Proper swimwear care is critical because exposure to chlorine, saltwater, sunscreen, and sun can significantly damage fabric and reduce your swimsuit’s lifespan. Your favorite swimsuit encounters those harsh elements every time you wear it to the pool or beach. Chlorine breaks down elasticity, saltwater crystallizes in fibers, causing abrasion, and UV rays fade colors and weaken materials. At OXXO Cleaners that Care, we’ve seen how these environmental factors can turn a vibrant, well-fitting swimsuit into a faded, stretched-out disappointment in just one season. With the right care techniques, however, you can extend your swimwear’s life by several seasons.
Rinsing Swimsuits The Right Way After Use
Rinsing your swimsuit immediately after use with cold, fresh water is the single most important step in proper swimwear care. That quick rinse makes a tremendous difference in your swimsuit’s longevity by removing harmful chemicals before they can set into the fabric. When you step out of the pool or ocean, try to rinse your suit within 30 minutes. That’s because chlorine and salt continue to damage fibers even after the suit dries. We recommend using cold water as it’s gentler on elastic fibers and more effective at removing sunscreen oils, which can break down fabric if left to soak in.
How to Make Sure You’re Properly Washing Swimsuits
Hand washing swimsuits with mild, pH-neutral detergent is the ideal method to preserve fabric integrity and color vibrancy. Conversely, machine washing introduces aggressive agitation that can damage delicate swimsuit materials and destroy elasticity. At OXXO Cleaners that Care, we recommend filling a sink with cool water, adding a small amount of gentle detergent specifically formulated for delicates, and swishing your suit around for a few minutes. For stubborn chlorine odors or stains, try adding a tablespoon of white vinegar to your wash water. The mild acid helps neutralize chlorine without damaging fabrics. Gently squeeze—but never wring—the suit to remove excess water after washing.
Drying Your Swimwear Without Damage
Air-drying your swimwear flat on a clean towel away from direct sunlight is the best approach to prevent stretching and color fading. Without a doubt, heat is the enemy of swimwear fabric, especially those containing spandex or elastane. Never use a clothes dryer to dry a swimsuit, as high temperatures can melt fibers and permanently damage it. Instead, lay your swimsuit on a clean, dry towel, and then gently roll the towel to remove excess moisture. Finally, unroll and reshape the suit while it dries naturally. Keep it away from direct sunlight, which can fade colors rapidly. Keep in mind that even UV-resistant fabrics will eventually succumb to sun damage with repeated exposure.
What Are the Best Practices for Swimwear Storage?
Store swimwear in a cool, dry place in breathable containers that allow air circulation while protecting it from dust and direct light. When putting away your swimwear for the season, ensure it’s completely dry to prevent mildew growth. Avoid folding suits with molded cups or padding. Instead, lay them flat or stack them with tissue paper to maintain their shape. Never store swimwear in plastic bags, which trap moisture and can lead to mildew. For bikinis with separate pieces, store components together to prevent mismatching from occurring. For long-term storage, consider these additional tips:
- Use cotton pillowcases or fabric storage bags instead of plastic bags.
- Add a silica gel packet to absorb any residual moisture.
- Store suits away from heat sources and direct sunlight.
- Avoid placing heavy items on top of your swimwear.
By following our washing and storing instructions, you now have the best way to clean and store swimwear at your disposal.
Let OXXO Cleaners that Care Help Extend the Life of Your Swimwear
OXXO Cleaners that Care offers eco-friendly cleaning services that can help maintain your favorite swimwear throughout the seasons. Our specialized cleaning techniques use gentle, nontoxic solutions that effectively remove chlorine, salt, and sunscreen residues without damaging delicate fabrics or elastic components. Whether you need help with stubborn stains or simply want professional care for your swimwear, our team understands the unique requirements of these specialized garments. Visit your nearest OXXO Cleaners that Care location today to learn more about the best ways to clean and store swimwear, or contact us for personalized advice on maintaining your beach and pool essentials. Download the OXXO app now to schedule convenient pickup and delivery service!
