Cotton underwear

Fabric and comfort

Pure cotton stretches out quickly, which is why lingerie makers add a few per cent of elastane. That composition keeps the properties of cotton while allowing the piece to spring back into shape after washing. With bras, look for styles where the cotton sits against the skin and the outer face carries a share of polyamide for durability.

Cotton shrinks at high temperatures, especially in the first wash. Wash at 40 degrees or lower and avoid the tumble dryer if you want to keep the size you bought. White lingerie prefers to be washed separately; coloured cotton loses intensity after a few washes, and chlorine in the water plays its part too.

Choose sizes from the charts shown with each product. Dispatch in 1-2 working days, free delivery over PLN 199, 60-day returns.

If you want cotton against your skin, check the composition of the inner face: many styles have a cotton lining and an outer face with polyamide for durability.

Cotton is what you reach for when underwear has to be worn every day, for hours at a time, with no compromise on breathability. The natural fibre absorbs moisture and lets the skin breathe, which is why it suits people with sensitive skin, women during pregnancy, and anyone who finds lace or smooth microfibre irritating.

When choosing cotton underwear, look at the composition on the label. Pure cotton breathes beautifully, but after a few washes it can stretch and lose its shape. A few per cent of elastane holds the form and stops briefs or a bra shifting during the day. Combed cotton has a smoother, more durable surface than standard cotton, and interlock and single jersey differ in the thickness of the knit: interlock is denser and shows through less.

How to choose your size

What should you watch for? First, the seams - flat, overlocked seams do not print through under fitted clothing. Second, the waist elastic: elastic enclosed in a casing is more comfortable than elastic stitched on top, particularly over a long day. Third, sizing - cotton knit can shrink in its first hot wash, so wash it at 30-40 degrees and keep it out of the tumble dryer.

Which style to choose

Cotton styles cover the full range: from classic full briefs and high-waisted knickers, through boyshorts and men's boxers, to wireless bras and sports tops. If you are looking for underwear for the night or after surgery, go for wireless styles with soft cups. Under a close-fitting dress, a style with smooth-finished edges or a laser-cut edge works better.