Swimwear takes a beating every summer — chlorine, saltwater, sunscreen, and sand all work against the stretch and color of your favorite suit. Knowing how to wash swimwear the right way is the difference between a suit that lasts one season and one that lasts five.
Rinse Immediately After Wearing
The single most important step in how to wash swimwear properly is rinsing it in cool water right after you take it off. Chlorine and salt left sitting in the fabric break down the elastic fibers fast, which is why so many suits lose their shape after just a few wears. A quick rinse in the sink or shower, before the suit ever dries out, makes every other care step more effective.
Hand-Wash, Don't Machine Wash
Whenever possible, hand-wash swimwear in cold water with a gentle, fragrance-free detergent. Swirl the suit gently for about 30 seconds, focusing on areas that touched sunscreen or lotion, then rinse thoroughly. Machine washing — even on a delicate cycle — puts unnecessary stress on seams, linings, and any embellishments, and the agitator can snag delicate fabric.
Skip the Dryer Completely
Heat is the enemy of spandex and elastane, the stretch fibers in almost every swimsuit. Never put swimwear in the dryer. Instead, lay the suit flat on a clean, dry towel, away from direct sunlight, and let it air dry. Direct sun can fade color quickly, so a shaded spot indoors or on a covered porch is ideal.
Rotate Between Suits
If you're at the beach or pool multiple days in a row, rotating between two suits gives the elastic fibers time to fully recover between wears. Constant wear without a full dry-out cycle is one of the fastest ways to stretch out a suit permanently.
Store It Properly
Once completely dry, store swimwear flat or loosely folded rather than balled up, and keep it away from rough fabrics that can snag delicate knits. A dedicated drawer or breathable bag keeps suits in rotation without damage between trips.
Shop the Collection
Looking to refresh your rotation before your next trip? Browse our full swimwear collection for new arrivals in one-pieces, bikinis, and cover-ups, all designed to hold up to real vacation wear when you follow these simple care steps.
