How To Care For Your Swimsuit (So It Lasts for More Than one Summer)

A good swimsuit should move with you, support you, and feel just as good on day one as it does on day fifty. Whether you’re swimming laps, chasing kids, surfing, or lounging poolside, proper care makes all the difference in how long your suit lasts.

Here’s how to keep your swimsuit looking, fitting, and performing its best.

1. Rinse Immediately After Wear

Salt water, chlorine, sunscreen, and sweat can all break down fabric over time. As soon as you’re done swimming, rinse your suit in cool, clean water—even if you didn’t get it wet. This simple step helps prevent fading, stretching, and fiber damage.

2. Hand Wash Gently

Your swimsuit works hard, so treat it gently. Hand wash using cool water and a mild detergent (or a detergent made specifically for swimwear). Avoid harsh soaps, bleach, or fabric softeners—they can weaken elasticity and dull color.

Pro tip: Don’t twist or wring your suit to remove water. Instead, gently press it between a towel.

3. Skip the Washing Machine (and Dryer)

Even on delicate cycles, washing machines can be rough on swim fabrics. Heat, agitation, and spinning can stretch seams and elastic. Dryers are even tougher—heat is one of the fastest ways to break down swimwear.

Always air dry your suit flat or hang it in a shaded area.

4. Avoid Direct Sunlight While Drying

Sunlight can fade colors over time. While swimsuits are made for the sun, drying them in direct sunlight can cause unnecessary wear. Lay your suit flat in the shade to help preserve its color and shape.

5. Be Mindful of Where You Sit

Rough surfaces like concrete, pool decks, and rocks can snag or pill fabric. Sitting on a towel or cover-up helps protect your suit from abrasion—especially for textured or ribbed fabrics.

6. Rotate Your Swimsuits

Giving your suit time to fully dry and recover between wears helps maintain elasticity. Rotating between suits extends their lifespan and keeps each one fitting better for longer.

7. Store With Care

Once fully dry, store your swimsuit flat or folded in a cool, dry place. Avoid stuffing it into tight spaces or leaving it damp in a bag, which can lead to stretching or mildew.

A little extra care goes a long way. When you treat your swimsuit well, it’s ready for every adventure this season and the next.