We all know the feeling. It’s been a long winter, but it’s finally the day. You pull open the swimsuit drawer, pick out your favorite bikini, slip it on … and the elastic has stretched. Here’s some tips that will keep your suits fresh and fit for years!
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Apply, dry, then put on the suit!
Lotions, sunscreens, body oils can all lead to stains, discoloration, and damage to the elasticity. Wait about 15 to 30 minutes after application before putting on your suit, that way the product is absorbed by your skin instead of the suit!
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Watch where you sit! If you can help it, try to sit on soft surfaces and avoid abrasive materials like concrete or brick, which could lead to piling. Put a towel down or wrap a sarong around your waist before you take a seat to be safe!
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Before you put your suit away, make sure to give it a deep clean!
In cold water, rinse out all the chlorine, saltwater, and sand from the day. You can use a gentle detergent, white vinegar, or look for products specifically made for bathing suits - our favorite is called Suit Solutions!
- NEVER put your bathing suit in the washing machine or dryer!
The rule of thumb(s) is to hand wash and air dry only! Regular laundry detergents are too abrasive, which fade a suit’s color and breaks down the elastic. Washer machines are too powerful, and dryers get too hot, both of which wear them down even more. To dry, lay your suit on a towel in a well-ventilated area, rotating them periodically. Make sure not to dry the suits in the sun, and that they are completely dry before putting them away.
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Be gentle with your suit!
Don’t wring out your suits, leave them out in the sun, hang or drape them, or store them wrapped in a bunch. The best way to store them is layed flat - even better in a fabric garment bag! Try not to keep them in a plastic bag, as these can trap moisture and cause mildew growth, bad odor, and damage the fabric.
- Keep a rotation!
The elastic nature of a swimsuit requires at least 24 hours to return to their original form. If you wear the same suit too often, it will stretch out without the chance to snap back. Keep a few of your favorite suits on hand so you can give each suit a break. -
Vacuum-seal it up for long storage!
If you know you’ll be putting your suit away for an extended period, try to store them in a vacuum-seal bag, pressing out as much of the air as you can. Make sure to store them in a temperature and humidity controlled environment, and avoid stacking other products on top of them!
Follow these tips and you're sure to have a bikini that lasts with you through many seasons to come!