How to Wash and Care for Your Briefs So They Last Longer

How to Wash and Care for Your Briefs So They Last Longer

When you find a pair of briefs that fit perfectly, feel amazing, and move with you (hi, MANBUNS Micro Modal!), the last thing you want is for them to lose their softness or stretch before their time. Great underwear is an investment in comfort — and with the right care routine, your favorite pairs can stay looking and feeling brand new for much longer.

Here’s your complete guide on how to wash and care for men’s briefs so they stay fresh, soft, and supportive.

1. Check the Fabric First (It Matters More Than You Think)

Not all underwear should be washed the same way. Micro Modal, cotton, bamboo, and performance blends each have different needs — but the general rule: gentle care = longer life.

For MANBUNS Micro Modal briefs specifically, cool water, mild detergent, and gentle dry cycles keep them soft and stretchy.

2. Always Separate Lights and Darks

We’re all guilty of tossing everything into one load… but your underwear deserves better.
Separating helps:

  • Prevent color fading

  • Reduce lint transfer

  • Keep black briefs inky black

  • Keep bright colors bold

Your drawer will thank you.

3. Use Cold Water — Your Briefs Love It

Hot water breaks down elastics and the delicate fibers that make your briefs comfortable.
Cold water protects:

  • Stretch

  • Shape

  • Softness

  • Color

Bonus: Cold water is also more eco-friendly.

4. Choose a Gentle, Mild Detergent

Harsh detergents can wear down the waistband and weaken the fabric. Look for:

  • Dye-free

  • Fragrance-free

  • Delicate formulas

Your skin and your underwear will both appreciate it.

5. Wash on the “Delicate” or “Gentle” Cycle

A rough wash cycle is like sending your briefs through a CrossFit workout — lots of stress and unpredictable results.

Gentle cycles reduce:

  • Pilling

  • Stretch loss

  • Fabric breakdown

This is especially important for Micro Modal because it’s soft but sensitive to friction.

6. Skip the Fabric Softener (Seriously)

Fabric softener sticks to the fibers and can cause them to lose breathability.
It also coats elastics, making them wear out faster.

If you want softness, Micro Modal already does the job — no softener needed.

7. Air Dry Whenever Possible

Dryers = the number one underwear killer.

Heat damages elastic quickly, causing:

  • Sagging waistbands

  • Loss of shape

  • Stiffness

  • Shrinkage

Air drying is the gold standard. Just lay them flat or hang them up.
If you must use a dryer, choose tumble dry low.

8. Store Your Briefs the Right Way

Once they’re clean and dry, give them a good home.
Avoid overstuffed drawers — compression damages waistbands and distorts shape.

Fold or roll them neatly, Marie Kondo–style. Fresh, crisp, tidy.

9. Know When It’s Time to Retire Old Pairs

Even with perfect care, briefs have a lifespan. If you notice:

  • Relaxed elastic

  • Fading

  • Holes

  • Loss of shape

  • Fabric thinning

…it’s time to thank them for their service and upgrade.

Consider it self-care.

Taking care of your briefs is simple — and it makes a huge difference in how long they last. A few small laundry changes can keep your MANBUNS pairs soft, stretchy, and supportive wash after wash.

Whether you’re refreshing your top drawer or adding new colors to your rotation, proper care will keep every pair feeling like the first wear.