CAN YOU WASH SWIMSUITS IN THE WASHING MACHINE?

You can wash swimsuits in the washing machine if noted on the swimsuit’s care label. If you are using a washing machine, use the Delicate cycle in cold water and place the swimsuit in a mesh laundry bag to help prevent stretching and snagging.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU WASH A SWIMSUIT?

Wash your swimsuit after every use, regardless of whether you wear it in the water. A wet swimsuit can encourage mildew growth and allow for odors to set in. Even if your swimsuit does not get wet, you may have gotten sunscreen, sand, food, or other items on the fabric.

WASHING A SWIMSUIT IN A WASHER: A GUIDE

Always check your swimsuit’s care label before tossing it in the washing machine. Once you’ve confirmed that your swimsuit can go in the washer, place it in a mesh bag and use a low spin, delicate wash cycle. Follow these steps on how to wash a swimsuit properly.

1. FLIP SWIMSUIT INSIDE OUT AND PLACE IN A MESH BAG

Begin by flipping your swimsuit inside out and placing it in a mesh bag. This can help prevent snagging and also help protect any clasps, ties or decorations.

2. SELECT A LOW SPIN, DELICATE CYCLE

Swimsuits should be washed in a low spin, delicate cycle using cool or warm water and detergent.

3. DRY YOUR SWIMSUIT

Lay your swimsuit on a clean towel before rolling the towel up to help squeeze and absorb moisture from your swimsuit. Then, lay it flat to dry. You can also hang your swimsuit on a drying rack.

HOW DO YOU HAND WASH A SWIMSUIT?

Hand washing a swimsuit can help keep its shape and help prevent stretching. Use lukewarm water and detergent in a sink or bucket of water to rinse out your swimsuit, then lay it flat or hang to dry.

1. FILL A SINK OR BUCKET WITH WATER AND DETERGENT 

Fill a sink or bucket with lukewarm water and one teaspoon of gentle detergent. One teaspoon of detergent should be enough to clean one swimsuit.

2. FLIP SWIMSUIT INSIDE OUT AND SCRUB AT STAINS

Flip your swimsuit inside out. Then, gently scrub at any stains using a soft brush. Scrubbing the inside might help keep your swimsuit looking newer, longer—depending on the type of fabric and the severity of the stain.

3. SWISH AND SQUEEZE YOUR SWIMSUIT

Swish your swimsuit through the soapy water several times, while squeezing the fabric. Then, empty your sink or bucket.

4. RINSE YOUR SWIMSUIT

Refill your sink or bucket with cool, clean water. Avoid wringing your swimsuit and gently squeeze out the water instead.

5. DRY YOUR SWIMSUIT

Roll your swimsuit in a towel to help absorb any excess water before laying it flat to dry. Or, hang your swimsuit up to dry, avoiding direct sunlight to help prevent fading.

TIPS FOR WASHING SWIMSUITS, BIKINIS AND SWIM TRUNKS

Here are more tips on how to wash swimsuits, plus general laundry tips and tricks.

• USE A MESH BAG: Mesh bags can help keep delicate swimsuits intact in the washing machine and help prevent any snagging or stretching.

• USE BAKING SODA TO HELP REFRESH YOUR SWIMSUIT: Soak your swimsuit in a tub or sink full of cold water mixed with a half cup of baking soda to help brighten your swimsuit and remove odors.

• USE A FAN TO SPEED UP DRYING: If you hang your swimsuit to dry, try using a fan to help speed up the drying process and improve air circulation.

WHAT’S THE BEST DETERGENT FOR SWIMSUITS?

Use a mild detergent to wash swimsuits. You can also use white vinegar to pre-treat stains, as long as you rinse out items before adding them to the washing machine. Never add vinegar directly to your washing machine. While vinegar can be helpful in treating stains and odors, it may potentially damage your machine.

Try using a detergent like Swash^® Laundry Detergent¹ for a variety of scented and unscented detergents.

CAN BATHING SUITS GO IN THE DRYER?

Avoid putting bathing suits in the dryer, as the heat can reduce elasticity and weaken the fabric. If you hang your swimsuit up to dry, avoid direct sunlight to help prevent fading. As noted above, you can use a towel to absorb any excess water before laying the swimsuit flat or hanging it to dry.