While it's generally accepted that knickers should be cleaned after each wear - barring any grimy festival scenarios - the rules around washing are a bit murkier, especially if you have a favourite one.

Many people will happily don their most reliable bra time and again, only tossing it in the wash when they feel it's absolutely necessary. Others won't feel at ease wearing theirs for more than a couple of outings, knowing they just won't feel right without a clean bra, regardless of whether anyone else would notice.

Now, lingerie tech expert Georgina Bibby has weighed in on this age-old debate among bra wearers, revealing the ideal number of wears before a wash. Georgina stated: "It will depend on the wearer and your everyday activities but washing your bra after every two to three wears is a good general rule to go by.

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"As well as maintaining your bras, you should also be looking at replacing the old ones. The general rule of thumb is to replace bras after about 180 wears."

Bibby also encouraged readers to take proper care of their bras, which can be quite delicate, to ensure they stay in top condition for longer. She advised: "When washing your bra, be sure to clasp it and use a mesh garment bag to cushion the bra and keep it from twisting and tangling in your washing machine'.

"Washing it on a gentle cycle with cold water, avoiding the dryer, and resorting to air drying and storing them flat instead of rolling them up will ensure the bra keeps its shape and quality."

According to a revealing UK-based survey conducted by Mashable, 35 per cent of women confessed to wearing a bra at least five times before sticking it in the wash, while 11 per cent cleaned theirs after every use. In a separate interview with Glamour, lingerie technologist, Lois Siciliano, also recommended a two to three-wear rule when it comes to bras, warning that overwashing could well damage the elasticity.

Lois explained: "When it comes to normal use, every two to three wears is fine. Obviously, that's not the case if it's a sports bra you're wearing to an intense gym class or if it's a hot summer's day. If you're particularly sweaty, you should wash the bra each wear."