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

Quick Answer

Always rinse your swimwear in cold fresh water immediately after swimming, hand wash with a mild detergent, and dry flat in the shade. Avoid wringing, machine drying, and prolonged sun exposure to prevent chlorine and salt water damage.

Your favorite swimsuit works hard all summer, but chlorine and salt water can take a toll. Without proper care, elastic stretches out, colors fade, and fabric breaks down. The good news: a few simple habits can keep your swimwear looking and fitting great for many seasons.

This guide walks you through the best way to wash, dry, and store swimwear, with practical tips to prevent common damage. Follow these steps and your suits will stay vibrant and supportive.

Why Chlorine and Salt Water Damage Swimwear

Chlorine is a strong chemical that breaks down the elastic fibers in swimwear, causing them to lose stretch and become baggy. Salt water, on the other hand, can dry out fabric and leave abrasive crystals that weaken fibers over time. Both can fade colors and degrade the fabric's texture.

Understanding this helps you act quickly. The longer chlorine or salt water sits on the fabric, the more damage it does. That's why immediate rinsing is your first line of defense.

• Rinse swimwear in cold fresh water as soon as you leave the pool or beach.
• Never let a wet suit sit in a bag for hours—this accelerates damage.

How to Wash Swimwear the Right Way

Hand washing is always gentler than machine washing. Fill a basin with cold water and add a small amount of mild detergent—one made for delicates or baby clothes works well. Soak the suit for a few minutes, then gently squeeze (don't scrub) the fabric to release dirt and oils.

If you must use a washing machine, place the swimsuit in a mesh lingerie bag and select the delicate cycle with cold water. Skip fabric softeners and bleach, as they can damage the elastic and color. After washing, rinse thoroughly to remove all detergent residue.

• Use a detergent free of chlorine and bleach.
• Never wring or twist the fabric—press gently to remove excess water.

Drying Swimwear: Flat and in the Shade

The way you dry swimwear matters as much as washing. Direct sunlight can fade colors and weaken fibers, while heat from dryers can melt or distort the elastic. The best method is to lay the suit flat on a clean, dry towel in a shaded, well-ventilated area.

Avoid hanging swimwear by the straps, as the weight of wet fabric can stretch them out. If you're in a hurry, roll the suit in a towel and press to absorb moisture, then lay it flat to finish drying. Never use a tumble dryer.

• Dry flat on a towel, not on a hanger.
• Keep the suit out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.

Storing Swimwear Between Uses

Once your swimsuit is completely dry, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Folding is better than hanging, as hanging can stretch the fabric over time. If you have multiple suits, avoid stacking heavy items on top of them.

For long-term storage, consider placing swimwear in a breathable cotton bag or drawer with silica gel packets to absorb moisture. Avoid plastic bags, which can trap humidity and encourage mildew.

• Fold, don't hang, to preserve shape.
• Store in a drawer or breathable container—never in a damp bathroom.

Diagnosing Common Swimwear Problems

• Faded colors: Cause: Chlorine or sun exposure breaking down dyes. Corrective action: Rinse immediately after swimming and dry in shade. If fading persists, consider using a color-protecting detergent. If colors fade after just a few wears, your suit may be low-quality—consider a higher-quality option.
• Stretched elastic: Cause: Prolonged chlorine exposure or machine drying. Corrective action: Hand wash, dry flat, and avoid heat. If the suit no longer fits snugly, it's time to replace it. If stretching is severe, no care routine can restore it—replace the suit.
• Pilling or rough texture: Cause: Salt water crystals or friction from rough surfaces. Corrective action: Rinse thoroughly and wash gently. Avoid sitting on rough pool edges. If pilling is widespread, the fabric is degrading—invest in a new suit.

Products That Help You Care for Swimwear

• Made in Italy Magic Pants-Green camo: High stretch, elasticated waist with drawstring, and can be folded up for a cropped look. When you're not in the water, this versatile pant offers comfort and style, and its foldable design makes it easy to pack and store without creasing—just like your swimwear, it benefits from careful folding.
• Gym Bunny Cloud-soft Flare leggings- Black: Ultra-soft, stretchy fabric with a high-waisted fit and flattering flare leg. After a swim, slipping into these leggings gives you all-day comfort. Their high-waisted design stays in place, and the soft fabric is gentle on skin—just like your swimwear, they need proper care to last.

Proper swimwear care is simple: rinse, hand wash, dry flat in shade, and store folded. By following these steps, you'll prevent chlorine and salt water damage, keep colors vibrant, and extend the life of your favorite suits. When a suit is beyond repair, don't hesitate to treat yourself to a new one—caring for it from day one will make it last.