How to Wash a Swimsuit So It Fits Better: 5 Nuances You Need to Know

All of this can ruin a bikini – and it’s very disappointing! It’s not just a question of money: finding a suitable model that flatters your figure without causing discomfort is not that simple. Therefore, today we are going to tell you how to wash a swimsuit so that it fits better. But let’s start a little further away…

“The nuances of washing a swimsuit are linked to the materials it is made of. Typically, swimsuits are made from nylon or polyester with the addition of elastane – lycra or spandex. They are quite durable fabrics, but if you do not know their characteristics, they can be easily damaged, ”explains Kathleen Razmus, expert in washing and clothing care at a cleaning company.

“The first rule to remember for anyone who wants to know how to care for a swimsuit is to wash it after each wear, even if you haven’t been in the water. Sunscreens contain ingredients that can damage fibers, and mineral-based lotions and creams can cause fabrics to turn yellow, says designer and swimsuit designer Maricia Reeves.

As you probably already guessed, experts’ advice on washing a swimsuit begins with a life-complicating recommendation: you need to stop using the washing machine – here’s how to do it right.

This simple step is the best thing you can (and should!) do for your swimsuit: immediately after wearing it, it’s important to remove any chemicals and dirt that have become embedded in the fabric. At this stage, there is no need to thoroughly wash the swimsuit – just fill a basin or sink with water and throw the item there for half an hour. If you’re a perfectionist, you can start rinsing off right on the beach – any thick bag will do.

“It’s not exactly a secret to taking care of a swimsuit, but rather a general rule for handling everything. If you don’t treat stains, they can become embedded in the fabric after washing, and rubbing it is not the best way to wash a swimsuit that prefers delicate handling, but if it is rough it stretches quickly and no longer flatters your figure,” says Kathleen.

To remove stains, she recommends using a paste made from baking soda and water: apply it to the mark, wait for it to dry, and shake off the powder. “The worst stains are those left by sunscreen. In this case, washing a swimsuit at home will not be done without patience: the item of clothing must be soaked in oxygen bleach for eight hours, ”Reeves advises.

“I am often asked what products to use to wash a swimsuit. I recommend choosing products designed for activewear, but regular powders will do. Don’t add too much: in this case, less is more. If you don’t have detergent on hand, you can replace it with dishwashing liquid,” explains Lindsey Boyd, creator of the natural laundry detergent brand.

“To maintain the shape of your swimsuit during washing, don’t overdo it: just gently knead the fabric with your hands for a few minutes. Before doing this, return the item – if you remember to do this, it will look new for longer. Rinse the swimsuit, wring it out gently, but do not wring it under any circumstances, so as not to damage it,” advises Lindsay.

Proper drying will help extend the life of a swimsuit, and its main principle is minimal heat. “High temperatures make spandex brittle and when it ‘breaks’, white fibers appear on the fabric. If you notice them, it’s probably because you’ve gone too far with the degrees, either when washing or drying,” explains Maricia.

Reeves advises never putting a swimsuit in the dryer, drying it with towels, then laying it flat in the shade. “If you are wondering what to do to prevent your swimsuit from fading, I advise you first of all to never leave it in direct sunlight, it already spends enough time underneath when you wear it,” adds the ‘expert.

In the case of automatic washing of a swimsuit, the recommendations will be repeated: first, soak the item, and secondly, use cold water – this will maintain the elasticity of the fabric and its brightness. The following rules must also be respected:

Read also: 5 best models of swimsuits for women 50+: stylists’ opinions

If you needed a reason to have multiple swimsuits, here it is: while you use one, the fibers in the second will have time to fully regain their shape throughout the day.

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