How Do You Know When It's Time To Replace Your Bras?

When it comes to shopping for a new bra, many will probably tell you that it's a big priority. Typically bras will stay in rotation until the seams rip or the underwire comes out. While this is a definite sign that you should replace your bra, it's most likely the last sign. Having a good quality bra is essential, not only for style but for comfort. Bra Spectrum explains that a quality bra can help improve your posture and prevent potential spinal problems. The support of a good bra will also help you feel more confident in yourself.

Before picking out new bras, you need to decide when to rid yourself of your old ones. While it may be painful to part with a certain bra that has become a reliable favorite and be forced to invest in a new one, it's the best decision for your health. Instead of dealing with back pain, red marks, and headaches, take some time to examine your bras and determine whether it's time to shop for new ones.

Although the precise moment to replace your bra will depend on various factors, the range is usually anywhere between 6-12 months. According to Knix, the exact date will depend on how many times you use the bra. If you are constantly using the same bra, you will probably need to replace your bra closer to six months. Another factor to consider is the length of time you wear your bra daily. A couple of hours a day versus 8-12 hours per day makes a difference as sweat and oil will ultimately degrade the fabric and cause the bra's quality to diminish over time.

ThirdLove adds that if your straps are starting to feel loose and fall off your shoulder no matter how much you adjust them, it's probably a sign that the bra has lost elasticity. On top of this, if your band is starting to feel loose even when you have it locked on its tightest hook, it's another sign of a loss of elasticity. Once the bra has lost elasticity, it means it has done its time and is no longer going to support you in the way it should. At this point, the fit is no longer ideal and you will need to replace it with a new bra. 

Once you've gotten rid of your old bra, it's time to pick up a new one! To grab the best one for you, there are a few factors to take into account. Aboutanos Plastic Surgery recommends checking if the straps sit nicely on your shoulders without digging into the skin or falling off. You will also want to check to see if the bra's band sits straight across your back. If the band rises or falls, the bra is not sitting well and you should find a new size.

Woman's Day also recommends looking at your cups to see if that size is also fitting properly. If you find that you are spilling over the top of your cups, the bra is probably too small for you. On the other hand, any spaces or gaps mean the bra you are looking at is too big.

Another helpful tip for bra shopping is to take different style tops to try on with it so you can get an idea of what it will look like in various wardrobe scenarios.