🩱 How to Wash Swimwear: Aussie Care Tips for Your Bathers

Your bathing suit endures a lot—sun exposure, sweat, sunscreen, chlorine, salt water, and sand all take their toll. But don’t worry! With proper swimsuit care, you can keep your swimwear looking fresh season after season.

Regular TLC, like a quick rinse after every swim, will go a long way in maintaining your swimsuit's condition.

When it’s time for a full wash, always use cold water. Hot water can cause fabric fading and extreme temperatures can damage the elasticity of your swimwear fabric. While machine washing is convenient, hand washing is gentler and better for preserving the delicate material of your swimsuit. TABLE OF CONTENTS

Knowing how to wash swimsuits the correct way will make a massive difference to the life span of your bathers. Let’s look into the best practices for washing swimsuits and keeping your swimwear in top shape!

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🏖️ Top Tips for Your Bathing Suit

• Detergent: Use a gentle detergent or one specifically formulated for spandex and other swimwear fabrics.

• Water Temperature: Always use cold water to prevent fading and preserve the fabric.

• Cycle Type: Hand wash only to protect the delicate fabric and garments.

• Drying: Avoid the dryer—always air dry your suit.

• Ironing: Never iron your bathers; the heat will damage the fabric.

🧺 What You’ll Need to Wash Swimsuits

Tools:

• A sink or basin

• A drying rack

Materials:

• Mild laundry detergent (or one for spandex)

• Cold water

• A bit of baking soda

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🧼 How to Care for Your Swimsuit: Step-by-Step

Rinse After Each Wear

After swimming in saltwater, chlorine, hot tubs or the use of sunscreen, rinse your wet swimsuit in cool tap water to wash off any residue. The quicker you rinse, the better!

Let It Soak (When You’ve Got Time)

If you’ve got 30 minutes, soak your bathing suit in cool water. This helps remove sand, body oils, and other residues that could degrade the fabric over time. If you’re short on time, rinse and wash your swimsuit every 3–5 uses.

Treat Any Stains

Got a stubborn stain? Mix 1/3 cup warm water with 6 teaspoons of baking soda, and apply it with a sponge or an old toothbrush. Let it dry completely before washing.

For tougher stains, like underarm marks or fake tan, use a stain remover or oxygen bleach—or consider using an older swimsuit when tanning!

Hand Wash in the Sink

Fill your sink with cool water, add a teaspoon of mild laundry detergent, and gently swish your bathing suit around. Turn it inside out to protect the delicate material. After cleaning, rinse thoroughly in cold water.

Don’t Wring Out the Water

Gently squeeze excess water from your swimsuit, either between a dry towel or with your hands. Avoid twisting or wringing—it can stretch and damage the fabric.

Air Dry

Air drying your swimmers is the best method to preserve shape and elasticity. You can do this by laying your swimsuit flat on a drying rack in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.

💧 Air Dry Your Swimwear the Right Way

🪡 Swimsuit Care & Repairs

Got a broken strap or a snag in your bathers? You can repair it with a needle and polyester thread. For snags, loop the thread through and knot gently to secure. Avoid rough surfaces like pool edges or concrete, which can damage your suit.

📦 How to Store Your Swimsuit

Store your swimwear flat and fully dry. If storing for the season, avoid plastic bags. Opt for a breathable fabric garment bag to keep your suit fresh.

🧽 Should You Wash Your Swimsuit Before Wearing It?

Yes! New swimsuits can carry dyes or residues from manufacturing. Always hand wash them in cold water with mild detergent before wearing, and air dry them thoroughly.

👕 Gentle Drying for Delicate Fabrics

💡 Extra Tips for Washing Your Bathing Suit

• ❌ Skip powdered detergent—it can leave residue on your swimsuit.
• ❌ Never use chlorine bleach—it can weaken the elasticity of the fabric.
• ✅ In a pinch, distilled white vinegar can freshen and deodorise your bathers.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What should I avoid washing my bathers in?
Avoid all harsh chemicals, high temperatures, and the washing machine. Always hand wash with cold, soapy water.

How long do swimsuits last?
It depends on how often you wear them and how well you care for them. With proper care, your suit can last multiple seasons.

Can I machine wash and tumble dry my swimsuit?
Hand washing is ideal. If using a machine, place your suit in a mesh laundry bag and use a delicate cycle with cold water and mild detergent. Its best to avoid high temperatures from dryers can weaken swimwear elasticity and damage fibres.

Can baking soda freshen my bathers?
Yes! Soaking them in cold water with half a cup of baking soda helps deodorise and brighten them.

How do I care for competition swimsuits?
These suits are delicate. Rinse thoroughly after each swim and avoid abrasive surfaces like pool walls. Always hand wash and air dry.

When should I rinse my swimmers after use?
Swimwear should be rinsed in fresh water immediately after swimming to remove chemicals, salt, and sand.

✅ Conclusion

Taking proper care of your swimsuit helps preserve its shape, colour, and longevity. By rinsing after each swim, hand washing with cold water, and avoiding harsh detergents or dryers, you’ll keep your swimwear in great condition season after season.

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