Bathing suit shorts are a versatile and stylish choice for swimwear, offering both comfort and coverage. To keep them looking vibrant and maintain their fit, it’s essential to care for them properly. Fading colors and stretched-out fabric can quickly ruin your favorite pair, but with the right care routine, you can extend their life and keep them performing at their best. Here’s a complete guide on how to care for your bathing suit shorts to prevent fading and stretching.
1. Rinse Immediately After Use
One of the simplest yet most effective steps is rinsing your bathing suit shorts with cold fresh water right after swimming. Chlorine from pools, salt from ocean water, and sunscreen residues can degrade the fabric and cause fading or stiffness. Rinsing helps remove these chemicals and keeps the fabric fresh.
2. Hand Wash with Gentle Detergent
Avoid machine washing whenever possible. Instead, hand wash your shorts using a gentle detergent formulated for delicate fabrics or swimwear. Fill a basin with cool water and a small amount of detergent, then gently agitate the shorts without scrubbing or wringing. This prevents fibers from stretching or breaking down prematurely.
3. Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Bleach
Harsh chemicals, including bleach and fabric softeners, can damage the elasticity and color of your bathing suit shorts. Always check the care label, and steer clear of bleach or detergents with strong additives. Opt for swimwear-specific or mild soaps to preserve the integrity of the fabric.
4. Dry Properly—Avoid Direct Sunlight
After washing, avoid twisting or wringing your shorts, which can distort their shape. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water and lay them flat to dry. It’s best to dry bathing suit shorts in a shaded area away from direct sunlight since prolonged sun exposure can cause colors to fade and weaken fibers.
5. Skip the Dryer
The high heat from a dryer can damage the elastic fibers in swimwear, leading to stretching and loss of shape. Always air dry your bathing suit shorts. If you need to speed up drying, place them near a fan or in a well-ventilated area but never use heat.
6. Rotate Your Swimwear
If you swim frequently, having multiple pairs of bathing suit shorts to rotate can help reduce wear and tear on any single pair. This practice gives each pair time to recover its shape and elasticity between uses.
7. Store with Care
When not in use, store your bathing suit shorts flat or folded gently. Avoid hanging them by the waistband, as gravity can stretch out the elastic over time. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from rough surfaces to prevent snagging.
8. Avoid Rough Surfaces
Sitting or leaning on rough pool edges, rocks, or concrete can cause fabric pilling, snags, and wear. Using a towel or cover-up before sitting on such surfaces can protect your bathing suit shorts from damage.
Final Thoughts
Proper care is key to keeping your bathing suit shorts looking fresh and feeling comfortable season after season. By rinsing promptly, hand washing gently, avoiding harsh chemicals, drying carefully, and storing thoughtfully, you can prevent fading and stretching and enjoy your favorite swimwear longer. With these simple tips, your bathing suit shorts will stay vibrant and well-fitting, ready for every splash and sunny day ahead.
