At Cleanipedia, we know that nobody wants to wear smelly or stained swimming gear. So to ensure you can hit the waves with confidence, here are tips on how to wash your bikinis and swimwear the right way, so you can enjoy the sun, sand and sea without any worries!
Washing Your Swimwear Effectively, Matters
A day at the beach or pool can be a great way to relax and unwind. However, sweat, sunscreen, sand and pool chemicals can build up in your swimwear, causing it to fade, stretch or lose its shape. It can also result in your swimsuit harbouring harmful bacteria and germs that can cause infections, rashes or worse.
While washing your bikinis and swimwear after every use is the solution, if you don't wash your swimwear properly you run the risk of damaging it even further. So it’s essential to ensure you clean your bikinis and swimwear properly after every swim to keep them hygienic, clean and fresh so you can stay looking and feeling your best all season long. If you’ve been wondering how to wash a swimming costume properly, we’ve got you covered with some terrific tips on common mistakes to avoid and the best methods to use to keep your swimsuit clean and looking like new.
What to Avoid When Washing Swimwear
A common mistake people make when washing swimwear is using hot water to wash the garment, which can damage the fabric and cause it to lose its elasticity. Other mistakes people make are washing swimwear in a washing machine on the wrong cycle or temperature setting, or placing the swimsuit in a dryer. These factors can damage your swimwear by causing it to stretch, fade or snag.
Top Tips to Wash Your Bikinis and Swimwear
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Rinse After Every Dip: No matter what water body you’re taking a dip in, after wearing your swimwear, rinse it with cool water to remove sand, sweat, saltwater, sunscreen and other chemicals found in pools or beaches, that can damage the fabric of bikinis and swimming costumes.
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Check Your Swimwear Care Label: Most swimwear comes with care instructions on the label. So before washing, check these instructions to ensure that you are not using the wrong detergent or methods that could damage the swimsuit material.
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Handwashing for the Win: Ideally, you always should handwash your swimsuits as washing machines can damage the fabric and elasticity of your swimwear. So when you can, handwash your swimwear.
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Go for Cold: With bikinis and swimwear, washing with cold water is best as it’s gentle on the fabric and helps to prevent fading or shrinking. While hot water can damage the fibres and cause the fabric to lose its shape.
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Avoid Harsh Detergents: Avoid using harsh cleaners or bleach which can cause discolouration and damage the fabric of your swimwear.
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Don't Wring or Twist: After washing, gently squeeze out the excess water instead of wringing or twisting the swimwear, to help preserve its shape and elasticity.
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Air Dry It: Always air dry your swimwear in a cool, shaded area, away from direct sunlight.
With these tips, you can keep your swimsuit in top condition, but only if combined with the right washing techniques. Wondering how to wash swimwear in a washing machine or the best way to handwash your costume? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered:
Proper Handwashing Technique for Swimwear
To hand wash your swimwear, fill a sink or basin with cool water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Swirl the water to dissolve the detergent. Then, place your swimwear in the water and use your hands to agitate the water. Be careful not to scrub too hard as this can cause damage. Let the swimwear soak for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing it thoroughly with cool water.
Proper Machine Washing Technique for Swimwear
If you must use a washing machine, make sure to put the swimwear in a mesh laundry bag to prevent it from getting tangled with other clothes. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent, and avoid using the spin cycle as this can stretch out the fabric.
With these simple tips, you can keep your bikinis and swimwear clean, hygienic and fresh, ready for your next aquatic adventure. Just take the time to properly wash and care for your swimming gear, and you'll be sure to make a splash this summer!
