How to Care for Your Swimwear: Washing, Drying, and Storage Tips

Quick answer

To keep your swimwear looking its best, always rinse it in cold water after each wear, hand wash with a gentle detergent, and dry it flat in the shade. Avoid wringing, machine washing, and direct sunlight to prevent stretching, fading, and fabric damage.

Swimwear is an investment in warm-weather fun, but chlorine, salt, sunscreen, and sand can take a toll on delicate fabrics and elastics. With the right care, your favorite bikini or one-piece can keep its shape and color for many seasons.

The good news: you don’t need special products or complicated routines. A few consistent habits—like rinsing promptly and drying flat—make all the difference. Here’s a straightforward guide to washing, drying, and storing your swimwear so it stays ready for every beach day.

Why Swimwear Needs Special Care

Swimwear fabrics are often made from nylon, spandex, or polyester blends that are lightweight and stretchy but also sensitive to heat, harsh chemicals, and rough handling. Chlorine and salt can break down fibers, while sunscreen and oils can cause discoloration. Even the elastic in straps and leg openings can weaken if not rinsed properly.

Understanding these vulnerabilities helps you avoid common mistakes like tossing your suit in the washing machine or leaving it balled up in a damp towel. By treating your swimwear gently, you protect both its appearance and its fit.

• Always check the care label for specific instructions, but most swimwear benefits from hand washing.
• Have two or three suits in rotation so each one has time to rest between wears—this reduces stress on the elastic.

How to Wash Swimwear by Hand

Hand washing is the safest and most effective way to clean swimwear. Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent—preferably one that’s free of bleach, fabric softeners, and optical brighteners. Swish the suit gently for a few minutes, paying attention to areas that touch sunscreen or sweat.

Rinse thoroughly in fresh water until no suds remain. If you’ve been in a heavily chlorinated pool or the ocean, an extra rinse helps remove chemical residue. Avoid scrubbing or twisting the fabric, as this can distort its shape.

• Use a dedicated swimwear cleanser or a gentle baby shampoo if you don’t have a specialty detergent.
• Never use hot water—it can break down elastane and cause fading.

How to Dry Swimwear Properly

Drying is where many swimsuits get damaged. The heat from a dryer or direct sunlight can cause fabrics to fade, lose elasticity, and even become brittle. Instead, gently press out excess water with a clean towel—don’t wring or twist—and then lay the suit flat on a dry towel in a shaded, well-ventilated area.

Hanging a wet swimsuit by its straps can stretch them out over time. If you must hang it, drape it over a clothesline or hanger so the weight is distributed evenly. Avoid drying on radiators, near heaters, or in direct sun.

• Turn the suit inside out while drying to protect the outer color.
• Pat the fabric with a towel to remove water, then reshape gently before laying flat.

How to Store Swimwear Between Wears

Once your swimwear is completely dry, store it flat in a drawer or on a shelf. Folding is fine, but avoid sharp creases that can stress the fabric over time. If you have multiple suits, place tissue paper between them to prevent colors from transferring, especially if one is dark and another is light.

Keep swimwear away from Velcro, hooks, or rough surfaces that can snag delicate knits and lace. For travel, use a separate pouch or wrap your suit in a soft cloth to protect it from other items in your bag.

• Don’t store damp swimwear—this encourages mildew and odor.
• If you’re packing for a trip, roll your swimsuit instead of folding to reduce creases.

When to Replace Your Swimwear

Even with excellent care, swimwear has a lifespan. If you notice that the fabric has become sheer, lost its snap, or no longer fits securely, it’s time to shop for a new piece. Sun, chlorine, and regular wear all contribute to gradual breakdown—there’s no way to stop it entirely.

Keeping a few well-made suits in rotation and following the care steps above will help you get the most wears out of each one. When you do replace, look for quality construction and fabrics that are designed to withstand your favorite water activities.

• Check the elastic in straps and leg openings regularly for signs of stretching.
• Rotate between at least two or three suits to reduce wear on any single piece.

Step-by-Step Swimwear Care Routine

1. Rinse immediately after wearing: After swimming, rinse your suit in cool fresh water to remove chlorine, salt, sand, and sunscreen. Do this before the suit dries, as residue becomes harder to remove later. Checkpoint: Water runs clear—no visible suds or discoloration.
2. Hand wash with mild detergent: Fill a basin with cool water and a small amount of gentle detergent. Submerge the suit and gently swirl for 2-3 minutes. Pay extra attention to areas that touched sunscreen or sweat. Avoid scrubbing or wringing—this can stretch fibers and distort the fit.
3. Rinse thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and refill with clean cool water. Swish the suit again until no soap remains. Repeat if necessary, especially after ocean or pool use. Residual detergent can irritate skin and attract dirt, so rinse well.
4. Press out excess water: Lay the suit on a clean, dry towel and roll it up gently. Press to absorb moisture. Never twist or wring the fabric. The towel should catch most of the water—the suit should feel damp, not dripping.
5. Dry flat in the shade: Place the suit flat on a dry towel in a shaded, airy spot. Reshape it to its original form. Avoid clothespins, hangers, and direct sunlight. Checkpoint: The suit is completely dry before storing—no damp spots remain.
6. Store flat and dry: Fold the suit neatly and store it in a drawer or on a shelf. Keep it away from Velcro, hooks, or rough fabrics. For travel, use a separate pouch. Never store damp swimwear—this promotes mildew and odor.

Swimwear Pieces That Deserve Care

• Coco Knit Tank — Baby Blue: This halter top spotlights a sweet gathered neckline, dainty lettuce edge trim, center front bow appliqué, and an alluring open back. Delicate trims and open-back designs require gentle hand washing and flat drying to maintain their shape and prevent snags.
• Cottage Roses Underwire Bra — Blue: This embroidered lingerie bra is adorned with pink cottage roses, white lace accents, and dotted mesh detailing throughout. Lace and embroidery are fragile; hand washing and air drying help preserve the intricate details and prevent tearing.

Caring for your swimwear doesn’t have to be time-consuming. By rinsing, hand washing, and drying flat, you’ll keep colors bright and fabrics supportive. These small steps extend the life of your favorite suits, so you can enjoy more sunny days without worrying about wear and tear.