How to Wash Swimsuit

Why Swimsuits Degrade So Fast

Swimsuits are exposed to some of the harshest conditions of any garment — chlorine from pools, salt from the ocean, UV rays, sunscreen chemicals, and body oils. These break down the elastic fibers (spandex/lycra) that give swimwear its stretch and shape. Proper care after every swim dramatically extends the life of your swimsuit.

Step 1: Rinse Immediately After Every Swim

The single most important thing you can do: rinse your swimsuit in cool, clean water immediately after getting out of the pool or ocean. This removes chlorine, salt, and sunscreen before they have time to break down the fabric. Don't wait until you get home — use the pool shower or a water bottle if needed.

Step 2: Hand Wash After Every Wear

Swimsuits should be hand washed after every swim — not just rinsed:

1. Fill a basin with cool water — never hot, which degrades elastic
2. Add a small amount of gentle detergent like Eucalan Fine Fabric Wash — its no-rinse formula is ideal for swimwear
3. Submerge the swimsuit and gently squeeze water through for 1–2 minutes
4. Pay attention to the lining and any areas with sunscreen buildup
5. Rinse thoroughly in cool water (or skip if using Eucalan)
6. Gently press out excess water — never wring or twist

Can You Machine Wash a Swimsuit?

Machine washing is not recommended for swimsuits — the agitation and spin cycle stress the elastic fibers and cause them to lose stretch faster. If you must machine wash, use a wet bag or mesh laundry bag, select the delicate cycle with cold water, and skip the spin cycle if possible.

Step 3: Dry Properly

• Never put a swimsuit in the dryer — heat destroys elastic permanently
• Never wring — press gently between two towels to remove excess water
• Lay flat to dry in the shade — direct sunlight fades color and degrades elastic
• Never hang a wet swimsuit by the straps — the weight of the water stretches them out of shape

How to Remove Sunscreen Stains from Swimsuits

Sunscreen (especially mineral sunscreen) leaves white or yellow stains on swimwear. To remove:

• Apply a small amount of dish soap directly to the stain
• Gently rub with your fingers and let sit 10 minutes
• Rinse thoroughly with cool water
• Repeat if needed before the stain sets

Quick Tips to Make Swimsuits Last Longer

• Rinse immediately after every swim — don't let chlorine or salt sit on the fabric
• Rotate between two or more swimsuits so each gets time to recover its shape
• Avoid sitting on rough surfaces (pool edges, concrete) which abrade the fabric
• Apply sunscreen before putting on your swimsuit and let it absorb before swimming
• Never leave a wet swimsuit in a bag for hours — it causes odor and color transfer

Recommended Products

• Eucalan Fine Fabric Wash — gentle no-rinse formula perfect for hand washing swimwear
• babygoal Wet Dry Bags — carry wet swimsuits without soaking your bag, and use as a mesh wash bag