Reusable sticky bras offer a convenient and comfortable alternative to traditional underwire bras, but their stickiness can diminish over time. Maintaining their adhesive power is crucial for ensuring comfort and support. This guide will cover everything you need to know to keep your reusable sticky bra sticky and in top condition.
Why Does My Sticky Bra Lose Its Stickiness?
Before we dive into solutions, let's understand why your sticky bra loses its adhesive strength. Several factors contribute to this:
- Body Oils and Lotions: Natural body oils, lotions, perfumes, and even deodorants can interfere with the adhesive's ability to grip your skin.
- Dust and Debris: Small particles of dust, lint, or other debris can accumulate on the adhesive surface, reducing its effectiveness.
- Washing and Drying: Improper washing and drying techniques can damage the adhesive, leading to a loss of stickiness.
- Repeated Use: With each use, the adhesive naturally degrades, leading to a decrease in stickiness. This is simply a matter of wear and tear.
- Storage: Improper storage can expose the adhesive to air and moisture, affecting its performance.
How to Clean Your Reusable Sticky Bra?
Proper cleaning is paramount to maintaining the stickiness of your reusable bra. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Rinse with Cool Water: Gently rinse the adhesive side of the bra under cool running water. Avoid using hot water, as this can damage the adhesive.
- Gentle Soap (Optional): If necessary, use a mild, unscented soap and gently wash the bra. Avoid harsh detergents or soaps with strong fragrances.
- Air Dry: Allow the bra to air dry completely. Never put it in a dryer or use harsh heat to dry it. Lay it flat on a clean, dry surface.
- Protect the Adhesive: Once dry, consider placing a protective sheet or liner between the two adhesive sides to prevent premature adhesion and maintain their stickiness.
How Often Should I Clean My Reusable Sticky Bra?
Ideally, you should clean your reusable sticky bra after each use. This helps remove any accumulated body oils, lotions, or debris that could compromise its adhesion.
What About Damaged Adhesive?
Over time, the adhesive may start to lose its effectiveness even with proper cleaning. While you can’t fully restore the adhesive, here are some tips to prolong its lifespan:
- Try a gentle adhesive refresh: Some individuals swear by using a very small amount of isopropyl alcohol (70% concentration) to gently clean the adhesive side, followed by thorough air drying. This is best used sparingly as too much alcohol can damage the adhesive completely. Always test this on a small inconspicuous area first.
Can I Use Adhesive Refreshers or Sprays?
There are adhesive refreshers available on the market specifically designed for sticky bras. However, always read the product instructions carefully and test a small area before applying it to the entire surface.
How to Store Your Reusable Sticky Bra?
Proper storage is also essential to maintain the stickiness of your reusable bra.
- Keep it Dry: Store your bra in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or humidity.
- Protect the Adhesive: Always store the bra with the adhesive sides separated, either using the protective sheet provided, or a piece of clean parchment or wax paper.
How Long Do Reusable Sticky Bras Last?
The lifespan of a reusable sticky bra depends on how often you use it, how well you care for it, and the quality of the bra itself. With proper care, you can expect a reusable sticky bra to last for several months or even longer.
By following these tips, you can significantly extend the lifespan and stickiness of your reusable sticky bra, ensuring comfort and support for longer. Remember, proper care and cleaning are key to maximizing the life of your reusable sticky bra.
