangle Bra

A triangle bra gets its name from its triangle-shaped cups. Unlike the half cups of a demi bra, triangle bras are designed to provide less coverage–making them a sexy alternative to padded wireless bras. They serve as a versatile plunging neckline that works under a number of low-cut tops.

Made of Second Skin fabric, our Second Skin Triangle Bralette has a ComfortStrength™ Band that always stays put, built-in power mesh to lift and support as well as fully adjustable straps for a classic or crossback fit.

Wear it with: 

Low-cut tops and plunging necklines

Breast type:

Smaller to medium sized breasts 

Level of coverage: 

Medium coverage

4. Wireless Bra

A wireless bra as it sounds, features no wire, but relies on the cut of the fabric and stitching to create shape and provide support. It is also called a “soft cup bra” and is great for anyone who gets irritated by the poking or pinching of underwires. This type of bra is very comfortable and holds you up with sturdy under-bands.

Our Cool Cotton Lightly Lined Wireless Bra is made out of natural cotton fabric, has a wireless, lightly lined pad to provide lightweight support, seam-free smooth cups and a perforated cup lining to allow for extra airflow. 

Made of Second Skin fabric, our Pullover Wireless Bra is lightly lined to provide lightweight support, has seam-free, smooth cups that disappear under clothes and has fully adjustable straps for a classic or crossback fit. This bra also has a ComfortStrength™ Wing that provides ultimate comfort and no digging, slipping, or irritation. 

Wireless bras make for cozy sleepwear if you prefer wearing bras at night. In fact, there’s nothing wrong with wearing a bra to sleep, and contrary to popular beliefs, it doesn’t make your breasts sag less or make them perkier.

Wear it with:

Low cut or scoop neck tops

Breast type: 

Small to mid-sized breasts because of minimal support

Level of coverage: 

Medium coverage

Types of Bras That Offer Light Support

Now that we’ve covered our famous bras, we can cover other types of bras you might see on the market. The following types of bras offer light support and can be discreetly hidden under strapless or backless clothing. 

5. Sticky Bra

Sticky, stick-on or adhesive bras are strapless and backless bras that adhere to the breast using self-adhesive bra cups (usually made of silicone). By placing each sticky bra onto your breasts and smoothing your hand over them you can ensure they are properly stuck on. Some sticky bras even have a clasp in the middle to give you a little more cleavage.

Wear it with:

Strapless, sheer or backless tops or dresses

Breast type:

All breast types, but can be more supportive for smaller breasts

Level of coverage:

Light coverage

6. Bandeau Bra

A bandeau bra is a strapless strip of stretchy fabric with a thick band on top and bottom for better hold. It is similar to a strapless bra but does not have any closure. Bandeaus are easy to slip on, and can have molded cups or pockets to insert supportive pads. They are meant to cover nipples with strapless tops of sheer dresses and are commonly worn by themselves since they look similar to tube tops.

Wear it with:

Strapless or sheer tops or dresses

Breast type:

Smaller breasts due to limited support

Level of coverage:

Light coverage

7. Strapless Bra

Strapless bras are just like they sound, bras without straps. They are designed to be worn with off the shoulder or strapless tops and give you the freedom to wear whatever you want. The support from this bra comes from the band, so women with larger breasts need to make sure the bra will support them and the band won’t lose elasticity. 

Wear it with:

Strapless or sheer tops

Breast type:

All breast types, but can be more supportive for smaller breasts

Level of coverage:

Light coverage

8. Unlined

An unlined bra is a bra made with one layer of fabric across the cups but does not have any padding or foam to reinforce the cups. They can have wires for additional support or be wire-free—either way they can still provide excellent support for larger chested women. Because there is less fabric and bulk they are lighter on the body and can be combined with other bra cut styles such as bralettes, mimizers and plunge bras. 

Wear it with:

Any tops or dresses where you’d like to show your natural curves and shape

Breast type:

Large breast sizes

Level of coverage:

Medium coverage

9. Balconette Bra

Balconette bras (also known as a shelf bra or balcony bra) provide the breast a subtle lift to enhance your natural shape. They are very similar to demi bras as they show a little less than half the top of the breast but are cut smaller than full-coverage style bras. You can also tell a balconette bra by the wide-set straps and as the name suggests and the way the breasts get pushed up to the “balcony.”

Wear it with:

Any tops or dresses

Breast type: 

Any breast size but very flattering for someone with wider set shoulders 

Level of coverage:

Light coverage

Types of Bras That Offer Medium Support

For casual or everyday wear, you’ll want a bra that is comfortable and supportive. Peruse the following medium support bras that you can live in, whether you're traveling or spending a day around the house.

10. T-Shirt Bra 

A t shirt bra is a smooth cup bra, usually underwired, that has padded or molded cups. T-shirt bras are the ultimate comfort wired bra and can be worn under T-shirts with a seamless silhouette.

Wear it with:

T-shirts of course but also can tight or form fitting tops

Breast type:

Works with all breast shapes and sizes 

Level of coverage:

Medium coverage

11. Push Up Bra

A push up bra is designed to push the breast muscles towards the center and up to create a visible cleavage. Push up bras have padded cups with extra padding at the lower section of the cup and commonly have demi cups with lower necklines. 

Wear it with:

Low cut tops and dresses

Breast type:

Smaller breasts that would like added cleavage

Level of coverage:

Medium coverage

12. Seamless Bra

A seamless bra has moulded cups, no seams and creates a very smooth finish under tighter clothing or T-shirts. Seamless bras have moulded cups to create a smooth finish and are a great choice for those who have sensitive skin as there is no pinching or poking. Seamless bras can also come in padded and push up form. 

This bra is not only designed to stretch and support your body but is also a great supplement or transition to a maternity or nursing bra as it will give you all day comfort with the addition of drop down cups for easy discrete feeding.

Wear it with:

Tight fitting tops and dresses

Breast type:

Larger breast sizes

Level of coverage:

Medium coverage

13. Plunge Bra

A plunge bra features a deep v-neckline and flattering cut that hugs your curves. Thanks to its unique cup shape, a plunge bra looks flattering on a wide range of body types and breast shapes. Due to the angled cups and deeper-v in a plunge style bra, it will actually give you more cup coverage at the top, especially with a mesh overlay.

Wear it with:

Low-cut dresses and tops that typically wouldn't work with other bra styles

Breast type:

All breast types, but great for larger breast sizes

Level of coverage:

Full coverage

14. Padded Bra

A padded bra is designed to enhance bust size and cleavage as the cups are lined with shape-enhancing inserts or foam padding. Padded bras are meant to support the breasts but do not significantly increase cleavage like the push up bra. 

Wear it with:

All tops or dresses

Breast type:

Smaller breast sizes 

Level of coverage:

Medium coverage

Types of Bras That Offer Maximum Support

The following bras provide maximum support to keep your breasts in place. Whether you live an active lifestyle or just like a little lift, these bras are both stylish and supportive. 

15. Full Coverage Bra

A full-coverage bra is a bra in which the cup extends to cover all or most of the breast tissue, giving it a "high neck line" appearance. They help to prevent spill-over, provide support, and they can even be designed to redistribute the weight of the chest for a better, more comfortable fit.

Wear it with:

Higher neckline tops and dresses

Breast type:

Larger breast sizes

Level of coverage:

Full coverage

16. Underwire Bra

An underwire bra is a bra that has a fitted semicircular strip of metal or plastic inside the fabric under each cup. If you’re like many who think underwire bras are uncomfortable check out comfortable bra alternatives.

Underwire bras do provide more support and shape, thanks to their wired structure so if you are looking for more support a comfortable non poking wired bra is your best bet.

Wear it with:

All tops and dresses

Breast type:

Larger breast sizes

Level of coverage:

Full coverage

17. Minimizer Bra

A minimizer bra is a bra that minimizes the appearance of the breasts. Since minimizer bras compress and redistribute the breast tissue your silhouette appears smoother and more balanced. Many wear minimizer bras under button-down shirts to reduce the gap between the buttons and breasts as well as the bras can provide extra support and reduce the amount of bounce. 

Wear it with:

Button-down shirts or tight fitting tops or dresses

Breast type:

Larger breasts

Level of coverage:

Full coverage

18. Maternity/Nursing Bra

A maternity bra is a specialized bra that provides additional support to pregnant women who will experience rapid increase in breast growth. A good maternity bra will contain extra layers of fabric such as cotton to help with support and comfort. The top part of the cup will often be stretchy to accommodate any fluctuation in breast size and the back band will have extra hooks and eyes for expansion as your rib cage expands.

A nursing bra is designed a little differently as they have a clasp at the top of the cup that can be released to expose the breast for breastfeeding. 

Wear it with:

All tops and dresses

Breast type:

Breasts that will experience rapid increase in breast growth or if breastfeeding

Level of coverage:

Full coverage

19. Racerback Bra 

Racerback bras are bras where the straps criss-cross or join in the back to form an “X” shape. The benefits of this style are you can hide straps for tank tops and dresses as well as add an extra angle of life to your bra. When combined with a supportive brand and cups, the racerback bra can offer mega support.

Wear it with:

Tanks or dresses when you’d like to hide straps but not wear a strapless

Breast type:

Offers support for all sizes, but are particularly helpful for women with large breasts

Level of coverage:

Medium coverage

20. Sports Bra 

Sports bras provide support to breasts during physical exercise. They are sturdier than typical bras and are designed to minimize breast movement and alleviate discomfort. Sports bras can provide different levels of support from low, medium and high depending on the impact level of the exercise. 

Wear it with:

Workout clothing 

Breast type:

Offers support for all sizes, but are particularly helpful for women with large breasts

Level of coverage:

Full coverage

FAQs Around the Different Types of Bras

We all can’t be experts in types of bra and know what works best for a woman's breast shape and size. For those who want to know more about finding your dream bra, we’ve answered your most frequently asked questions around the different types of bra. 

Which type of bra is best?

Want to know what to look for in a bra? The “best” type of bra is completely based on preference and what works best for your breast shape and needs. Many prioritize support when selecting a bra, so if that’s you, underwire bras are known for providing optimal support. ort. 

Which type of bra is best for daily use?

The best type of bra for daily use is one that is comfortable, supportive and works well with most outfits. Many wear T-shirt, demi or wireless bras on a daily basis and save their strapless or cage bras for special occasions and outfits. 

What is ABCD in bra size?

The letters on bra sizes like A, B, C, D stand for cup sizes. The numbers like 32, 34, 36, 38 tell you the band size (the part of the bra that goes around your torso). For more information on bra sizing and how to measure bra size, check out our fitting guide.

What’s the difference between bras and bralettes?

The main difference between a bra and a bralette is that bralettes are softer, more lightweight and are usually made without wiring, padding or structure. As a result, they give lighter support than a regular bra.

Demi vs full coverage: What’s the difference?

Demi cup bras are half-cup versions of their full coverage counterparts. They're generally cut 1 inch above the nipples and made with shorter and shallower underwires that are more comfortable for smaller breast sizes. 

What’s the difference between balconette and demi bras?

Both the balconette and demi-cup styles offer less coverage than full cup bras (balconettes covering a little less). Since the balconette pushes your breasts up to the “balcony” think of the demi bra creating more of a square neckline, while balconettes create a sweetheart shape.

We hope our comprehensive guide on the 20 types of bras helps you build the bra wardrobe of your dreams! Our bras and bralettes are the most comfortable on the planet and they provide soft, breathable, supportive, easily washable and stretchy fabrics to ensure comfort all day—no matter the style of bra you need, we have you covered with all the support you could want.

Finding the perfect bra is like hitting a moving target. Your body changes day by day. Your fashion needs vary with the season. And bras themselves may change shape as they age. 

But as you get dressed in the morning (and continue your quest for the perfect bra) one question may loom larger than all the rest: underwire or wireless? Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of each style.

The pros of wearing an underwire

The wired bra (aka underwire bra) takes its name from the rigid wire, often made of metal, that lines the underband to support the cups. Wired bras offer unrivaled lift, support, and shaping. They can reduce back and shoulder strain for those of us with larger chests when properly sized and adjusted. And they can also support better posture, which is crucial for anyone spending their day hunched over a computer. 

Unfortunately, wired bras have earned a bit of notoriety for being uncomfortable. They may pinch and squeeze into your skin, and in some cases, the wire can rip through the fabric and cause scratches. Of course, when they are sized correctly and given good bra care, underwire bras can be perfectly comfortable. 

Still, you don’t need to use a rigid piece of metal to get the support you need. Tommy John has crafted an ouch-free underwire demi bra that offers flexible support without any metal. The Lightly Lined Demi Bra has fully adjustable, convertible straps that offer gentle support without digging into your skin. 

The pros of going wire-free

Many people prefer wireless bras because they offer a more comfortable, less constricted feeling. Smaller breasts may not need the extra support and boost of an underwire, and may not need the same amount of lift under a form-fitting top. A supportive wireless bra may also be more comfortable during times of the month when your breasts are more tender, and they tend to fit better for women with different sized boobs.

On the other hand, because a wireless bra is softer and more flexible, it may not provide the same structure and lift. If you have to move a lot throughout the day, you could end up feeling a little sore from the bouncing, and you may not be able to maintain the same posture that an underwire can help you maintain after a long day. 

Tommy John offers two supportive demi bras that let you go wire-free. Our Lightly Lined Pullover lets you skip the hassle of the claps while still offering fully adjustable straps, while the more traditional Lightly Lined Demi features four clasps for a more flexible fit and convertible straps so they can stay discrete under your sleeveless dress. 

So which bra is right for you today?

If you’re wearing a tight top and you want to adjust your silhouette, or you want to lift and separate your breasts, the support of an underwire is probably best. A wired bra is also a good choice if you have to move a lot throughout the day and want to reduce pain from bouncing - especially if you’re wearing a low-cut top that won't let you get away with a hardwire-free bralette. 

On the other hand, if you’re feeling sensitive, need to feel a little less restricted, or if you're going for a more informal look, the wireless bra can offer plenty of support. They can also be much more comfortable on lazy days when you’re only getting off the couch on an as-needed basis.  

Ultimately, choosing the right bra for your day comes down to what you want to wear and how you feel when you’re wearing it - and a high-quality bra should wear like a dream. Whatever bra you choose to wear today, it’s crucial to let your bras relax between uses to help them last longer. If you have a bra you love enough to wear every day, buying another one or two just like it will help you get a lot more life out of them.

The bottom line

Your bra is there to make you happy. It shouldn’t feel like a chore to wear! If you’re fighting a constant battle with your underwear drawer, it’s time to trash your old, inferior bras and invest in some you truly love to wear. 

At Tommy John, our bras are crafted from soft, breathable material to maximize comfort and minimize boob sweat. We’ve carefully designed the straps and bands to create durable bras that stay in place without digging or squeezing, so you can look great without feeling constricted. As always, shopping with Tommy John is risk-free, because if you don’t love your first new bra, we’ll refund your money or replace it with something you do love.

At last, 2020 is in the rearview mirror. But the “great loungewear pivot” that had people hungry for the laziest, comfiest styles isn’t going away anytime soon. The whole world has gotten a little more casual - and sometimes it’s hard to know just how casual you can get without crossing any lines. 

But don’t fret! This handy checklist will help guide your choices and reassure you when you’re navigating those pesky social norms. Here are 6 questions to ask yourself as you get dressed in the morning (or afternoon):

1. Are you leaving the house?

If you don’t have any plans to exit the house today, the answer is crystal clear. Staying home is the ultimate excuse to wear the comfiest pants in your wardrobe (or no pants at all), even if you’re expected to log on for a video meeting. We’ve curated the perfect work-from-home wardrobe collection to help you get through crunch time. Even if you’re hosting a gathering, you can set the attire as casually as you’d like. Hey, it’s your house!

Now that we’ve got the easy part covered, let’s cover the nuances of other life situations. Leaving the house does not automatically disqualify your go-to lounge attire, so you’ll need to consider where you’re going, who’s going to be there, and what you’ll be doing.

2. Are you just hanging with friends?

If you’ve got a brunch scheduled or you’re invited to a potluck, you don’t have to weigh the pros and cons of canceling or getting dressed. Our loungewear is tailored for a classy, fashionable fit that pairs well with a meal with friends. Of course, you may have to go the extra mile if your outdoor restaurant of choice has a strict dress code. But maybe rather than rescheduling your plans, you could look for a more accessible place to meet. 

3. Are you interacting with strangers?

OK, maybe you’ll be seeing some strangers. But don’t freak out! The right loungewear is just as suitable for a casual evening out as it is for lazing around the house. Our sleek designs take the effort out of “effortlessly stylish” while you connect with your friends or make new ones. The wrinkle-resistant fabric means you can look great and feel comfortable in low-key scenes like the supermarket, a coffee shop, or the neighborhood beer garden. Show up without looking like you just got out of bed (even if that’s what you just did). 

4. Have to go to work?

Here’s where things get dicey. Jobs with strict dress codes or that require you to do a lot of moving around generally require work-appropriate attire. However, there are quite a few jobs where you can show up in loungewear and no one will be the wiser - even when it’s not casual Friday. The right accessories can style up your cozy joggers and lounge henley into a professional look for your business casual needs. 

5. Are you working out?

While loungewear does give you the freedom of movement you need to bend, stretch, and move, it typically isn’t built to last through sweaty gym sessions. If you’re hitting the gym, you’ll want to select moisture-wicking attire that doesn’t slow you down by soaking up sweat. Consider our Go Anywhere Leggings as well as a bra built to provide the support you need for plyometrics. The same goes for any outdoor meetups, whether casual or competitive, where you might work up a sweat.

6. Is it a special occasion?

Well, this is truly the end of the line for casual clothes. If it’s a special occasion, you’ll need to get dressed up and there’s no way around it. But unless you’re feeling Grinch-y, dressing up for events should be fun. And it can make it even more pleasant to throw the comfy-wear back on when your night is over. Even if it’s a low key anniversary date, putting on something special can go a long way towards making the moment feel special. Still feeling reluctant to ditch your loungewear? We get it. We really do. But there will be plenty of days to settle in for the evening in your jammies, with or without company. 

The bottom line

Okay, so our society still hasn’t totally left behind the need for “real” clothes. There will always be bosses, friends, and certain family members for whom you need to dress up properly. Fortunately, Tommy John puts the same care into creating comfortable clothing for all occasions so you can look great and still feel comfortable until it’s time to transition back to your favorite loungewear. 

But for all those other times, the only thing holding you back is the contents of your dresser. So if your women's loungewear choices are looking drab or feeling a little lacking, it’s time to expand your collection and reinvent your wardrobe for 2021. 

We’ve walked you through how to wash bras, so next on your laundry list is to learn how to wash underwear. Even if you don't sleep in your underwear, learning the best way to wash your underwear, panties and other types of garments is the best way to extend its life and keep it clean and ready for when you need it most. In our guide, we will show you the different methods for washing your underwear, offer underwear washing tips and tricks and answer frequently asked questions to help make laundry day a breeze.

If you’re looking for an underwear brand that offers no-fuss washing, look no further! All Tommy John underwear is machine washable and made for optimal comfort and convenience. 

How to Hand Wash Underwear 

Some types of underwear and panties like lace and mesh are delicate and shouldn’t be put into the washer machine. For washing these types of garments, opt for handwashing underwear in the sink. Explore the following items you’ll need to effectively learn how to hand wash underwear.

What You’ll Need to Hand Wash Underwear

1. Sink or Tub 
2. Cold Water
3. Mild Laundry Detergent 
4. 2 Clean Towels 
5. Hangers or Drying Rack 

Step 1: Clean and Fill Your Sink with Cold Water + Detergent

The first step in hand washing your underwear is finding a clean sink that is large enough for your garments to fit in. You can also use a clean container or bathtub. Begin by filling your sink with water and add less than a penny size amount of detergent (just enough to work up a light lather) as too much can leave residue on your panties. 

Tip: Opt for a specially-formulated delicate or silk wash. Baby shampoo also works well for gentle cleaning. 

Step 2: Add Underwear to Sink + Gently Rub 

Once you’ve added your underwear to the sink, make sure your panties are submerged and swish them around to loosen any dirt or stains. Next, you will want to give them a gentle scrub (you can either do this with your fingers or a clean toothbrush) focusing on areas like the sanitization strip (gert?) and anywhere else body oils and bacteria can be present. Next, let the underwear soak for 5 to 15 minutes depending on how many garments you are washing at one time. 

Step 3: Rinse Your Underwear

Once you’re ready to remove your underwear from the sink, take them out one by one and rinse them with cold water. Continue rinsing until all the soap is off your underwear and the water runs clear. 

Tip: Never ring out your underwear or else it will stretch the fabric. Lightly squeeze the water out if needed.

Step 4: Dry Your Underwear

To dry your underwear, place them down on a clean towel and use your second towel to remove any water by pressing down on it. Make sure all the water is squeezed out. Then take the underwear and hang it up on either a hanger or drying rack to air dry.

How to Wash Underwear in the Washing Machine 

Not all underwear garments need to be washed by hand. For more durable underwear fabrics such as the fabrics used to make Tommy John underwear, you can wash them in your washing machine. Be sure to follow the instructions below, to make sure you are still taking care of these garments as they go into the wash. 

What You’ll Need to Wash Underwear in the Washing Machine 

1. Washing Machine 
2. Mild Detergent 
3. Lingerie Bag
4. 2 Clean Towels 
5. Hangers or Drying Rack

Step 1: Put Underwear into a Lingerie Bag

Lingerie bags are designed to keep delicate garments safe in the washing machine. Putting underwear into a mesh or lingerie bag ensures that they won’t get tangled or snagged on other clothing. 

Step 2: Wash the Load on a Gentle Cycle 

Set your washer machine to a delicate cycle, and use cold water with a gentle detergent. Add your bag of bras to the wash and press start to run the delicate cycle.

Step 3: Tumble Dry Underwear on a Low Setting

When your load is done, gently pull your underwear out of the washer and put them in your dryer. Change your dryer setting to tumble dry on the lowest setting. If you don’t wish to dry your underwear by machine, follow the steps above for air drying!

Step 4: Remove, Fold and Store

Once your drying load is done, remove underwear from lingerie bags, fold and store!

Underwear Washing Tips + Best Practices

Now that you know the different methods for washing your underwear, consider the following tips for proper underwear care. 

Read Your Garment Tag

With any type of clothing, it’s always best to read your garment’s washing instructions. Usually, it can be located on a small garment tag on the inside of the back panel of underwear. Reading up on washing instructions can help you decide whether your type of underwear should go into the washing machine or be washed by hand.

Pre-Treat Any Stains 

To remove stains from underwear, pre-treat the stain before washing. Do so by dabbing a stain pre-treater or even dish soap on the area and let it sit for 10 minutes. 

Turn Underwear Inside Out 

Turn your underwear inside out when washing to reduce the wear and tear on delicate fabric. This step will get your underwear cleaner, too.

Wash With Similar Items 

Washing your underwear in a separate load can minimize fabric friction, avoid them getting caught on buttons and zippers and improve hygiene.

Avoid Using Fabric Softener or Bleach  

Fabric softener is a nightmare for nylon and polyester-based microfiber fabrics. Since microfiber is already silky soft, there’s no need for this extra step. It’s ok to use on cotton, but not recommended. Bleach is best left to heavy-duty washes, as it can weaken fabrics over time. If you need the extra disinfecting power of bleach, keep usage to every other wash to keep your underwear in tip-top condition

Choose a Mild Detergent 

Delicate fabrics like lace and mesh call for a gentle detergent like fine fabric detergent, free and gentle detergent, or mild dish liquid.

Remove Washed Clothes Immediately

Try your best to remove washed underwear immediately from your machine to prevent any mildew or wet laundry smell. 

Avoid a Hot Dryer

Air drying is the best way to help your underwear look better and last longer, but if you are in a hurry and need to use a dryer, tumble dry on a low setting. The average home dryer can generate heat up to 180°F, making the inside of your dryer a virtual oven. Underwear fabrics can’t take this type of heat and it will cause it to stretch and sag. 

How to Wash Underwear by Fabric 

If you’re still stumped on whether to wash your underwear by hand or machine, look no further. We’ve outlined best practices for washing underwear by fabric type.

Cotton   

Underwear made of cotton generally can be washed in the machine. Due to cotton’s durable fabric, it is one of the most widely used types of fabric in underwear thanks to its superior moisture absorption and soft touch. 

How to Wash: Separate lights from darks, and wash separately. Machine wash at a cold temperature. 

How to Dry: Air dry in the shade. If you’re in a hurry, tumble dry on the lowest heat setting and remove as soon as they’re dry.

Microfiber 

Microfibre is usually made of some kind of synthetic material, making them silky, soft, stretchy and quick-drying. Due to their nature, drying won’t be as necessary. 

How to Wash: Machine was at a cold temperature.

How to Dry: Air dry only, as heat can harm synthetic fabrics. 

Lace, Mesh or Silk 

Our rule is, if you can see through it, then it should be washed delicately and if possible, by hand. If you are washing in a machine, avoid washing sheer, lace and mesh fabric underwear in the same cycle as rougher fabrics. Also, be cautious of washing this type of underwear with any items that have buttons or hooks as the fabric can snag. 

How to Wash: Wash on a delicate cycle in cold water or if possible, hand wash. 

How to Dry: Air dry on a flat surface. Avoid hanging with clothespins to prevent stretching the fabric.

Underwear Washing FAQs

Some of us don’t learn how to properly wash our underwear until we are on our own. To help guide those who might be newer to underwear care, we’ve answered frequently asked underwear washing questions below. 

How often to wash underwear?

Underwear should be washed after every use. Since they are in close contact with your skin and sweat, washing them after every use keeps them fresh and clean. 

Should you wash underwear separately?

If possible, wash your underwear separately from other types of clothing. Washing your underwear in a separate load can minimize fabric friction, avoid them getting caught on buttons and zippers and limit the spread of germs.

Is washing underwear in a machine safe?

Washing underwear in a machine is safe. If you are cautious about contamination, clean your machine by running an empty cycle after every underwear load.

What temperature should you wash underwear?

We recommend washing your underwear in cold water as hot water sets stains and wears out the fabric.

How to remove stains from underwear?

To remove stains from underwear, pre-treat the stain before washing. Do so by dabbing a stain pre-treater or even dish soap on the area and let it sit for 10 minutes. 

Should you wash underwear before wearing it?

Yes! Wash newly purchased underwear or other clothing before wearing it to rid of any germs. 

What’s the best detergent for underwear?

What’s considered the best detergent is up to your personal preference, however for cleaning underwear, we recommend a gentle or delicate option. 

How to wash Tommy John underwear?

For washing Tommy John underwear, we recommend machine washing on cold with like colors. For drying, use the lowest setting (tumble dry) and avoid using bleach or softeners. For more information, explore our product care page.

We hope our guide has helped you learn more about how to wash underwear. If amid cleaning, you find a few of your garments have run their course, use our underwear size chart to find replacements that fit like a dream. Start shopping our men’s or women’s underwear collection today to experience the true meaning of comfort.

The Henley has earned its place as a fashion staple for sophisticated men who want to look their best in casual settings - yet it goes mostly unappreciated. Not sure what a Henley is? Odds are you have at least one hanging in your closet or folded into one of your drawers. 

The Henley shirt is essentially the polo shirt’s collarless little brother - a little more laid back, yet effortlessly stylish. It comes equipped with the same buttons as a polo so you can set the tone for the day by buttoning up higher or lower. 

Like the polo, the Henley has its roots in sports. Henleys were originally designed to give rowers a durable top that could provide extra ventilation by opening the buttons. However, the look and comfortable feel of the knit cloth soon helped them become popular everyday shirts.

The banded collar and buttons elevate this unsung fashion hero into an unpretentious and casual (but not too casual) fashion staple that every man should integrate into his wardrobe ASAP. Here’s why:

1. It’s a style chameleon 

The lounge Henley is truly versatile, and a no brainer when you’re looking for something cozy to wear in and out of the house. Dressing it up or down is as simple as picking the right combinations to pair it with, and it works equally well under a sweater, sport coat, or worn on its own. You can pull off a half-tuck for a more put-together look or let your shirt hang loose and unbutton a little for a more relaxed style.

2. It’s perfect for layering 

The lounge Henley can add an extra layer of warmth without being too bulky. During transitional seasons when it’s hard to dress for the weather, you can shed your outer layers down to the Henley without losing any style points. Of course, Henleys can still be styled up for business casual events, and help you look respectable for informal parties and get-togethers in any season.

3. It offers year-round comfort 

The lounge Henley offers plenty of breathability and ventilation so you can protect your skin from the sun without overheating in the summer, and it’s the great foundation for a winter wardrobe. (As we said above, layering is everything.) The soft, smooth fabric is perfectly pleasant for lazing about the house while you catch up on your streaming content, and you won’t have to worry about changing into something more presentable if you need to make a coffee or beer run (or jump into a Zoom meeting). 

4. It’s a mature alternative to a tee

While a t-shirt can sometimes look sloppy, the Henley’s buttons always add a sophisticated touch. The lounge Henley is snug and form-fitting to accentuate your chest and shoulders without being too showy or making your torso look square. Of course, you don’t have to dress to impress everywhere you go - but looking your best never requires extra effort with a Henley. 

5. No collar to fuss with

Polos have more than earned their place in everyday fashion, but the Henley lets you look good without worrying about how your collar sits on your neck. Sporting the collarless look with a Henley lets you embrace your casual side without coming off as lazy or unfashionable, and you certainly won’t feel the need to change into something more comfortable when you head back home. Henleys are a refined way to show up without looking like you’re trying too hard, but you can still make a good impression.

6. A tasteful way to show a little skin 

The buttons on the Henley let you quickly transition into a more relaxed state so you can show off a respectable portion of your chest in a casual setting. And turning down the charm is as simple as buttoning up. Henleys aren’t nearly as loud and proud as walking around in a tank top, which means you won’t turn any heads if you meet up with friends at a bar or brunch spot while letting a little chest peek through. 

The bottom line 

The lounge Henley is here to stay, and if you’re not taking advantage of its refined look and unbeatable comfort... well, that’s on you. But in 2021, we can use all the help we can get to relax. That’s why Tommy John has created the perfect Henley to help you stay cozy without losing any points for style. 

Crafted from our silky soft Second Skin material and built to stretch where you need it without losing its shape, this is the top that will always end up on the top of your stack when you do laundry. Sound too good to be true? It isn’t, and you only need to try it on once to cast aside your doubts.

Everyone knows you can’t judge a book by its cover - but when you start flipping pages, it speaks for itself. Similarly, whether or not you’re aware of the subtle differences between undershirt styles, the one you choose does send a message to anyone who happens to see it. 

While you could choose to remain blissfully unaware, finding the best undershirt to suit your style can level up your fashion game - and it can help you be more comfortable throughout the day without committing any faux pas.

So what is your undershirt saying about you? Let’s read the tea leaves together.

The classic crew neck

The crew neck undershirt offers full coverage for the meticulously dressed. It provides unbeatable protection when you're wearing a tie, but it’s not so good for sporting more casual shirts that don’t button up all the way to the neck. Because they can be difficult to pull off without showing over your neck line, people that sport crew necks are often the type to cross their t’s and dot their i’s. 

The V-Neck

The V-Neck is for the more fashion-forward gentleman who loves button-up shirts but doesn’t always don a three piece suit as daily wear. When you’re wearing a V-neck, you can enjoy a more relaxed fit around the neck that’s never restrictive. A V-neck is more versatile than a crew neck and can help you avoid the habit of tugging at your collar if you hate having cloth against your neck. “Proper with a chill side” is the subtle message a V-neck sends.

The Deep V

The deep V-neck has an even lower cut than a classic V-neck - like a happy medium between the tank top and the traditional V-neck. A deep V cut tells people that you’re a truly laid-back gentleman who enjoys loosening up after office hours by undoing a top button or two (or three?). If you like showing off a peek of your chest hair or you’re embracing the “casual” side of business casual, the deep V should be your go-to.

The Tank Top

The tank top is cozy and the least restrictive of all the undershirts, and works great under short sleeves or tight button-ups. Tank tops provide a little modesty and protection for your nipples when you need to keep things professional, but can minimize the fabric on your arms to help you stay cooler on warm days. While certain stereotypes have literally given this shirt a bad name that we won’t mention here, they can be flattering and classy. Tank tops display confidence and have a masculine air about them, but they aren’t a great option if you sweat a lot. With nothing between your shirt and your underarms, you’ll be dealing with pit stains daily. 

The ratty, oversized undershirt

An undershirt is meant to protect your nicer clothing from sweat and grime, as well as keep something soft to cover your skin. Too big, and it simply lumps up under your outerwear and is equal parts sloppy and uncomfortable. If you’re caught wearing an undershirt that’s worn out its welcome, it shows that while you understand the rules of fashion, you can’t quite follow them. If this sounds like you, it’s time to retire the old undershirts and upgrade to something that can get the job done. 

None at all 

Not wearing an undershirt may seem like a rugged, sensible fashion choice, but that’s not the message you're sending out. Beyond missing out on the many benefits of this crucial piece of daily wear, you’re sending the message that you’re not invested in your appearance. Taking care with what you wear each day is a sign of maturity, and it shows respect to the people you interact with each day. While we certainly don’t judge people for their fashion choices, there’s a lot to be said about the self confidence boost you can get when you’re dressed to impress. 

The bottom line

No matter what style of undershirt you choose, design and fit are crucial for it to function properly underneath your shirt. Tommy John’s commitment to the three F’s (form, function, and fit) began with the first item of clothing we produced - the undershirt. Our collars are made with memory fabric to stay in place and avoid the sloppy look of “bacon neck,” while the long cut comes with a patented design that eliminates excess fabric gut. Our undershirts can perfectly complement your outfit and provide a layer of protection between you and your clothes - whether you’re wearing your Sunday best or suiting up for some heavy yard work. 

And just like everything else we make, our undershirts are backed with our Best Pair Guarantee, which means if you don’t absolutely love it the first time you try it, you won’t have to pay for it.