During the hot summer months in Arizona it’s almost a necessity to spend some time by the pool but all that time in chlorinated water can be rough on your swimwear.
Swimsuits are made from spandex that is stretchy but eventually breaks down over time. This breakdown happens more quickly with exposure to body oils, sunscreen and harsh pool chemicals.
If you worked hard to find a swimsuit you like, you need to take care of it to make it last! To protect your favorite swimwear we have some helpful tips:
Wash Before You Wear:
It’s always a good idea to wash a garment before you wear it for the first time. Not only does this protect your skin from any harsh chemicals used in the production but it also helps to seal in the color of your suit. Washing your swimsuit for the first time is best done by hand with no chemicals, just some water and a tablespoon of vinegar. Simply fill a sink with some water and the vinegar and give your suit a few quick swishes in the solution. This quick cleanse will help protect the color and the fabric.
Rinse! Never let your swimsuit sit after use without a good rinse first:
When chemicals have a chance to sit and dry, they dry up the fibers along with them and cause big problems down the line. A quick rinse with water will help prevent those chemicals from sticking.
Rinse your suit under running water for at least two minutes and try not to squeeze or pull at the fabric, as this contributes to the fabric’s breakdown and may actually push chemicals into new crevices in the elastic.
No Bleach:
Pools are full of harsh chemicals so the last thing your swimsuit needs to get clean is more harsh chemicals. Only a mild detergent should be used on your swimsuit and be sure to rinse it fully.
Be Gentle:
Most swimsuits can be thrown on the washing machine without too much issue but to really preserve your swimwear, you can take a few extra steps. The first is to always turn your swimsuits inside out to protect the colors on the exterior, and then put your swimwear into a nylon bag before putting it in the washing machine. This protects the fabric as the machine pushes it around. It’s a good idea to use a delicate cycle and cool water for swimwear.
Another option is washing by hand. Simply fill a sink with some cool water and a tiny bit of mild detergent. Swish your suit in the water for a few minutes, let it soak for 15 minutes, then rinse completely. Be sure and pay extra attention to the underarm area and straps of your suit as you wash as these are the areas that become discolored the fastest.
Avoid the Dryer:
Dryers are great for getting clothes dry in a rush but all the heat and movement can be tough on materials–especially those with elastic like swimwear. Lay it flat to keep the fabric from stretching. This will help preserve its shape and its quality.
