keeping your swimsuit well kept

KEEPING YOUR THINGS WELL KEPT - our ongoing product care series.

For the past few years I have been investing more and more in my swimwear (see our sustainable recommendations here). I am a big fan of the ocean and am also a fan of keeping it as clean as possible, so as sustainable and eco-conscious brands have hit the market, I've made the leap despite the higher price points. 

I know bathing suits take a beating due to exposure to chlorine, high temperatures, sunscreen, ocean salt, and sweat. Here are 5 tips to help keep your swimwear looking great for infinite summer seasons ahead:

1. CLEANING: Perspiration and sunscreen cause the elastic fibers in a bathing suit to stretch and break down so it’s key to remove those contaminants after every wear. I suggest hand washing in cold water in your bathtub, sink, or bowl with a gentle liquid detergent — flip your swimsuit inside out, submerge, swish, rinse and hang on a drying rack out of direct sunlight. Salty ocean dips, rinse, and repeat. 

2. EXTRA CLEANING TIPS: Distilled white vinegar can be used as an emergency substitute for detergent when washing. Stay away from powdered detergent as it may not dissolve in the cold water and leave marks. Spread your suit flat to dry in a location out of direct sunlight. The UV rays from the sun can both fade and break down the fibers in your suit.

3. STORING: Hanging your bathing suit will stretch out the fibres, instead store your bathing suit lying flat when it’s fully dry. When storing away for the season, place your swimwear into a fabric garment bag. Avoid using plastic bags as they are a breeding ground for mildew and bacteria. 

4. FIXING: Broken straps and small holes happen, especially if you’re enjoying all of the outdoor water activities such as kayaking, surfing and wakeboarding. Using polyester thread to hand sew any holes or snags will hold the strongest. For any bigger holes or tears, take your bathing suit to a professional tailor. 

5. AVOID: Don’t put your swimsuit in the dryer — the heat will weaken the elasticity of the spandex. Don’t wear your favorite bathing suit in a hot tub — the chemicals will break down the fabric. Don’t hang a swimsuit on a metal rod — it can leave a rust mark that’s impossible to get out. Avoid sitting on rough surfaces that could snag your swimsuit — material such as rough concrete, frayed wood or broken chairs are the worst culprits.