9 Rules For Washing Your Bras: What Your Lingerie Needs From You

It's an unparalleled relationship. You're supported, consistently, each and every day. You've probably been going steady for years, and you never have to make those oh-so-awkward parental introductions. Yes readers, we're obviously talking about the tried-and-true commitment that exists between you and your bra.

The average woman owns nine bras but only wears six of them regularly. When you compare those statistics to the number of other outfit essentials you own, it becomes clear that extending the longevity of your lingerie is probably a good idea -- especially as those undergarments can get quite pricey. Redbook Magazine reports that that women spend around $16 billion on bras each year, worldwide.

In an effort to help you increase the longevity of your lingerie, we spoke to a few experts who helped us put together a list of nine hard and fast rules to follow when it comes to bra care.

"Most of us have never been schooled in how to take care of our bras," said Susan Nethero, founder of Intimacy boutiques, myintimacy.com (aka "The Bra Whisperer").

Let us know if there are any foolproof tips we missed that you've picked up over the years!