Spinning underwear and what it does to the elastic

Short answer: Spinning presses wet, heavy fabric against the drum and stretches the elastic in the waistband. Choose a low spin speed, use a wash bag and let the underwear dry in the air. That way the waistband keeps its shape for longer, and the fit feels like the first day.

Why the spin cycle strains the elastic

During the spin cycle, water is forced out of the fabric with great force, and wet laundry is thrown against the wall of the drum. The elastic in the waistband and around the legs is stretched while it is heavy with water. If this happens often and hard, the elastic slowly loses some of its spring.

The spin speed that protects the waistband

Many machines let you set a lower spin speed, and that is the easiest way to protect your bamboo boxer briefs. A low speed leaves more water in the fabric, but underwear dries quickly anyway. Always read the care label on each garment before you choose a setting.

A wash bag and a gentle program

Put the underwear in a wash bag so it does not catch on zips and buttons from other clothes. The bag also softens the movement inside the drum, so the elastic is pulled less. Choose a gentle program and a low temperature if the label recommends it, and use no more detergent than needed.

How to hang the underwear afterwards

Hang the underwear up as soon as the wash is done, and do not wring it out. Wringing strains the elastic almost as much as a hard spin. Let the waistband hang freely and let the fabric dry in the air, away from direct heat. A tumble dryer or radiator quickly takes the tension out of elastic.

What a tired elastic looks like

A tired elastic shows itself when the waistband starts to roll or the leg openings creep up. The fabric can also look wavy along the seams. This happens gradually, so keep an eye on your underwear over time and adjust your washing before it is worn out completely.

Wet bamboo fabric needs a gentle hand

Bamboo clothing is made from viscose, and wet viscose is softer and more delicate than dry. That makes it extra important to handle it gently while it is wet. Avoid a hard spin, and lift the laundry out of the machine instead of pulling on it, so the fibres are not strained.

Long sleeve models and other clothes in the same load

Wash underwear with garments of the same kind, so it is not rubbed by rough fabrics. That includes your long sleeve models, where long sleeves easily wrap around the underwear and pull on the elastic during the spin. Shake the laundry out before it goes into the machine.

Habits that keep underwear in shape

The good habits are few and simple: low spin speed, a wash bag, hanging up at once and no tumble dryer. A pair of bamboo socks can go in the same bag, since they also have elastic at the top and do best with the same gentle treatment. Together this keeps the elastic in shape.

Frequently asked questions

What spin speed is best for underwear?

A low spin speed is the gentlest on the elastic. Always follow the care label in your underwear, and choose the lowest speed you can live with, so the laundry still does not drip when you hang it up.

Can underwear go in the tumble dryer?

It is best to avoid it, unless the care label says it is fine. Heat and movement can take the tension out of the elastic, so drying in the air is the safest way.

Can a loose elastic become firm again?

You cannot count on it. Once the elastic has been stretched too far, it rarely comes fully back. It is better to prevent the problem with a low spin speed and gentle washing than to try to rescue it later.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.