Improving our elastic technology

April 8, 2009 10:14 AM

Is anyone working on developing a sturdier elastic band? In other words, isn't there something better than the stuff they use for bras, which inevitably become slack after only a matter of months? Have you come across a bra with an indestructible elastic band?
posted by waterandrock to technology (5 comments total)

I don't have an answer about research, but if you keep elastic out of the dryer, it lasts 2 - 3 times longer. My socks and underwear go on a drying rack. They last pretty well.
posted by theora55 at 10:51 AM on April 8

Hmm. My bras last for years. However, the ones I buy cost anywhere from $60 - $72. I have no choice as I wear a 32/34 F (or DDD) bra, and these are the ones available at Nordstrom. I know I could buy online but I've had bad luck.

I have 3 or 4 bras at all times, and I rotate daily, so I'm wearing the same bra only once every 3 or 4 days.

I never wash in the washer and for the love of god DON't dry them in the dryer, as theora55 said.

Get fitted, and make sure the bra fits you on the FIRST hook. As the elastic stretches (and it will naturally), move to the second, then the third hook. Try a "premium" bra just to see what it's like. Victoria's Secret, by the way, makes the crappiest, most "disposable" bras on the market, period. Try Wacoal, Chantelle, Fantasie, or Le Mystere. (brands may depend on your sizing.)

Today I'm wearing a bra that I've had for almost a year. It's on the 2nd hook now, and I have plenty of life left in the elastic.

Sorry this doesn't strictly answer the "improving elastic" part of your question.
posted by peep at 11:18 AM on April 8 [3 favorites]

I must not Heat.
Heat is the elastics-killer.
Heat is the little-death that brings total obliteration.
I will face my heat.
I will permit it to pass over me and through me.
And when it has gone past I will turn the inner eye to see its path.
Where the heat has gone there will be nothing.
Only I will remain.
posted by jrishel at 11:25 AM on April 8 [4 favorites]

Seconding peep's recommendation for Wacoal. Victoria's Secret is to be shunned, not unlike the plague. Fantasie is good too. They will last longer than a lot of other brands.
posted by Neofelis at 11:41 AM on April 8

Have you come across a bra with an indestructible elastic band?

My bras get tossed in the washer, they get tossed in the dryer, whatever. My Moving Comfort ones are, as far as I can tell, indestructible.
posted by The corpse in the library at 12:04 PM on April 8