How To Wash And Care For Swimwear

Swimsuit season is upon us, and whether you're a beach bum or a poolside lounging enthusiast, a well-fitting and comfortable swimsuit or bikini is essential for enjoying your time in the water. 

However, swimsuits can be quite an investment especially if you choose a more sustainable or designer brand, so it's important to know how to properly care for them to ensure their longevity. In this guide, we'll provide you with a straightforward and easy-to-follow approach to how to wash swimsuits, preserve their fabric and elasticity, and maintain their quality.

Why Hand Washing is the Best Method

Hand washing a designer swimsuit is the best method for preserving its fabric and elasticity, as well as preventing damage from harsh washing machines. It may take a bit more time and effort than machine washing, but it's definitely worth it in the long run.

While it may be tempting to just toss your swimsuit in the washing machine with the rest of your laundry, doing so can actually cause more harm than good. The delicate fabric and elasticity of swimsuits can be damaged by the harsh agitation of washing machines, leading to fading, stretching, and a general decrease in their lifespan.

Swimsuits are typically made of a combination of materials, including spandex, nylon, polyester and Lycra. These materials provide the necessary stretch and support for swimwear to fit comfortably on the body while also being able to withstand exposure to chlorine or saltwater. However, the same properties that make swimsuits ideal for swimming can also make them vulnerable to damage when exposed to harsh detergents or machine washing.

By understanding what swimsuits are made of and how they need to be cared for, you can ensure that your favourite swimwear lasts longer and continues looking great season after season.

How To Hand Wash Swimwear Your Swimsuit

Now that you know why handwashing is the preferred method for cleaning swimsuits let's dive into the step-by-step process.

1. Fill a sink with cold water and mild detergent

First, fill a clean sink with cold water. Cold water is ideal for maintaining the colour and shape of your swimsuit. Add a small amount of mild detergent, about a teaspoon, and mix it into the water. It's important to use a gentle detergent that won't harm the fabric, and avoid using anything with bleach or harsh chemicals.

2. Submerge and gently massage the swimsuit

Next, put your swimsuit in the soapy water and gently massage it with your hands. Be sure to focus on any areas that may have come into contact with sunscreen, as this can cause discolouration if not properly removed. It's also a good idea to turn your swimsuit inside out before washing to ensure that both the inside and outside are thoroughly cleaned.

3. Rinse thoroughly with cold water

Once you've finished massaging your swimsuit, drain the soapy water from the sink or basin and rinse the swimsuit under cold running water. This will help remove any remaining detergent and dirt from the fabric. It's essential to rinse thoroughly, as any leftover detergent can damage the swimsuit over time.

4. Remove excess water without wringing or twisting

After rinsing, it's time to remove the excess water from your swimsuit. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric, as this can damage its elasticity and cause it to lose its shape. Instead, gently press the swimsuit against the side of the sink or basin to remove excess water, or lay the swimsuit flat on a clean towel and roll it up, pressing down gently to absorb the water.

5. Lay flat to dry, away from direct sunlight

Finally, lay your swimsuit flat on a clean, dry towel or drying rack to air dry. Be sure to position it away from direct sunlight, to avoid fading and damage to the fabric. Resist the temptation to use a dryer or hang your swimsuit up to dry, as both of these methods can cause stretching and damage to the fabric over time.

How To Maintain Designer Swimsuits

Maintaining the quality of a designer swimsuit is crucial to extending its lifespan. While proper washing techniques are essential, there are a few other tips that can help keep your swimsuit in excellent condition.

One of the most important things you can do is rinse your swimsuit immediately after use. Chlorine, salt, and other chemicals found in pools or salt water can be particularly damaging to swimwear fabric and cause premature wear and tear. Rinsing with cold water immediately after swimmingprevents harmful substances from setting into the suit's fibres. 

Another useful tip for frequent swimmers is rotating between multiple bikinis or swimsuits. This allows each piece ample recovery time between use and helps maintain shape and elasticity over an extended period of time. This way, one suit doesn't get worn out too quickly due to constant usage.

Lastly, remember that storing swimsuits flat (such as in a drawer) away from direct sunlight prevents fading while protecting against possible fabric damage caused by light exposure - especially if left outside under extreme conditions!

Final Words

By following the handwashing steps outlined in this guide and implementing the additional tips for maintaining your swimsuit's quality, you'll be able to enjoy your favourite swimwear season after season. 

Remember, a little extra care goes a long way when it comes to preserving the look and feel of your swimsuit.