How to Wash a Swimsuit to Make It Last Longer
Step by step care guide for washing a bikini
Carefully washing a swimsuit will ensure it lasts for a long time and holds its shape and color well. Washing a swimsuit in a washing machine can cause it to stretch, fade, and may warp the seams and elastic holding it together. Over time, using a washing machine will cause the shape to loose its integrity, the feel of the fabric will change, and the colors will fade with each wash. As swimwear is already a piece of clothing exposed to the elements with chlorine from pools, suntan lotions, and salt water from the ocean, how you care for it after swimming can make all the difference in how long it lasts. We believe swimwear is an investment, and want to equip you with the best guide on how to make sure your Pure Bliss Bikini will last a long time.
Step 1: Rinse bikini with cold water in sink
Fill up a bathroom sink with a little cold water and rinse the swimsuit well to remove any chlorine, salt water, or suntan lotions. Never use warm or hot water to wash a swimsuit as this can cause the colors to fade.
Step 2: Gently wash bathing suit with a little detergent, vinegar, or soap
This step is up to your discretion. If you have a favorite laundry detergent, a little sprinkle of it can work great or try a little white vinegar. We prefer to use a nickel size amount of castile liquid soap because it suds so well and can be purchased at a very reasonable price. There are many brands that make it and different scents that can cut the chemical chlorine smell after a trip to the pool.
Step 3: Rinse swimsuit with cold water a second time to remove cleaner
To remove the detergent, soap, or vinegar used in the previous step simply rinse with cold water for an adequate amount of time to ensure all of the cleaning agent is removed.
Step 4: Remove excess water by patting dry with a towel
Avoid ringing out the bathing suit as this can cause the four way stretch fabric to warp and break down faster. Place the swimsuit on a towel and pat it down to remove excess water.
Step 5: To dry, lay flat in shade or hang on towel rack
Do not ever place a swimsuit in a dryer. Instead, lay your swimsuit on a towel in a shaded place, or for less hassle hang it over a towel rack. Avoid hanging a swimsuit up to dry by one strap as this could cause the suit to stretch. Hang the bulk of the body of the bathing suit over the rack so there is not too much weight causing it to stretch.
*Cover Photo: Clothespin on a rope near the sea by Dimitri Houtteman via Upsplash.