How to Wash Your Swimwear to Make It Last Longer

Quick Answer

To make your swimwear last, rinse it in cold water immediately after swimming, then hand wash with a mild detergent. Avoid wringing, hot water, and the dryer. If you must machine wash, use a delicate bag and cold cycle.

Your favorite swimsuit works hard—chlorine, salt, sunscreen, and sand all take a toll. But with the right washing routine, you can keep colors vibrant and fabrics stretchy for many seasons. Here's how to wash swimwear effectively.

The golden rule: rinse after every wear and wash gently. Whether you're caring for a swim bra or a tankini, these steps will help you avoid common mistakes that ruin swimwear.

Why Swimwear Needs Special Care

Swimwear fabrics, like nylon and spandex, are delicate. Chlorine and salt water break down elastic fibers, while sunscreen and body oils can cause discoloration. Heat and rough handling accelerate damage, leading to sagging and fading.

By adopting a simple post-swim routine, you can significantly extend the life of your suits. Always check the care label first, but the following steps apply to most swimwear.

Pre-Rinse: The First Line of Defense

As soon as you're done swimming, rinse your swimwear in cold running water. This removes chlorine, salt, and other chemicals before they set in. If you can't rinse right away, keep your suit in a wet bag until you can.

Do not let your swimsuit sit in a plastic bag while damp—this encourages mildew and odors. A quick rinse is the simplest way to protect your investment.

Hand Washing vs. Machine Washing

Hand washing is the safest method. Fill a basin with cold water and a small amount of mild detergent (free of bleach or fabric softener). Submerge your swimsuit, gently squeeze it, and let it soak for 10-15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with cold water.

If you prefer machine washing, place your swimsuit in a mesh lingerie bag and use the delicate cycle with cold water. Skip the spin cycle if possible, as it can stretch the fabric. Always use a gentle detergent.

Drying and Storing

Never wring out your swimsuit—press it gently between two towels to remove excess water. Lay it flat to dry away from direct sunlight, which can fade colors. Avoid the dryer entirely.

Once dry, store your swimwear folded in a drawer. Hanging can stretch straps and elastic. Keep it away from rough surfaces that could snag the fabric.

Step-by-Step Swimwear Washing Routine

1. Rinse Immediately: After swimming, rinse your swimsuit in cold water for a few minutes to remove chlorine, salt, and sunscreen. Checkpoint: If you can't rinse right away, store it in a wet bag.
2. Hand Wash Gently: Use a mild detergent and cold water. Soak for 10-15 minutes, then gently squeeze—never scrub or wring. Avoid hot water and bleach at all costs.
3. Machine Wash as a Backup: If using a machine, place the suit in a mesh lingerie bag and select the delicate cycle with cold water and gentle detergent. Skip the spin cycle to prevent stretching.
4. Dry Flat: Press out excess water with a towel, then lay flat to dry in the shade. Never use a dryer or hang wet swimwear. Direct sunlight can cause fading.
5. Store Properly: Fold your dry swimsuit and keep it in a drawer. Avoid hanging to prevent strap stretching. Check for any remaining sand or debris before storing.

Caring for Your Swimwear Essentials

• Original Bra - Nude Three: These bras are beautifully soft and gentle, yet supportive. If you wear a swim bra, gentle handling is key. Soft, supportive materials need proper washing to maintain their structure.
• Racerback Bralette - Petrol Blue: Blue but make it bold - Petrol Blue is a colour you NEED in your underwear drawer. Bright colors fade easily; washing in cold water and air-drying helps preserve the bold hue.

With these swimwear care tips, you can keep your suits looking new for many beach days. Remember: rinse, wash gently, dry flat, and store correctly. Your future self—and your swimwear—will thank you.