Swimwear is more than just a seasonal essential—it’s an investment in your comfort, style, and confidence. Whether you’re lounging poolside, diving into the ocean, or sunbathing at the beach, your swimsuits face a lot of wear and tear. From chlorine and saltwater to sunscreen and sun exposure, these elements can quickly break down even the best-quality suits.
So how do you keep your favorite bikinis and one-pieces looking fresh, stretchy, and vibrant for more than just a season? In this guide, we’ll show you how to care for your swimwear to make it last, with easy, expert-backed tips you can use every time you hit the water.
Why Proper Swimwear Care Matters
Swimsuits are made from delicate fabrics like nylon, spandex, and Lycra—materials that offer stretch, support, and fit. But they’re also prone to wear when exposed to:
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Chlorine
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Saltwater
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UV rays
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Sunscreens and oils
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Rough pool edges or sand
Neglecting proper care can lead to:
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Faded colors
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Loss of elasticity
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Pilling or fabric damage
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Stretched-out fits
By following a few simple steps, you can extend the life of your swimwear and get more wear out of every piece.
1. Rinse Immediately After Every Use
The most important swimwear care rule? Rinse as soon as possible.
Chlorine, salt, and sunscreen can cling to your swimsuit fibers and cause long-term damage. Rinsing with cool, fresh water helps remove these residues before they settle in.
Pro Tip: If you’re at the beach or pool and can’t rinse right away, bring a reusable water bottle and give your swimsuit a quick rinse in your bag until you can wash it properly.
2. Hand Wash—Always
Washing machines are too rough on swimwear fabrics. Hand washing is gentle, effective, and the best way to maintain elasticity and color.
How to Hand Wash Your Swimwear:
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Fill a sink or basin with cool or lukewarm water.
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Add a small amount of gentle detergent (preferably made for delicates or swimwear).
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Gently swish your swimsuit in the water for 3–5 minutes.
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Rinse thoroughly with cool water to remove all soap.
Avoid: Hot water, harsh detergents, or bleach—all of which can weaken swimwear fibers.
3. Avoid Wringing or Twisting
It might be tempting to wring out your bikini after washing, but doing so stretches out the fabric and damages the fibers.
Instead:
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Gently press the water out by rolling your swimsuit in a clean towel.
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Lay it flat to dry (preferably in the shade).
Never hang it by the straps—this can lead to stretching and loss of shape over time.
4. Dry Flat and Out of Direct Sunlight
Sunlight can fade even the most vibrant swimwear colors. Instead of drying your suit in direct sunlight or using a clothes dryer, lay it flat in the shade on a clean towel or drying rack.
Avoid:
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Radiators or heating vents
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Tumble dryers
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Hanging your suit over a shower rod (this causes stretching)
Quick Tip: Rotate the suit halfway through drying to prevent mildew and keep the fabric even.
5. Rotate Between Multiple Swimsuits
Swimwear needs time to return to its original shape between wears. If you swim often, alternate between two or more suits to give each one time to recover.
This helps preserve elasticity and prevents excessive wear from daily use.
6. Watch Where You Sit
Pool edges, wooden decks, and rough concrete can snag or pill swimwear fabric. Always use a towel before sitting down, especially on rough surfaces.
Bonus Tip: Be cautious with velcro and sharp objects in your beach bag—these can easily damage delicate materials.
7. Use the Right Products
Sunscreen is essential, but many formulas contain oils or chemicals that can damage swimwear. Let sunscreen fully absorb into your skin before putting on your swimsuit, and avoid direct contact with the fabric when applying sprays.
Look for:
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Reef-safe, fabric-friendly sunscreens
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Detergents designed for swimwear or delicates
8. Store Properly Between Seasons
At the end of summer, make sure your swimwear is completely clean and dry before storing it.
Store in:
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A breathable cotton or mesh bag (avoid plastic bags)
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A cool, dry drawer or closet
Avoid damp bathrooms, sealed containers, or direct contact with perfumes or lotions.
Summary: Quick Swimwear Care Checklist
✅ Rinse immediately after each use
✅ Hand wash with gentle detergent
✅ Don’t wring—press water out gently
✅ Lay flat to dry in the shade
✅ Avoid machine washers and dryers
✅ Rotate between swimsuits
✅ Sit on a towel to prevent snags
✅ Store in a cool, dry place
Make Your Swimwear Last Season After Season
With just a little extra care, your favorite swimsuit can last for years—staying stretchy, stylish, and photo-ready. Treat your bikinis and one-pieces like the delicate garments they are, and they’ll reward you with lasting fit and color.
Looking for high-quality, long-lasting swimwear? Browse our curated collection of bikinis and one-pieces designed to resist fading, stretching, and wear—so you can dive in again and again with confidence.
