Chlorine, saltwater and sunlight can be harsh on your swimwear and make it wear out sooner than you would like. Luckily, there are ways to take care of swimwear that will make it last much, much longer.
1. Rinse as soon as possible
If it isn’t rinsed properly after a swim, the chlorine or saltwater can bleach your swimsuit, resulting in the colour fading after only a few wears. Sunscreen is another thing to look out for, because it can leave oil stains. After a day at the beach or pool, rinse your swimming costume with tap water, gently wring out the water and then place it in a plastic packet in your bag before washing it properly at home.
2. Handwashing is best
Swimming briefs and swimming costumes often have trims, prints and embellishments that can get damaged. Increase its longevity by handwashing in lukewarm water. Gently wring it after a wash.
Swimsuit handwashing don’ts
- Don’t wring your swimwear too tightly after a wash. This will stretch it and can break the fibres.
- Don’t soak overnight. This can loosen the fibres.
- Don’t dry in direct sunlight – the sun will fade the colours.
- Don’t put it in the tumble dryer after handwashing. The heat causes the fibres in the fabric to become rough and bumpy.
3. Sit on a towel
Sitting poolside or on rocks can pull the fabric of swimming costumes and speedos. A harsh surface can even snag and tear spandex. Sitting on a towel, wrapping yourself in a sarong or wearing swimming shorts will protect your swimsuit.
4. Don’t overwear it
Wearing the same swimming costume every day of your five-day family beach trip may sound economical, but it will actually result in it wearing out at a rapid pace! Swimsuits need at least 24 hours to dry and revert back to their natural form. Consider having a spare one on hand if you are going to be swimming frequently.
5. Avoid sharing swimming costumes
Be sure to let your children know not to share their swimming costumes with their friends. Bacteria can easily be passed on through swimsuits, especially when wet. Have a strict no-sharing rule.
By looking after your swimwear properly, you can save yourself the stress and expense of having to buy a new suit sooner than you would like to.
Love this post on how to take care of swimwear? Then take a look at how to get the stains out of clothing.
Sources: olympichottub.com; bhg.com, theluxuryspot.com; proswimwear.co.uk