It’s true, there aren’t just pretty underthings in silk, lace and satin lying snugly between cedar planks; there is a sinister force at work. One that could cost you hundreds of dollars.

At Secret Drawers Lingerie we always tell people to hand wash their underwear, bras, garters and fine silks and lace. This is because the spandex contained within those items breaks down more quickly under the strain of machine washing, the strong chemical detergents and in the heat of the dryer.

But the fact is, some people just don’t follow our advice. Many people throw their lingerie in with their socks and shirts and many times the lingerie comes out just fine.

Other times, it costs you hundreds of dollars.

What people don’t realize is the mechanisms in modern washing machines are extremely strong. These mechanisms can pull the bones, the stiff wire beneath each cup, right out of the bra. The machines can also grab and bunch and twist your lacy thong into an unrecognizable, inhuman shape.

But to add insult to injury, both thongs and bra boning can make its way to the motor of the washing machine. The boning or thong gets wrapped around the motor and hampers the spinning until the motor is burned out completely. This can mean a big repair bill or an even heftier replacement bill.

But don’t worry. You don’t have to fall victim to the dangers in your washer.

Next time we will outline two ways to save yourself from your underwear.