[That feeling of finding the perfect swimsuit is pure summer magic. It fits just right, the color makes you happy, and you can already picture yourself lounging by the pool or diving into a wave. But that magic can fade quickly when last year’s favorite suit comes out of storage looking stretched, faded, or pilled. Swimwear is made from delicate, high-tech fabrics, and replacing it every season is not only a drain on your wallet but also contributes to textile waste. The good news? With a little bit of know-how, you can dramatically extend the life of your swimwear. As renters, we know that small, consistent actions are key to a sustainable lifestyle. Caring for your clothes properly is one of the most impactful (and budget-friendly!) habits you can build. Your Post-Swim Mission: Rinse Immediately If you only take one piece of advice from this article, let it be this: rinse your swimsuit in cool, fresh water as soon as you take it off. Seriously. This is the single most important step in sustainable swimwear care. Chlorine, salt, sand, and sunscreen are the ultimate enemies of spandex and Lycra. These substances are corrosive and will eat away at the delicate fibers, leading to a loss of elasticity and shape. You don’t need a fancy setup for this. If you’re at a pool or beach with a public shower, a quick 30-second rinse (while you’re still wearing it, even!) does the trick. If you’re heading straight home, make it the very first thing you do. A thorough rinse in your bathroom sink or shower before you toss it in the hamper will wash away the worst of the culprits and stop them from doing long-term damage. How to Wash Swimwear Without Wrecking It Please, step away from the washing machine. We know it’s tempting, but the aggressive agitation, high heat, and potential for snagging on zippers or buttons from other clothes are a death sentence for your swimwear’s delicate fabric and structure. Hand-washing is the only way to go, and it’s much quicker and easier than it sounds. Your Gentle Hand-Washing Guide Follow these simple steps after a few wears or at the end of a trip: Fill a basin: Use your bathroom sink or a small bucket (a great multi-purpose item for any rental!). Fill it with cool or lukewarm water. Hot water can damage the elastic fibers. Add a gentle cleanser: A small drop of a pH-neutral, eco-friendly detergent for delicates is perfect. In a pinch, a bit of mild hand soap or even a splash of white vinegar can work to neutralize chlorine and odors. Avoid harsh, heavy-duty detergents. Soak and swish: Submerge your suit and gently swish it through the water. Let it soak for about 30 minutes. This gives the cleanser time to work without you needing to scrub or wring the fabric. Rinse completely: Drain the soapy water and rinse your suit under cool, running water until all the suds are gone. Resist the urge to wring it out forcefully! The Secret to Safe Drying in a Small Space Just like the washing machine, the clothes dryer is another no-go zone. The intense heat will absolutely destroy the elasticity, leaving your suit saggy and misshapen. Air-drying is essential, and you don’t need a sprawling backyard to do it right. First, gently squeeze out the excess water. Don’t twist or wring it. A great trick is to lay the suit flat on a clean, dry towel, roll the towel up like a burrito, and press firmly. This absorbs a huge amount of water without stretching the fabric. Next, find a spot to dry it. The ideal method is to lay the swimsuit flat on a fresh towel or a mesh drying rack. This helps it maintain its shape. If you’re short on floor space, draping it over a shower rod or the back of a chair works well, too. The most important thing is to keep it out of direct sunlight, as UV rays can cause colors to fade and the material to degrade faster. A shady corner of your balcony or a well-ventilated bathroom is a perfect spot. Bonus Tips to Make Your Swimwear Last for Seasons Want to go the extra mile? These pro habits will give your swimwear an even longer, happier life. Sit on a towel. Pool decks, wooden piers, and even sand can be incredibly abrasive. Sitting on a towel or sarong prevents the rough surfaces from snagging and pilling the delicate fabric on your suit. Rotate your suits. If you’re on vacation or are a frequent swimmer, try to bring at least two suits. This allows the elastic in each one a full 24 hours to rest and recover its shape between wears. Beware the hot tub. The combination of high heat and concentrated chemicals in a hot tub is extra harsh on swimwear. Consider designating an older, less-loved suit as your “hot tub suit” to spare your favorites. By making these simple care steps part of your routine, you’re not just saving a swimsuit; you’re saving money, reducing waste, and making a conscious choice for the planet—all from the comfort of your rental home.]
How to Care for Your Swimwear to Make It Last Longer (An Eco-Friendly Guide)
