How to Care for a Black Mesh Babydoll Nightie

By Hopeless Lingerie | Australian | Published: 2026-10-30

Category: How-to Guides

Keep your black mesh babydoll nightie looking new with gentle hand washing, careful drying, and proper storage. Follow these simple steps to preserve the delicate lace and mesh.

Quick answer

Hand wash your black mesh babydoll in cold water with a gentle detergent, then lay it flat to air dry away from sunlight. This routine preserves the delicate lace, satin bows, and mesh structure.

Why hand washing matters for your Estelle Babydoll

Machine washing can snag the open-back hook-and-eye closure and the fine gathered lace on a black mesh babydoll. The Estelle Babydoll Black Mesh with Lace Frill, made to order in Melbourne, uses a soft mesh that benefits from gentle handling. Hot water and harsh detergents can weaken the elastic and dull the black dye, so cool water and a mild soap are your safest choices.

Avoid common mistakes that damage mesh and lace

Wringing or twisting the wet babydoll can distort the gathered lace and satin bows. Instead, gently press out excess water with a clean towel. Also, never hang a mesh nightie by its straps — the weight can stretch the fabric. Always dry it flat on a drying rack or towel.

Step-by-step care routine

Prepare a cool wash basin: Fill a basin with cool water and add a small amount of a gentle lingerie detergent. Avoid fabric softeners and bleach, which can break down mesh fibers and dull the black color.
Submerge and gently agitate: Place the babydoll in the water and gently swish it with your hands. Focus on any soiled areas, but do not rub or scrub the lace. Let it soak for no more than 10 minutes. Over-soaking can weaken the mesh; set a timer to avoid forgetting.
Rinse and remove excess water: Drain the soapy water and refill with cool clean water. Swish the babydoll to rinse, then repeat until no suds remain. Lift the nightie out and press it between two clean, dry towels to absorb moisture. Never wring or twist.
Air dry flat away from heat: Lay the babydoll flat on a drying rack or a dry towel, reshaping the lace and satin bows. Keep it out of direct sunlight and away from radiators or heaters. Do not hang it by the straps. Sunlight can cause black mesh to fade unevenly, so choose a shaded spot.
Store properly to prevent snags: Once fully dry, fold the babydoll and store it in a fabric bag or a drawer lined with acid-free tissue. Avoid hanging it in a crowded closet where the hook-and-eye closure or lace can catch on other garments. If you must hang it, use a padded hanger and hook the closure carefully.

Product care notes

Estelle Babydoll Black Mesh with Lace Frill: This 1960s inspired black mesh babydoll features delicate gathered lace, satin bows, and an open back with a hook-and-eye closure. It is made to order in the Melbourne studio. The open back and lace frills are especially vulnerable to snagging in a machine, so hand washing is the best way to maintain the original fit and detailing.
Estelle Babydoll Black Mesh with Lace Frill