How To Care For Your Swimwear
The more you care, the longer you can wear! Swimwear is an extension of your personal style. With warmer weather and salt filled air, you can barely wait to throw on your favorite 'kini that'll last all day long. From the beach to the pool, we're going to help you learn how to properly care for your suits to ensure they maintain their rich colors, perfect fit, and overall life.
Follow The Care Instructions
The care label provided by each brand is your best guide for proper maintenance. Before wearing your new suit, carefully read and follow the care label attached to it!
Rinse After Use
Saltwater, chlorine, and sunscreen can be harsh on swimsuit fabrics, causing fading, stretching, and discoloration. To prevent this from happening, always rinse your swimsuit thoroughly with cold water immediately after use as this helps remove any residue.
Hand Wash
While it may sound like a lot more work, hand washing is actually the preferred method for cleaning swimwear. To start, you'll want to fill in a basin or sink with cool water and add a mild detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics. Gently submerge the suit(s), then rinse with cool water until no soap remains.
Machine Washing Precautions
If the care instructions allow machine washing, follow these steps to minimize potential damage:
- Use a mesh laundry bag to protect the swimsuit from tangling with other garments.
- Select a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent suitable for delicate fabrics.
- Avoid using bleach (and never use it on white suits!) or fabric softeners, as they can break down the fabric and elasticity.
- Once the washing cycle is complete, promptly remove the suit so it doesn't sit in the machine for long.
Drying
Proper drying is the most *crucial* part of swimsuit care. It can be tempting to wring or twist the fabric, but please try and avoid this as it can lead to stretching and deformation.
Instead, gently press the suit to remove excess water and lay it flat on a clean towel or hang it in a shaded area away from direct sunlight. Additionally, avoid using a dryer, as the high heat can cause unwanted shrinkage.
Extra Tips
- Think twice before you sit or lay! Try to avoid sitting on rough surfaces while wearing your swimwear to prevent snags or tears.
- Apply sunscreen before putting on your swimwear and let it sit for 3-5 minutes to minimize direct contact between chemicals and the fabric.
Ok, that was A LOT, but, we want you to love your suits as much as we do and caring for them is the first step. If you have any questions on care during your visit to one of our stores, please ask one of our bikini experts!