How to Keep Your Swimwear in Top Condition

Summer is the season for swimwear, but frequent use in pools, oceans, and sunbathing can take a toll on your favorite suits. To keep your swimwear looking great and lasting longer, proper care is essential. Here are some best practices for cleaning and maintaining your swimwear, ensuring it stays vibrant and in excellent condition all season long.

General Swimwear Care Tips

• Apply Sunscreen Carefully: Before putting on your swimsuit, apply sunscreen and let it dry completely. When reapplying while wearing your suit, be cautious around the fabric to avoid stains.
• Avoid Rough Surfaces: Sitting on rough surfaces like concrete or wooden benches can snag or break the spandex fibers of your suit. Use a towel to sit on to protect your swimwear.
• Rinse Immediately: After swimming, if you can't wash your suit right away, rinse it with cold water to remove chlorine or saltwater. This helps maintain the color and elasticity of the fabric.
• Proper Storage: If your suit is wet, place it in a mesh or wet bag to allow it to air out and dry. This reduces the risk of mildew forming.

How to Wash Your Swimsuit

1. Gentle Cleaning: Rinsing in cold water won't remove all chlorine or salt. Fill a sink with cool water and add a teaspoon of gentle liquid laundry detergent. Swish the suit in the soapy water for a few minutes, then turn it inside out and repeat. Then you can rinse the suit until the water runs clear and no soap residue remains.
2. Avoid Machine Washing and Drying: Machine washing and drying can be harsh on swimwear fabric and elastic. If you must use a washing machine, place the swimsuit in a mesh laundry bag and use a delicate cycle with cold water. Never use the dryer; instead, lay the swimsuit flat to dry.
3. Avoid Wringing Out Water: Instead of wringing out excess water, which can damage the fabric and elastic, gently squeeze the water out or press the swimwear between two towels to absorb the moisture.
4. Flat Drying: Lay your swimwear flat to dry on a towel in a shaded area or on a flat drying rack. Avoid hanging, as it can stretch the elastic fibers. Make sure the suit is completely dry before storing it flat to prevent mildew.

Removing Stains and Residue

Expert Help: Successfully removing stains depends on the type and severity of the stain and the fabric. Always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area first. If in doubt, consult the professionals at A Cleaner World.

• Sunscreen and Sweat Stains: Sunscreen and sweat can leave oily stains on swimwear. To remove these, create a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. Soak the stained area for about 30 minutes before hand washing with mild detergent.
• Chlorine and Salt Residue: Chlorine and salt can degrade the fabric and elastic of your swimwear. After rinsing, soak the swimsuit in a mixture of cold water and a teaspoon of baking soda for 15-30 minutes. This helps neutralize the chlorine and salt, keeping your swimwear fresh.

Taking a little extra time to care for your swimwear will ensure it stays looking great for many seasons. If handwashing feels like a hassle, you can always drop off your swimwear at your nearest A Cleaner World location. We specialize in giving your clothes the TLC they need to stay in top shape!