How to Take Care of Your Swimwear/ Activewear
Whether it's your go-to bikini for beach days or that one-piece that makes you feel like a Beach Babe, swimwear deserves proper care to keep it looking and feeling great. Unlike everyday clothing, swimsuits are made with delicate fabrics that face a lot of wear and tear—from chlorine and saltwater to suncream and sand. If you want your favourite swimsuit to survive more than one summer, here’s how to look after it the right way.
1. Rinse As Soon As You Can
One of the best things you can do for your swimwear? Rinse it straight after swimming. Chlorine, saltwater, and even sunscreen can break down the elasticity and fade colours over time. If you can’t fully wash it right away, at least give it a good rinse under cold running water to remove any residue.
2. Hand Wash Only – Gently Does It
Skip the washing machine. It may be convenient, but it’s too rough on swimwear fabric and can seriously shorten its lifespan.
Here’s how to hand wash properly:
Fill a basin or sink with cool water (not hot).
Use a gentle detergent—ideally one made for delicates or even just a tiny bit of baby shampoo.
Gently swirl the swimsuit in the water, lightly working the soap through the fabric.
Avoid scrubbing, twisting, or wringing. Let the water do the work.
3. Rinse Again
After washing, rinse thoroughly in cool water to remove all soap. Leftover detergent can be just as damaging to swimwear as chlorine or salt.
4. Dry Flat – No Wringing, No Radiators
Once clean, gently press out excess water using a clean towel. Avoid wringing it out like you’re trying to twist rope—that kind of stress on the fabric and elastic can lead to sagging and stretching.
To dry:
Lay your swimsuit flat on a towel, ideally in a shaded spot away from direct sunlight.
Avoid tumble dryers, radiators, or heated drying racks—heat can damage the elastic and fade colours.
Never hang swimwear from the straps—they can stretch out quickly.
5. Rotate Your Swimwear
If you're lucky enough to be swimming daily (hello, holiday vibes or regular pool sessions), try to alternate between two or more swimsuits. Lycra and elastane need time to return to their original shape, so giving your suit a break will help preserve its fit.
6. Watch Where You Sit
Rough surfaces like pool edges, concrete, or rocks can snag delicate swim fabric. If you're lounging by the pool or sitting on a wall, pop down a towel first—it’s a small habit that can save your swimsuit from pulls and pills.
Tip: Treat It Like a Delicate, Not Gym Gear
Your swimwear goes through a lot: sun, salt, chlorine, stretching, and movement. Treating it gently will not only help it last longer but keep it looking (and feeling) as good as new.
Take a few extra minutes to rinse and hand wash, and your swimwear will thank you.