Investing in a bathing suit from a trusted local store is only the first step to looking great at the pool or beach. To make your swimwear last beyond a single season, proper care is essential. From rinsing techniques to storage hacks, this guide covers the best practices for caring for your bathing suits bought from stores near you.
Why Proper Care Matters
Bathing suits are made with delicate fabrics like spandex, Lycra, and nylon, which are constantly exposed to harsh conditions—chlorine, saltwater, sunscreen, and sun. Even the highest-quality suits can break down quickly without the right care. By learning a few simple habits, you’ll extend the life of your swimwear and maintain its shape, color, and elasticity.
1. Rinse Immediately After Wearing
Chlorine and saltwater are the biggest enemies of swimwear fabric. After each use, rinse your suit in cool, clean water as soon as possible—even if you don’t plan to wash it right away. This quick step removes harmful chemicals, sand, and sweat before they can cause long-term damage.
Tip: Avoid rinsing in hot water—it can break down elasticity faster.
2. Hand Wash with Gentle Detergent
Washing machines can stretch, snag, and weaken your bathing suit. Instead, hand wash your suit in lukewarm water using a gentle, bleach-free detergent specifically made for delicates or swimwear.
Steps:
- Fill a sink or basin with lukewarm water.
- Add a teaspoon of gentle detergent.
- Soak for 10–15 minutes.
- Gently rub trouble spots, such as the underarm or bottom areas.
- Rinse thoroughly with cool water.
3. Avoid Wringing or Twisting
After washing, resist the urge to wring out your suit. Twisting can distort the shape and damage the fibers.
Better alternative:
Lay the suit flat on a clean towel, roll the towel up with the suit inside, and press gently to absorb excess water.
4. Air Dry in the Shade
Never tumble dry your swimsuit. Heat from dryers—or even direct sunlight—can break down elastic and fade colors. Instead, lay the suit flat on a towel in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
Don’ts:
- Don’t hang it by the straps (they’ll stretch out).
- Don’t dry on radiators, metal surfaces, or near windows with strong sunlight.
5. Rotate Your Swimwear
If you swim regularly, rotate between multiple suits. This gives the fabric time to recover its shape and dry completely between uses, which extends the lifespan of each piece.
6. Avoid Sitting on Rough Surfaces
Pool decks, rocks, and rough tiles can snag and tear delicate swimsuit fabrics. Always sit on a towel or wear a cover-up to protect your suit when not in the water.
7. Handle Sunscreen and Oils with Care
Oils, lotions, and sunscreens—especially chemical ones—can weaken fabric and cause staining. Allow sunscreen to fully absorb before putting on your suit, and consider using mineral-based or swimsuit-safe sunscreen for better preservation.
8. Store Properly Between Uses
Don’t toss a damp bathing suit into a plastic bag for hours. If you must travel, use a breathable mesh pouch. At home, store your clean, dry suits flat in a drawer or hung on a padded hanger in a cool, dry space.
Conclusion
Taking a few extra steps to care for your bathing suits will protect your investment, especially when you’ve chosen quality pieces from trusted stores near you. With gentle washing, smart drying practices, and proper storage, you’ll keep your swimwear vibrant, supportive, and stylish—ready for every pool day or beach trip ahead.
