Swimsuits Care: How to Wash Swimsuits, Prevent Fading, and Other Care Tips

September 23, 2024
by Brodie Cook

Caring for your swimsuit is simpler than you think. Just a few easy steps will keep your favourite beachwear looking good for many summers. If you love the pool or prefer the beach, proper care will save you money and keep you stylish.

In this post, we’ll share simple tips to make your swimwear last longer. From washing to storing, we’ve got it all. Let’s jump in and learn how to keep your swimsuits in excellent condition!

Why Should I Wash My Swimsuit After Every Use?

Washing your swimsuit after each use is important to keep it in good shape. Chlorine from pools, salt from the ocean, sunscreen, and body sweat & oils can actually break down the fabric. These elements can weaken the fibres, making your swimsuit lose its shape, stretch out, or feel less snug. Over time, the elastic can wear out, causing it to sag. The colours might also fade, leaving your suit looking dull and worn.

If you’ve just been sunbathing, a quick rinse is usually fine. But after swimming, it’s best to give your swimsuit a thorough wash with fresh water. This helps remove all the damaging substances, keeping the fabric strong and the colours bright. By taking a few minutes to care for your swimsuit each time, you can make it last much longer, saving you from having to buy a new one too soon.

Can I Put My Swimsuit in the Washing Machine?

It's best to avoid putting your swimsuit in the washing machine. Washing your suit by hand helps your suit last longer. Washing machines can be rough on swimsuits. They can stretch out the fabric, damage the padding, and loosen the ties. This can make your suit lose its shape and fit.

If you must use a machine, do it only once in a while. Use these steps:

Put the suit in a mesh bag to protect it.
Use cold water and a gentle cycle.
Add a small amount of mild detergent.
Don't use the spin cycle.
Take the suit out right away when the wash is done.

Remember, even with these steps, machine washing can still wear out your swimsuit faster than handwashing. So, try to hand wash whenever you can.

How Do I Properly Handwash My Swimsuit?

Handwashing your swimsuit is simple and helps it stay in great condition. Follow these steps to do it right:

Get Ready

First, untie any straps or loosen any fastenings to avoid stretching. Fill your sink with cool water, as hot water can break down the elastic in your suit. Cool water helps the fabric maintain its stretch and keeps colours vibrant.

Wash

Add a Lucent Globe Laundry Detergent Sheet to the water. This eco-friendly option is gentle on delicate fabrics like swimwear. Let the sheet dissolve, then gently swirl the swimsuit in the water. Avoid scrubbing or twisting, as this can damage the fabric and cause it to lose its shape. If there are any sunscreen or oil stains, gently work the detergent into those areas using your fingers.

Rinse

Rinse the swimsuit under cool, running water until the water runs clear and all detergent is removed. Any leftover detergent can build up and weaken the fibres over time, leading to fading or stretching.

Dry

To dry, don’t wring or twist the swimsuit. Instead, lay it flat on a clean towel, place another towel on top, and press down to absorb excess water. Then, lay it flat in a shaded area to air dry. Direct sunlight can fade colours and break down the fabric, so drying in the shade helps maintain its colour and elasticity. Avoid hanging the suit, as it can stretch out due to the weight of the water.

For more helpful tips, check out our guide on handwashing clothes!

Should I Wash a New Swimsuit Before Wearing It?

Yes, you should wash your new swimsuit before wearing it. This has two main benefits. First, it removes any dust or chemicals from the store or packaging. Second, it helps lock in the colours, making them last longer.

To do this, mix about a quart of cool water with two tablespoons of white vinegar in your sink. Soak your swimsuit in this solution for 20 to 30 minutes. After soaking, rinse the suit thoroughly with cool water to remove any vinegar residue. Don’t worry about the vinegar smell, it disappears as the swimsuit dries.

Once rinsed, lay the swimsuit flat to dry in a shaded area. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can fade the colours. This simple step not only ensures your swimsuit is clean but also helps it stay vibrant and last longer. You’ll feel great knowing it’s fresh and ready for its first wear!

How to Remove Stains from a Swimsuit?

Getting stains out of your swimsuit is easier than you think. The key is to act quickly. As soon as you notice a stain, rinse it with cool water to prevent it from setting. For tougher stains like sunscreen or makeup, gently rub a small amount of dissolved eco-friendly laundry detergent sheet, like Lucent Globe, onto the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes to break down the residue.

Afterwards, hand wash the swimsuit in cool water to remove any remaining traces. Avoid using bleach or harsh cleaners, as these can damage the fabric and fade the colours. For oily stains, a tiny bit of detergent dish sheet dissolved in water can help lift the oil. Once you’ve treated the stain, rinse the suit thoroughly with cool water to remove all soap.

How Can I Make My Swimsuit Last Longer?

If you want your swimsuit to last, there are a few simple things you can do. First, avoid wearing the same suit every day. Swimsuits need time to bounce back to their original shape, so it’s a good idea to have at least two and alternate between them.

When you're out and about, be mindful of where you sit. Rough surfaces like concrete or sand can wear down the fabric. It’s better to sit on a towel or a chair to protect your suit.

Try to steer clear of hot tubs. The high temperature and harsh chemicals can damage the fabric. If you do plan to take a dip in one, consider wearing an older swimsuit you don’t mind getting a little worn out.

When you’re done using your suit, let it dry completely before putting it away. Store it flat in a cool, dry place to avoid stretching. Hanging it up can cause it to lose its shape over time.

With a little extra care, your swimsuit can stay in great condition for many summers. These simple tips will help extend its life and keep it looking fresh.

What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid?

Taking care of your swimsuit isn’t hard, but there are a few mistakes that can cause trouble. Using hot water or strong soaps is one of them. Both can weaken the fabric and cause the colours to fade. It's always best to stick with cool water and a gentle detergent to keep your suit looking fresh.

Another issue is rough handling. Twisting or wringing out your swimsuit to get rid of water can stretch and damage the fabric. Instead, gently press out the water using a towel. This helps the suit retain its shape without putting stress on the material.

How you dry your swimsuit matters too. Hanging it by the straps might seem convenient, but it can stretch them out over time. Also, leaving your wet suit crumpled in a bag for hours can lead to mould and unpleasant odours. It’s important to let it dry flat in a cool, shady spot.

Machine washing and drying might seem like a quick solution, but they're too harsh for swimsuits. Hand washing is always the better choice to make sure the fabric stays intact and lasts longer.

How to Deal with Specific Swimwear Issues

How to Remove Sunscreen Stains

Sunscreen stains can be a common issue, but they’re easy to handle. The moment you spot a stain, apply a bit of gentle soap directly to the area. Let it sit for a few minutes to break down the oils, then rinse with cool water. For tougher stains, you can create a paste using water and baking soda, applying it gently to the stain before rinsing again. Acting quickly helps prevent the stain from setting in.

How to Fix Stretched-Out Swimsuits

If your swimsuit is starting to feel a bit loose, there's a simple trick to help it regain its shape. Soak the suit in cool water mixed with a small amount of baby shampoo for about 30 minutes. The baby shampoo helps relax the fibres. After soaking, rinse the swimsuit thoroughly with cool water and lay it flat to dry. This method can help the fabric tighten back up, making your swimsuit fit better.

How to Prevent Faded Colors

Fading can be a big problem, especially if you're in the sun or pool often. To keep your swimsuit’s colours bright, always rinse it in cool water right after wearing it. This washes away any chlorine, salt, or sunscreen that could cause fading. Use a mild soap when washing and be sure to dry your swimsuit in the shade, as direct sunlight can speed up colour loss. If you have a new swimsuit, soaking it in a mix of water and vinegar before its first use can give the colours an extra layer of protection.

Remember, quick action often works best for these issues. Taking good care of your swimsuit problem as soon as you notice it can help your swimsuit stay in great shape for longer.

Frequently Asked Questions About How to Clean Swimsuits

Can I use regular detergent to wash my swimwear?

It’s best to avoid using regular detergent on your swimwear. Regular detergents are often too harsh for delicate swimsuit fabrics and can cause wear and tear, leading to fading, stretching, or weakening of the material. Harsh chemicals in standard detergents can break down the fibres and elastic, shortening the life of your swimsuit.

For the best care, use a gentle detergent made for delicates, or opt for an eco-friendly alternative like Lucent Globe Detergent Sheets. These are designed to clean gently without damaging the fabric, helping your swimwear maintain its shape, colour, and durability for much longer. This extra care can keep your suits looking fresh throughout the season.

How can I remove odours from my swimsuit?

To remove odours from your swimsuit, soak it in a mixture of cool water and white vinegar for about 30 minutes before washing. This helps break down any lingering smells from perspiration, chlorine, or salt water. Vinegar is a natural deodorizer that can reduce unpleasant odours without harming the fabric. After soaking, rinse your suit thoroughly and wash it as usual using a gentle detergent.

Avoid leaving your swimsuit damp for too long, as moisture can trap odours and bacteria, making them harder to remove later. Always rinse and dry your suit right after wearing it, especially if it has been exposed to chlorine or sweat. Proper care can help keep your swimsuit fresh and extend its lifespan.

Should I use a dryer to dry my bathing suit?

You should avoid using a dryer to dry your bathing suit, as the heat can weaken the elastic fibres and cause the fabric to lose its shape. The intense tumbling can also lead to stretching or damage, reducing the lifespan of your swimsuit. Instead, gently press out excess water by rolling your suit in a towel, which helps to preserve the delicate fabric without causing unnecessary stress.

For best results, lay your swimsuit flat to dry in a shaded area. Direct sunlight can cause fading and degrade the fibres over time, so keeping it out of the sun helps maintain its colour and elasticity. Proper air drying ensures your suit retains its shape and durability for many seasons to come.

Is it safe to wash my swimsuit with other garments?

It's best to wash your swimsuit separately from other garments to avoid potential damage. Clothes with zippers, buttons, or rough textures can easily snag or tear the delicate fabric of your swimsuit. Even softer items like towels can cause friction that leads to pilling or weakening of the fibres, reducing the swimsuit’s lifespan.

By washing your suit on its own, you can ensure it gets the gentle care it needs. If you must wash it with other items, choose similar fabrics like other swimwear or delicate clothing. Always use a mesh laundry bag to add an extra layer of protection, keeping your suit safe from damage during the wash. This simple step helps keep your swimsuit in top shape for longer.