How to Care for Your Swimwear to Keep It Looking New

Quick Answer

To keep swimwear looking new, rinse it in cold water immediately after swimming, hand wash with a gentle detergent, and dry it flat away from direct sunlight. Avoid wringing, machine washing, and high heat to preserve elasticity and color.

A great bikini is an investment in confidence and style, but chlorine, salt water, and sun can take a toll. With the right swimsuit care routine, you can keep colors vibrant and fabrics snug for many seasons.

Whether you own a triangle-black-474a3d4ff28964625b944145-937713">triangle-aquamarine-e8d71b995467410075e4cb11-936849">triangle-baby-pink-44b2447dc197315e80e18de6-937027">halterneck triangle or a sleek bandeau, these swimwear maintenance steps will help you get the most from your pieces. Follow this simple guide to protect your swimwear from the inside out.

Why Swimwear Needs Special Care

Swimwear fabrics are delicate by design. Spandex and nylon blends, like the 84% nylon and 16% spandex used in our Side Tie Bikini Briefs, are chosen for stretch and recovery. But these fibers are vulnerable to chlorine, salt, and UV rays, which can break down elasticity and fade colors.

Understanding the materials helps you care for them properly. Most swimwear is double-lined for opacity and support, so gentle handling is crucial. Harsh chemicals, rough washing, and twisting can permanently distort the fit and finish.

• Always check the care label for specific instructions.
• Treat sunscreen and oils as enemies—they can stain and degrade fabric.

Step-by-Step Swimwear Care Routine

Consistency is key. After each wear, follow these steps to keep your swimsuit in top condition. This routine works for all types, from triangle tops to side-tie briefs.

Start by rinsing your suit in cool, fresh water as soon as you leave the water. This removes chlorine, salt, and sand before they settle into the fibers. Then, gently hand wash with a mild detergent made for delicates.

Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear. Press the suit between towels to remove excess water—never wring or twist. Finally, lay it flat on a dry towel in the shade to air dry. Avoid clothespins that can leave marks.

• Use a swimwear-specific detergent or a gentle, fragrance-free soap.
• Never use hot water, bleach, or fabric softeners—they damage elasticity.
• Rotate between two or three suits to reduce wear and allow full drying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even well-intentioned care can cause harm. One common mistake is machine washing, which can snag delicate fabrics and misshape cups. Another is drying in direct sunlight, which fades colors and weakens fibers.

Storing wet swimwear in a plastic bag is a breeding ground for mildew. Always dry completely before storing. And avoid ironing—heat melts synthetic fibers and ruins the finish.

• Skip the dryer entirely; air drying is the only safe method.
• Don't use rough surfaces to dry—lay flat on a clean towel.

5-Step Swimwear Care Process

1. Rinse Immediately: After swimming, rinse your suit in cool, fresh water to remove chlorine, salt, and sand. Do this before the suit dries to prevent buildup. Checkpoint: Water runs clear—no suds or residue.
2. Hand Wash Gently: Use a mild detergent and gently swish the suit in cool water. Avoid scrubbing or twisting, which can stretch fibers. Checkpoint: No harsh rubbing—just a few gentle squeezes.
3. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse until no soap remains. Soap residue can attract dirt and cause discoloration. Checkpoint: Water is completely clear.
4. Press Out Water: Lay the suit on a clean towel and roll it up to absorb excess water. Press, don't wring. Checkpoint: Suit is damp, not dripping.
5. Dry Flat in Shade: Place the suit on a dry towel in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight and clothespins that can distort shape. Checkpoint: Fully dry before storing—never store damp.

Products That Benefit from Proper Care

• Side Tie Bikini Briefs: These Sapphire side-tie bikini briefs boast a cheeky and low-rise cut, made from 84% Nylon and 16% Spandex, with adjustable ties at the sides. The adjustable ties and stretchy blend maintain their shape best when hand washed and air dried, preventing sagging and keeping the fit snug.
• Bandeau: The Sapphire bandeau is a rich, shimmering hue that can appear more blue or purple depending on the light, with a strapless cut and gold ring accent. Shimmering colors are prone to fading; rinsing in cold water and avoiding sun drying helps preserve the jewel tone and the gold ring's luster.

Caring for your swimwear doesn't have to be time-consuming. A few minutes after each swim can dramatically extend the life of your favorite bikinis. Follow this routine to keep colors bright, fabrics snug, and your confidence high every time you hit the beach or pool.