How to Wash and Care for Your Swimwear So It Lasts All Summer
Quick answer: rinse swimwear in cool water immediately after every wear, hand wash with a mild detergent, skip the washing machine and dryer, and lay flat to dry out of direct sunlight. This single habit is the biggest factor in how long swimwear keeps its shape and color.
Rinse Immediately After Every Wear
Chlorine, salt, sand, and sunscreen oils all break down swim fabric over time. Rinsing in cool water right after you take your suit off, even before a full wash, removes most of what causes fading and fabric breakdown. This one step matters more than the detergent you use.
How to Hand Wash Swimwear
- Fill a sink or basin with cool water and a small amount of mild detergent.
- Swirl the suit gently for about a minute. Do not scrub or wring.
- Rinse thoroughly in clean, cool water until no soap remains.
- Press out excess water with a towel. Never wring or twist the fabric.
Why the Washing Machine and Dryer Are Off Limits
Washing machines agitate and stretch swim fabric, and the heat from a dryer breaks down the fabric's stretch and recovery over time. Both shorten the life of a suit dramatically, often within just a few cycles, even on gentle settings.
How to Dry Swimwear Properly
Lay the suit flat on a clean, dry towel, away from direct sunlight and heat, which can fade colors and degrade elastic. Flipping the suit halfway through drying helps it dry evenly without stretching.
How to Store Swimwear Between Wears
Make sure the suit is fully dry before folding and storing it. Storing swimwear while damp encourages mildew and can cause colors to bleed, especially with printed fabrics.
For garment-specific instructions, always check the care label first, and see our Bikini Care 101 page for more detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put my bikini in the washing machine? It is not recommended. Machine agitation stretches swim fabric and shortens its lifespan significantly faster than hand washing.
How often should I wash my swimsuit? Rinse it after every single wear, and do a full hand wash with mild detergent every few wears or any time it has been exposed to chlorine, salt water, or sunscreen for an extended period.
Why does my bikini fade so fast? Fading is usually caused by a combination of chlorine exposure, direct sun drying, and machine washing. Rinsing after every wear and air-drying out of direct sunlight slows fading considerably.