How to Clean and Maintain Your Swimwear for Lasting Fit

Your favorite swimsuit works hard every time you wear it—chlorine, saltwater, sunscreen, and sand all take a toll. Without proper care, even the best-made suit can lose its shape, fade, or stretch out faster than it should. Learning how to clean swimwear correctly is one of the simplest ways to protect your investment and keep it looking great season after season.

Whether you’re lounging by the pool or swimming laps, a few good habits can make a big difference. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to wash swimsuits, protect elasticity, and store your suit so it stays ready for your next adventure.

Why Swimwear Needs Special Care

Swimwear is made from delicate fabrics like nylon, spandex, and polyester that are designed to stretch and move with you. But these materials are sensitive to harsh chemicals, heat, and friction. Chlorine and saltwater can break down the fibers over time, while sunscreen and body oils can leave residue that dulls colors and weakens the fabric.

The good news is that with a few simple steps, you can significantly extend the life of your swimsuit. By understanding what damages swimwear, you can avoid common mistakes and keep your suit fitting like new.

• Rinse your suit in cold water immediately after swimming to remove chlorine, salt, and sand.
• Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric—gently press out excess water instead.
• Never use hot water, bleach, or fabric softeners, as they can break down elastic fibers.

How to Wash Swimsuits by Hand

Hand washing is the safest and most effective way to clean swimwear. Fill a sink or basin with cool water and add a small amount of mild detergent—something free of bleach and softeners is best. Submerge your suit and gently swish it around for a few minutes, paying extra attention to areas that touch sunscreen or sweat.

Rinse thoroughly in cool water until no soap remains. Then, lay the suit flat on a clean towel and roll it up to absorb excess moisture. Never wring or twist, as this can distort the shape and damage the fibers. Reshape the suit gently and let it air dry away from direct sunlight.

• Use a detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics or a gentle baby shampoo.
• If you must use a washing machine, place the suit in a mesh laundry bag and use the delicate cycle with cold water.
• Skip the dryer entirely—heat is one of the biggest enemies of swimwear elasticity.

Protecting Elasticity and Shape

The stretch in your swimsuit comes from spandex or elastane, which can degrade when exposed to heat and harsh chemicals. To maintain swimwear elasticity, always rinse your suit in cool water after each wear, even if you didn’t swim in it. This removes sweat and oils that can break down the fibers over time.

When drying, avoid hanging your suit by the straps—this can stretch them out. Instead, lay it flat on a towel or a drying rack. Also, be mindful of hot tubs and saunas; the heat can cause the fabric to lose its snap. If you’re wearing a supportive style like the Scoop Back Wireless Classic Sculpting Bodysuit or a shaping swim piece, proper care is even more important to keep the compression and lift working as intended.

• Rotate between two or more swimsuits to give each one time to recover its shape.
• If you notice pilling, use a fabric shaver gently to keep the surface smooth.
• Store your swimsuit flat or rolled, not folded with sharp creases.

Removing Stains and Odors

Sunscreen, tanning oils, and even sweat can leave stains or odors on swimwear. To treat stains, mix a small amount of gentle detergent with cool water and dab the area with a soft cloth. Avoid rubbing, which can spread the stain or damage the fabric. For stubborn odors, a quick soak in cool water with a little white vinegar (about a quarter cup per liter) can help neutralize them—just be sure to rinse thoroughly afterward.

Always check the care label on your suit for any specific instructions. Some fabrics, like those with metallic threads or special coatings, may require extra care. When in doubt, hand washing is always the safest option.

• Treat stains as soon as possible—the longer they sit, the harder they are to remove.
• Never use chlorine bleach or stain removers with harsh chemicals.
• If you use a vinegar soak, don’t leave the suit in for more than 15 minutes.

Storing Your Swimwear Between Wears

Proper storage is the final step in swimwear care. After your suit is completely dry, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid folding it in a way that creates permanent creases—rolling it loosely or laying it flat in a drawer works best. If you’re packing for a trip, place your suit in a separate compartment or a breathable bag to protect it from rubbing against other items.

For swimwear with built-in shaping or support, like the Mid-Thigh Sculpting Butt Lifting Body Shaper or the High-Rise Classic Shaping Panty, extra care in storage helps preserve the garment’s structure and performance. Taking a few minutes to store your swimwear properly means it will be ready to go when you are.

• Avoid storing damp swimwear in a plastic bag—this encourages mildew and odors.
• Keep your swimsuit away from rough surfaces that could snag the fabric.
• If you have multiple suits, rotate them to even out wear.

With these swimwear care tips, you can keep your suits looking vibrant and fitting perfectly for many seasons. Remember to rinse after every wear, hand wash with gentle detergent, dry flat, and store properly. A little extra attention goes a long way in maintaining swimwear elasticity and extending the life of your favorite pieces. Enjoy your time in the sun and water—your swimsuit will thank you!