A bra is an essential piece of clothing that helps enhance a woman’s figure, creating a beautiful and well-proportioned silhouette. It’s not enough to just pick any bra you like; you should always consider the right size and fit for your body shape. This not only boosts your confidence when wearing a bra but also promotes good breast health. Although there are many styles and designs available today, some women still tend to wear the same bra repeatedly without replacing it. Over time, this can lead to wear and tear that might negatively affect breast health, such as skin problems or sagging.
Generally, a bra’s lifespan is about 6 to 8 months, though this depends on how often you wear it. It’s recommended to rotate several bras each week to extend their durability and keep them in good condition.
1. Underwire is misshapen or poking out of the bra
If the underwire becomes bent or pokes through the fabric, it can distort the shape of your breasts and cause skin irritation or even wounds in the chest area.
2. Broken or loose hooks
If the hooks are damaged, missing, or the seams are coming apart, it’s time to replace your bra immediately. Wearing a bra in this condition can lead to poor support and may cause your breasts to sag.
3. The elastic band around the bra is stretched out
Another sign it’s time to buy a new bra is when the elastic band has become loose and no longer fits snugly. This not only reduces comfort but also fails to properly support and shape your bust.
4. Bra straps are sagging
If the straps have become loose or stretched and no amount of adjusting helps, it means they’ve worn out and you should replace your bra as soon as possible.
5. The inner lining is torn or has dark stains
Torn fabric inside your bra can cause discomfort and skin irritation. Dark stains might be mold or mildew caused by moisture buildup, increasing the risk of skin infections.
Sources: goodhousekeeping.com, fashion.allwomenstalk.com, kapook.com