How To Wash Bathing Suits: Save Your Suit For Next Summer
Image Credit:Vitamin A
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Quality swimwear isn’t just designed to look cute (though that’s certainly part of it). It should also be able to withstand sand, sun, and waves for seasons to come—and with the right care, it will.
Trends come and go with the seasons, but your swimwear doesn’t have to. With a few high-quality and sustainable pieces, you won’t have to bid farewell to your favorite bikinis once the weather cools down.
Knowing what fabrics to shop for and how to wash bathing suits can go a long way to preserve your swimwear’s integrity. And with these swimsuit-saving strategies in your back pocket, you can fully embrace all the sand and chlorine your summer plans have in store.
How to Hand Wash Bathing Suits
Hand-washing is the best way to protect your swimsuits from stretching, fading, or pilling. If you don’t already know how to hand wash bathing suits, fear not; it’s quick, easy, and painless.
Simply place your swimsuit in a tub of cool water—your sink or bathtub will work just fine—and add one tablespoon of mild laundry detergent. Let your suit soak for about 30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cold water until all the suds are out.
For the best results, wash or rinse your swimsuits as soon as possible after wear. If your swimsuit sits with chlorine or salt for too long, it can damage the fabric.
Avoid the Dryer
Since swimsuits are so delicate, you’ll want to skip the dryer. Instead, absorb any excess moisture with a clean towel, then lay your swimsuit flat across a towel or drying rack. Hanging it over a doorknob or faucet can cause it to become misshapen, as will wringing it out too aggressively.Bonus Tips
Avoid drying your bathing suit in direct sunlight, as this can cause the fabric to fade. It’s also good practice to rinse your swimsuit each time you wear it, so you might want to keep it on for the first few minutes of your post-pool shower.
How to Wash Bathing Suits in Washing Machines
Some swimsuits are machine washable, but it’s always a good idea to check the label for specific care instructions. In general, you’ll want to wash your swimsuit the same way you would your delicates—a gentle cycle, in cold water, with mild detergent, and tucked inside a garment bag.
Though washing machines are sometimes allowed, it’s still best to refrain from using the dryer. Your swimsuit will dry best if you lay it flat over a towel or drying rack.
Pro-Tip: Shop Swimsuits That Last Longer
The best way to keep your swimwear looking fresh season after season is to shop from brands that keep longevity top of mind.
The good news? With sustainability on the rise, many brands are now prioritizing durability in their swim lines.
Here are a few of my personal faves.
Poolproof Swimwear - Canggu Cross Over One Piece
Image Credit:Swimwear Galore
Image Credit:Swimwear Galore
This funky asymmetrical one-piece is designed to withstand the chlorine and high temperatures of pools and hot tubs, making it the perfect pick for a pool day—today, tomorrow, and for years to come.
The Canggu also offers tummy support, fixed soft cups, a shelf bra, a side tie, and wide shoulder straps—so you’ll feel secure and supported no matter how much diving or cannon-balling your day has in store.
Left on Friday - Betty Suit
Image Credit:Left on Friday
Image Credit:Left on Friday
This one-of-a-kind one-piece features a high-cut leg and thong back to create a slim and streamlined silhouette. Plus, you can count on all of Left on Friday’s swimsuits to withstand the test of time—and the test of salt, sun, and chlorine—thanks to their Smoothing Dream Fabric.
The innovative material offers smoothing coverage and holds up to the sun’s rays without fading. It can even withstand the hot tub. It’s also snag-resistant, meaning you can plop down on the pool deck stress-free.
Land’s End - Chlorine Resistant Halter Tankini Top and High Leg High Waisted Bottoms
Image Credit:Lands' End
Image Credit:Lands' End
This stylish and sporty tankini top is great for paddleboarding, swimming, surfing, or any other water activity your heart desires thanks to its supportive fabric and stay-put coverage. It’s perfect for those who want a little more coverage and versatility in their swimwear options. It’s also made with chlorine-resistant spandex, meaning it’ll keep its shape, withstand damage, and keep shining bright year after year.
Featuring UPF 50+ sun protection and all-around stretch, it’s one of the best bikinis for beachgoers wanting to get active—and look good doing it.
Vitamin A - Cassia Crop Top and Barcelona High Waist Bottom
Image Credit:Vitamin A
Image Credit:Vitamin A
Vitamin A prioritizes sustainability in their swimwear, which means all of their pieces are built to last. Case in point: This two-piece is made from recycled nylon yarns, but it’s so chic that you’d never guess it’s built for performance and longevity, too.
The Cassia is a bralette-crop top hybrid, suitable for both the beach and the bar (or the beach bar, for that matter). The front tie is adjustable, guaranteeing the perfect fit no matter your bust size, and the metallic knit creates a subtle shimmer for an iridescent, sun-kissed look.
With Proper Care, Your Swimwear Will Last a Lifetime (or At Least a Lot More Summers)
Fast fashion has trained us to believe that we need to hit the mall every summer for our new bikini roster. Luckily, this doesn’t need to be the case. High-quality, durable, and sustainable swimwear is now in vogue, which means the suits you buy today can last years.
The one caveat is that you have to take care of them—which is far less daunting than you might expect. With a little routine TLC and a few trusty tips, your swimwear will retain its shape and color for summers to come.
So, as you prepare to surf, sunbathe, and swim this summer, don’t forget to give your swimwear the care it deserves to help it survive the season.