*please note that while our swimwear is extremely durable, UV protective and machine wash friendly, these are suggestions to keep your new suit looking like new, forever.*

Written by Ciara Johnson

There are some clothing items that are true investments, swimwear topping the list at $160-$200 on average per set. The barely-there garments aren’t made of much but the little bit that is used is delicate and should be handled with care in order to maintain their amazing quality and lifespan. From the sun and sand to the chlorine and SPF those fibers that are exposed to serious wear and tear. And regardless of the price tag, be it a $20 suit or $300, there are some simple tricks that can help to prolong the life of your swimwear.

Rinse in tap water

– it’s almost second nature to throw dirty clothes into the wash, but swimwear isn’t just any type of clothing and doesn’t need to be washed every time it’s worn. After swimming and sunbathing it’s best to simply thoroughly hand rinse your suit with cool tap water.

Washing

– it’s only necessary to fully wash your suit after it’s been worn a few times. Fill your sink with lukewarm water and add a tablespoon of mild detergent; swish around a few minutes and rinse well with cool water. Some would say simply throw your suit into a mesh lingerie bag and toss in the washer however handwashing is gentler and allows for a more thorough cleaning.

Do not use Washing Machine

– while our Lycra fabric is amazing and does stand the test of several machine washes, even on a gentle cycle washing a swimsuit in the washing machine will cause damage to the fibers of the suit over time. The swishing and swirling, rubbing against other fabrics and the amount of detergent used in a load of laundry will aid in the wear and tear of your suit.

Do not Wring Dry

– it may be instinctual to wring out your suit when handwashing but twisting out your suit damages the fibers of the fabric instead, gently squeeze the water from the suit and lay flat to dry.

Do not Lay in Sun

– one of the most important things to remember about caring for your swimwear is to not lay it out in the sun to dry. The sun not only causes the fabric to fade but breaks the fibers which damage the elasticity of the swimsuit. Also DO NOT place in the dyer, overexposure to heat will tamper with the fibers and causing damage and stretch out the suit. The best way to dry it would be to lay it flat indoors or outside BUT in the shade.

Stain Removal

– if you’ve ever owned an all-white or light colored suit you know it’s an immense bummer when the suit becomes stained either by constant use or a random spill or brush up. Don’t run for the stain remover so fast; place a generous amount of baking soda or vinegar on the stain and let sit for about 1-2 hours then gently hand wash as instructed above. For all-white suits that are starting to get that yellowish look to them, fill up your sink with lukewarm water and 2-3 tablespoons of baking soda or vinegar let sit for 1-2 hours wash as instructed above.