How long do bras last?

Bras typically last 6-12 months with proper care and rotation, though this timeline varies significantly based on how often you wear them and the activities they support.

Everyday bras maintain their compression and support for the full year when you rotate between at least three bras and follow a cold-wash, air-dry routine, while sports bras work harder during high-impact activities and often need replacement closer to the 6-month mark or after approximately 30-40 wash cycles.

The biggest factors that extend or shorten this lifespan include your washing practices (heat from dryers breaks down elastic faster than anything else), how frequently you wear each bra, and whether you give the elastic time to recover between wears.

You'll know it's time to replace a bra when the band rides up or feels loose on the tightest hook, straps slip consistently, cups wrinkle or gap, or the garment no longer provides the coverage and support you need to move confidently through your day.