Tommy Bahama swimwear is designed with premium fabrics and an island-inspired aesthetic, making it the go-to choice for stylish resort wear. But to keep your swimwear looking vibrant, fitting comfortably, and lasting season after season, proper care is essential. Whether you’ve invested in a bold one-piece, a relaxed board short, or a sleek bikini, these cleaning and maintenance tips will help you protect your favorite pieces from damage caused by sun, saltwater, chlorine, and general wear.
Rinse Immediately After Every Use
The first rule of swimwear care—always rinse right after swimming. Whether you’ve been lounging by the pool or swimming in the ocean, rinse your Tommy Bahama suit with cold, fresh water as soon as possible. This helps wash away chlorine, salt, sunscreen, and sweat, which can degrade the fabric and elasticity over time.
Quick tip:
Keep a bottle of water in your beach bag to do a quick rinse if you’re far from a shower.
Hand Wash with Mild Detergent
Machine washing may seem convenient, but it can be harsh on delicate swim fabrics. Instead, hand wash your swimwear using a gentle, chemical-free detergent. Fill a sink or basin with cool water and a small amount of soap, and gently swish the swimsuit around for a few minutes.
Avoid:
- Bleach
- Fabric softeners
- Harsh laundry detergents
These products can weaken the fibers and fade the colors of your Tommy Bahama swimwear.
Gently Squeeze—Never Wring Out
After washing, resist the urge to twist or wring your swimsuit. This can stretch out the fabric and ruin the suit’s shape. Instead, press the water out gently with your hands or lay the swimwear flat on a clean towel, then roll it up to absorb excess moisture.
Why it matters:
Maintaining the fabric’s elasticity ensures the swimsuit retains its flattering fit and support.
Air Dry Flat and in the Shade
Drying your swimwear properly is just as important as washing it. Avoid using a dryer or hanging it in direct sunlight, both of which can cause fading and weaken fibers. Lay your swimsuit flat on a towel in a shaded area to dry. This helps preserve the integrity of the material and keeps vibrant prints from dulling.
Extra tip:
Avoid drying on metal surfaces like balconies or towel racks, as they can rust or discolor the fabric.
Rotate Your Swimwear
If you’re on vacation or wearing your swimsuit daily, it’s smart to have more than one. Rotating between swimsuits allows the elastic fibers time to recover, which helps them last longer and keeps the suit snug and supportive.
Remember:
Even the best-quality swimwear like Tommy Bahama needs rest between uses to maintain its shape.
Store Properly Off-Season
When the swim season ends, don’t just toss your suit into a drawer. Make sure it’s completely dry and clean before storing to prevent mildew, odor, or fabric breakdown. Store your Tommy Bahama swimwear flat or gently folded in a breathable fabric bag, not plastic, which can trap moisture.
Avoid storing near:
- Heaters or direct sunlight
- Cedar or mothballs (which can cause chemical reactions with spandex)
Sunscreen & Lotion: Apply Carefully
Sunscreen is vital, but it can stain or break down certain fabrics. Apply lotions and sprays at least 15 minutes before putting on your swimsuit, giving them time to absorb into your skin. This minimizes residue transfer onto your swimwear.
Final Thoughts
Your Tommy Bahama swimwear is an investment in comfort, style, and vacation-ready elegance. By following these simple cleaning and maintenance tips—like rinsing immediately, hand washing, and air drying—you can extend the life of your suit and keep it looking as good as new. With the right care, your island escape wardrobe will be ready for years of sun, sand, and sea.
