### Paraphrased Text:
### Time Required:
– Total: 30 minutes
– Skill Level: For Beginners
Properly cleaning your swimsuit can significantly impact its longevity and color retention. Swimwear fabrics endure considerable wear and tear from pool chemicals, sunscreen, saltwater, sweat, and sand. However, by mastering the right washing techniques, you can maintain your suit’s pristine appearance throughout the season. We consulted two experts—a swimsuit designer and a laundry expert—to gather advice on hand-washing and machine-washing swimwear.
Marysia Reeves, designer and founder of Marysia Swim, and Lindsey J. Boyd, co-founder of the eco-friendly detergent brand The Laundress
After each use, regardless of whether you’ve been in the water, it’s essential to wash your swimsuit. “Sunscreen ingredients can be harmful to the fabric and may contribute to the degradation of the material,” advises Marysia Reeves, the designer.
Furthermore, Lindsey J. Boyd cautions that certain sunscreens are more harmful than others. Mineral-based lotions and oils can lead to yellowing or gradual stains if not properly cleaned.
The ideal action for your swimsuit is to rinse it with cool water immediately after wearing it. For extra effectiveness, soak the suit in a sink filled with cool water for approximately 30 minutes to eliminate most chemicals and body soil that can harm the fabric. Wash after the soak is complete.
For convenience, fill a waterproof bag or a small container with clean water to soak your swimsuit during your journey home from the pool or beach. Just ensure you wash it promptly. Avoid soaking the swimsuit overnight, as this can weaken the fibers.
### Cleaning Tools:
– Soft-bristled brush
– Clean towel
– Mesh laundry bag
– Gentle detergent
– Optional: White vinegar
While machine washing may be acceptable, hand-washing is preferable for preserving the suit’s shape. Here’s how to do it:
1. Fill a sink with lukewarm water and add a small amount of detergent designed for athletic wear. A teaspoon is sufficient for one suit.
2. In a pinch, Lindsey J. Boyd recommends using a little white vinegar, which has deodorizing and antibacterial qualities, instead of detergent.
3. Gently scrub the inside of the suit to maintain the exterior fabric’s appearance, focusing on areas that may have come into contact with sweat and sunscreen.
4. Apply a small amount of detergent to a soft-bristled brush and gently scrub areas like necklines and sunscreen stains.
5. Swish the suit in the soapy water, gently squeezing the fabric for a few minutes, then empty the sink.
6. Refill the sink with cool, clean water to rinse the suit. Squeeze out the water gently—do not wring.
7. Roll the suit in a terrycloth towel to absorb excess water or hang it to air-dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Using a fan can speed up the drying process. Avoid using a dryer as high temperatures can permanently damage the fabric.
For machine washing, ensure the suit is suitable for this method according to the care label. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. Avoid washing the swimsuit with beach towels, and instead, use fabrics of a similar synthetic nature. Refrain from using the dryer, as it can harm the suit’s fibers. Hang the suit to dry, avoiding metal rods that could distort the shape or leave rust stains.
Swimsuits that are not rinsed or washed promptly can develop a musty odor due to mildew, exacerbated by chlorine or saltwater. To combat mildew, soak the suit in a mixture of dissolved baking soda and water (try a ratio of 1 part baking soda to 4 parts water) for 30 minutes before hand-washing with a gentle liquid detergent.
Baking soda can help lift mildew odors without damaging the fabric. After washing, rinse thoroughly and dry in a well-ventilated, low-humidity area. If the suit still smells after drying, repeat the process or try soaking it in a vinegar and water solution. In some cases, mildew may be too severe to remove, necessitating a new swimsuit.
Swimsuits will naturally fade over time due to sun exposure, salt, chlorine, and other chemicals. To minimize fading, rinse the suit in cool water after swimming and avoid direct sunlight when not in use. Air-dry in the shade and store in a shaded area. Limit exposure to hot tubs and spas with chemicals, as high temperatures can also damage the fabric. And finally, avoid sitting on rough surfaces like poolside concrete or lounge chair wood to prevent snags. Always use a beach towel to protect the suit when sitting.
