How to care for your swimwear
Properly washing and storing your suit will keep it intact for many seasons to come
QSummer’s almost here. Any tips to care for swimwear?
ASwimwear is as synonymous with summer as are, say, sunshine, the beach and patio beers.
But unlike these other harbingers of the warm-weather season ahead, Lycra-infused swimwear requires some upkeep. And investment.
Up to a certain age, it’s completely appropriate to stop by your local fast-fashion outlet to pick up the tiniest, flimsiest bikini in the shop. But, once it’s time for a little more, well, coverage and support, those structured and stylish swimsuits can set you back $50 ... $150 ... the list goes on.
So, with this type of long-term investment in mind, there are a few key care considerations for pre-, mid- and post-season.
Starting at the top of the suit, whether it’s a halter-neck top tankini or a string bikini, never keep the straps tied when not in use.
Why? Well, because keeping the knots constantly tied wears out the fabric, as it is constantly being rubbed and stretched, according to the team at Bikini Village.
For storage, it’s important to leave your swimsuits somewhere where they can “breathe.” While it may seem like a silly idea, keeping a stretchy fabric crumpled at the bottom of your gym bag or beach bag for a few days can increase the suit’s exposure to humidity, which can weaken the fabric and make it smelly.
Instead, lay your swimsuit flat to dry in the shade — not in the sun, as that too can weaken the elastic fibres — turning it over before storing it away to make sure both sides are dry.
Whatever you do, never, ever put your swimsuit in the dryer as the exposure to the intense heat will cause the suit to become misshapen and will dramatically reduce the garment’s expected lifespan. Guaranteed.
Regardless of whether you wore said swimsuit in the lake, river, chlorine pool, ocean — or even the bathtub — you’re going to need to wash it. Skip the hot or warm water (yes, that too will weaken the fabric’s elastic fibres) and instead opt for water that’s cold or cool.
“Wash your swimsuit regularly, just like you would other clothing,” the Bikini Village team explained. “In addition to removing any traces of chlorine and salt, hand-washing in cold water will also eliminate body oils.”
Much like the delicate washing required of lingerie you should always wash your swimsuits by hand. Even the “delicates” cycle on your washer can make your swimsuit prone to pills and stretching out.
As for soap choice, experts recommend picking up an “extra-mild detergent” option, one that doesn’t include any forms of bleach or fabric softeners.
Avoid washing your swimsuits together or in the same washing bin as dark and light colours can run and bleed, making a mess of your favourite bikini in a hurry. Dry and store as directed above. Following these simple tips are sure to keep your precious beach pieces intact and in full-on summer action for seasons to come.