There are things that last a lifetime - such as a slate roof, a cast iron skillet, and even, God help us all, a Swiss Army Knife. Perhaps even Twinkies. Most everything, however, doesn't have a lifetime guarantee because manufacturers recognize it'll wear out with enough use.
Buying a quality open bust corset is a form of investment, especially if you are into waist training and wear it on an everyday basis. However, there is no guarantee of everlasting durability from one-time purchasing of an open bust corset.
Yet if you're spending a decent amount, you'll be looking for the maximum return on your open-bust corset. How long can you expect to use an open bust corset for and how will you make the best of it?
Average Life of an Open Bust Corset
Generally, a quality open bust corset should last for two years with daily wear. If you are new to waist training, you might size down before you wear it out. Once you have reached your goal measurements and are maintaining them, watch for signs of wear such as reduced compression, fabric tears, or discomfort during wear.
A quality open bust corset can give you about 10,000 hours of wear. With 12 hours a day, that gives you roughly 800 days, or just over two years. Of course, less frequent use means less wear and tear. If you only wear your open bust corset on special occasions and care for it properly, it could last for decades.
Buy the Right Size and Style Open Bust Corset
One of the major mistakes consumers make is buying the wrong size or style open-bust corset for the kind of body they possess; this can affect not just comfort but also result in premature damage.
Get the most out of your open bust corset by taking precise measurements and choosing styles that suit your body type. If you have a shorter torso, for instance, you should avoid longline open bust corsets. For those with straighter figures, you should select a style with less spring. Think of it like buying shoes; you wouldn't squeeze into a pair two sizes too small or wear a dress six inches too long. The right size and style will ensure comfort, confidence, effective waist training, and extended open bust corset durability.
Rotate Your Open Bust Corsets
You can wear the same open bust corset daily till it falls apart, or rotate several for longer usage. If you have 5-7 open bust corsets, or more, you can provide time for each to breathe. This will not only make them last longer but also enable you to change between different ones as needed for your various garments.
How to Wear Your Open Bust Corset Appropriately
Your goal in wearing an open bust corset is likely shaping or semi-permanent waist reduction. Wearing an open bust corset correctly involves more than just lacing it up tightly.
Tips to prolong your open bust corset’s life:
- Loosen the laces before taking it off. Don’t rely on the busks alone.
- Avoid over-tightening. This can damage both the garment and your body. If you’re a tightlacing pro, assess the risks carefully.
- Layer underneath it. A camisole or undershirt will cut down the oils and sweat that are degrading the fabric
- Avoid abrasive clothing. Tight jeans rubbing against the bottom edge of your open bust corset can damage it over time.
Proper Care of an Open Bust Corset
Proper care can greatly extend the life of your open bust corset. While professional dry cleaning is ideal, it can be quite expensive.
Open Bust Corset: Air after every wear and spot clean the area in which staining occurs with a mild detergent when needed. Dry Clean Only when absolutely necessary; a washing machine or dryer may be too strenuous. For best results, store flat, or hang by laces over a hanger to give shape.
As your waist training progresses or you lose weight, you may need to size down. The good news is that if you have maintained your open bust corset well, you can resell it to help fund your next purchase.
