How to Wash Swimwear and Keep it Looking Good All Summer Long
Everything we love most about summer — sunny days, trips to the beach, and dips in the pool — is rough on our swimwear. Heat, chlorine, and salt cause colours to fade and reduce the material’s resilience over time. Luckily, you can take a few easy steps to keep your swimsuit looking good all summer long. Discover how to wash your swimwear this summer with Liquid Laundromats.
Rinse Before and After You Swim
Giving your swimsuit a quick rinse after a swim helps remove some of the chemicals, salt, and sand until you can give it a proper wash. Post-swim rinsing is a no-brainer for most people; what’s less well known is the importance of pre-rinsing before you take a dip.
While generally quite durable, prolonged exposure to water containing salt or chlorine can break down the polymers in swimwear that give the fabric its stretch. A quick rinse before a swim can help slow this process down.
Time is of the Essence: Wash as Soon as You Get Home
Don’t leave your wet togs balled up in the boot of your car or buried at the bottom of your laundry basket. Unwashed swimwear can stress the fabric, encourage mildew growth, and give funky smells more time to set in. Ensure your swimsuit is beach-ready by heading down to our self-service laundromat as soon as possible.
How to Wash Swimwear by Hand
We recommend washing most swimwear by hand as it is the gentlest method, preventing any stretching or loss of elasticity. Follow these steps when washing by hand:
- Fill the sink with cold-to-room-temperature water and a mild, non-bleaching detergent.
- Turn inside out, and gently massage the fabric to remove all the dirt and chemicals.
- Drain the soapy water and rinse until the water runs clear.
How to Wash Swimwear in the Washing Machine
While hand-washing is the safest option, most swimwear, especially swim trunks, will do just fine in the washer. If machine washing is more convenient for you, follow these steps to ensure the best possible results:
- Use a mesh laundry bag to prevent catching.
- Use a small amount of mild, non-bleaching washing powder.
- Wash on a gentle cycle with cold water. You should also add a few towels to the load to prevent over-agitation.
Steer Clear of the Dryer when Drying Swimwear
When washing swimwear, it’s essential to let it dry fully before putting it away, as lingering moisture can create odours and permanently damage the material. Be sure to steer clear of dyers and direct sunlight, as heat damages the stretchy synthetics of swimwear. Instead, remove excess moisture by rolling your swimwear in a towel, then lay down flat in a well-ventilated area to dry.
Keep Your Swimwear Beach-Ready!
Ensure your swimsuit stays beach-ready all summer long by following our guide on how to wash swimwear. The key to caring for your togs this sunny season is prompt action. So don’t wait! Visit our Cambridge laundromat or any other Liquid Laundromats location and put our advice to the test.