How to Wash Swimwear: Keep Your Bathing Suits in Top Shape

Whether you're hitting the beach, pool, or relaxing in a hot tub, knowing how to wash swimwear properly will help extend the life of your favourite bathing suit. Swimsuits are made from delicate fabrics like Lycra and spandex, which are sensitive to chlorine, salt water, body oils, sunscreen, and harsh chemicals.

Without proper care, your swimsuit can fade, lose elasticity, or develop odours.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to wash your swimsuit, prevent damage, and keep it feeling like new—season after season. TABLE OF CONTENTS

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Rinse Immediately After Swimming

After every wear, give your swimsuit a good rinse using cool water or fresh water. This step removes chlorine, salt, sand, and chemicals before they set into the delicate fabric.

Quick tip: A swimsuit rinse in the shower right after swimming makes a big difference in preventing wear and tear.

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Hand Wash with Gentle Detergent

Skip the washing machine—the best method is to hand wash your bathing suit using a gentle detergent or mild detergent in cold water or lukewarm water. Fill a sink or basin, add a few drops of detergent, and let your suit soak for 10–15 minutes.

Avoid regular laundry detergent as it’s too harsh for swimwear fabrics. Never use chlorine bleach, even on chlorine resistant suits.

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Gently Squeeze Excess Water

After washing, never wring out your wet swimsuit. Instead, gently squeeze the excess water using a dry towel. Lay the suit flat, roll it up in the towel, and press lightly. This helps preserve elasticity and shape.

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Dry Flat in a Well Ventilated Area

Always air dry your bathing suit by laying it on a flat surface in a well ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colours and weaken fibres. Never use a dryer—high temperatures are too harsh for delicate fabric.

Make sure your suit is completely dry before folding or storing to avoid mildew growth and odours.

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Use Baking Soda to Remove Stains and Odours

To treat stubborn stains or odours from sunscreen, sweat, or body oils, mix half a cup of baking soda with water and soak the swimsuit for 15–30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with cool water afterwards.

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Turn Your Swimsuit Inside Out

To reduce fading and protect your suit's surface, always wash swimsuits inside out. This allows the inner layer—where most oils and chemicals accumulate—to get properly cleaned.

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Avoid the Washing Machine When Possible

Even on the delicate cycle, machine washing can damage stitching and wear down delicate material. If you absolutely must use a washing machine, place your bathing suit in a mesh laundry bag and wash on a cold water setting with a mild detergent.

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Avoid Sitting on Abrasive Surfaces

Concrete, pool edges, and wooden benches can snag and damage the fabric of your suit. Always place a towel under you to help prevent snags and preserve the fabric's integrity.

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Quick Do’s and Don’ts for Swimwear Care

DO:

• Hand wash immediately after use
• Use cool or cold water
• Choose a gentle detergent
• Gently squeeze moisture—never wring
• Air dry on a flat surface
• Store only when completely dry

DON’T:

• Use bleach or softeners
• Dry in the sun or dryer
• Wash in hot water
• Rub with an old toothbrush (too abrasive)
• Leave wet swimsuits balled up in bags

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Final Thoughts: Properly Wash Your Swimsuit for Long-Term Wear

Your bathing suit goes through a lot—sun, sand, chlorine, salt water, and frequent wear. With the right care routine, you can protect your investment and enjoy your swimsuit for many summers to come.

From the first rinse to the final air dry, every step matters. Gentle handling, the right detergent, and avoiding extreme temperatures all help keep your swimwear looking and fitting its best.

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