Swimwear is a must-have piece of clothing, particularly in the summer or for people who frequently visit the beach.
Swimwear is subjected to severe conditions which can cause wear and tear. You should follow a few important care guidelines to prolong the life of your best swim wear for women and keep it in excellent condition.
With the help of this blog post, you can keep your swimsuits looking brand new for as long as possible.
1. Rinse Immediately After Wearing
One of the most important steps to take after wearing your swimsuit is to rinse it immediately. Chlorine from pools, salt from the ocean, sunscreen, and even body oils can break down the fabric of your swimsuit over time. Rinsing your swimsuit with cool, fresh water as soon as possible after swimming helps remove these harmful substances before they can cause damage.
Avoid hot water, as it can weaken the elasticity of the fabric. A simple rinse in a shower or sink will help prevent the buildup of chemicals and salt that can degrade the material.
2. Hand Wash Gently
While it might be tempting to throw your swimsuit in the washing machine, this can cause unnecessary wear and tear. The agitation in washing machines, even on gentle cycles, can stretch the fabric, leading to loss of elasticity and shape.
Instead, it’s best to hand wash your swimwear using cool or lukewarm water. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to hand wash your swimsuit:
- Fill a basin or sink with cool water.
- Add a small amount of mild detergent or a soap specifically designed for delicate fabrics.
- Submerge your swimsuit and gently swirl it around. Be careful not to wring or stretch the fabric.
- Let the swimsuit soak for about 10-15 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with cool water until all the soap is removed.
3. Use Mild Detergent
Not all detergents are created equal, and using harsh, regular laundry detergents can damage the delicate fibers in your swimwear. These detergents can be too strong for the synthetic fabrics and can break down the material, causing fading or weakening the suit’s elasticity.
Instead, use a mild detergent or one specially formulated for delicate fabrics. You can also find detergents specifically designed for swimwear, which are gentle and help preserve the fabric’s quality. Avoid fabric softeners and bleach, as they can damage the swimsuit’s fibers and cause colors to fade quickly.
4. Avoid Machine Drying and Wrapping in Towels
Machine drying your swimsuit is a big no-no. The heat from the dryer can destroy the elasticity and shape of the fabric. Instead, after rinsing or hand washing, lay your swimsuit flat on a clean towel, then roll it up gently to remove excess water. Avoid twisting or wringing out the swimsuit, as this can cause it to lose its shape.
To dry your swimsuit properly, lay it flat on a clean surface in the shade. Avoid direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure to the sun can cause the colors to fade and the fabric to deteriorate more quickly.
5. Rotate Your Swimsuits
If you’re someone who swims frequently, it’s a good idea to have multiple swimsuits and rotate them. Swimsuit fabrics need time to regain their shape and elasticity after wearing, and if you wear the same suit every day, it will wear out more quickly. Having two or three swimsuits in rotation ensures each one gets a break, extending its overall lifespan.
6. Avoid Rough Surfaces
When you’re by the pool or at the beach, be mindful of where you sit or lay down. Rough surfaces like concrete, wooden benches, or rocks can cause snags, tears, or pilling in the delicate fabric of your swimsuit. To prevent damage, lay down a towel or use a beach chair before sitting on hard or abrasive surfaces.
7. Be Mindful of Sun Exposure
Sun exposure is a common cause of fading in swimwear. UV rays can break down the fibers in the fabric, causing colors to lose their vibrancy. To minimize the impact of the sun, avoid laying your swimsuit out in direct sunlight to dry. Instead, dry it in the shade or indoors. Additionally, when you’re sunbathing, consider using a towel to cover areas that aren’t being tanned.
If you plan on being in the sun for an extended period, you can also opt for swimsuits with built-in UV protection, which help shield the fabric from harmful rays.
8. Store Properly
Proper storage is key to maintaining your swimsuit’s shape and elasticity. After your swimsuit is completely dry, store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid keeping it in a damp environment, like a wet beach bag or enclosed bathroom, as this can promote mold and mildew growth.
When storing your swimwear, avoid folding it in ways that could create creases or distort the shape. Hanging your swimsuits by the straps can also cause stretching, so it’s best to lay them flat in a drawer or on a shelf.
9. Protect Your Swimwear from Sunscreen and Oils
While sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, it can be harmful to your swimwear. Sunscreen, oils, and lotions can stain your swimsuit or break down the fabric over time. To minimize this effect, apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before putting on your swimsuit. This allows the sunscreen to absorb into your skin and reduces the likelihood of it transferring onto the fabric.
If your swimsuit does come into contact with sunscreen or oils, rinse it immediately with cool water to prevent staining and deterioration.
10. Recognize When It’s Time to Replace Your Swimwear
Even with the best care, swimsuits won’t last forever. Over time, the fabric will naturally lose its elasticity, the colors may fade, and the material may become thinner. It’s important to recognize when it’s time to retire your favorite swimsuit and invest in a new one.
If your swimsuit has lost its stretch, the fabric feels worn or threadbare, or the colors are noticeably faded, it may be time to replace it. Continuing to wear a worn-out swimsuit can lead to discomfort and make it more prone to damage.
Final Thoughts
Carefully maintaining your swimwear may considerably extend its life, saving you money and ensuring you always look your best at the beach or pool. So, follow these suggestions, take good care of your swimsuit, and enjoy your time in the sun and water without worrying about wear and tear!
