How to Wash Swimsuits the Right Way: Expert Care

Written by Carmen Rodriguez

How to Wash Swimsuits the Right Way: Expert Care for Long Lasting Swimwear. Swimwear is an investment, not just in style, but in how you feel when you wear it. Whether it's a sculpting bikini top for a big bust or a sleek one piece that hugs every curve, your swimsuit deserves thoughtful care. And the truth is, how you wash your swimwear makes all the difference in how it holds up over time.

At Olivia Paisley Intimates, we craft swimwear with premium materials built to support, lift, and flatter. But even the best fabrics need proper care to maintain their stretch, color, and fit. Here's your expert guide to keeping your swimsuits looking and feeling their best all season long.

Why Swimsuit Care Matters

Swimsuits face some of the toughest conditions of any garment: saltwater, chlorine, UV rays, sunscreen, and sweat, all of which can break down fibers and elasticity if not removed properly. Exposure to pool water and hot tubs can introduce chemicals and heat that are particularly harsh on swimwear fabrics.

Well cared for suits will:

Maintain support and shape (especially important for fuller bust styles)
Resist fading, sagging, and pilling
Last longer and perform better, trip after trip, wash after wash

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Wash Swimsuits Properly

1. Rinse Immediately After Use

As soon as possible after swimming, perform a thorough swimsuit rinse by rinsing your swimsuit in cool, clean water after exposure to pool water, hot tubs, or sand. Rinsing with clean water is essential to remove chlorine, salt, and sand, helping to maintain the fabric's integrity.

Rinsing is especially important after swimming in a hot tub or pool water to remove chemicals and prevent damage to your swimsuit.

Pro Tip: If you’re not near a sink, bring a water bottle to give your suit a quick rinse in your bag until you get home.

2. Hand Wash: Always

The best way to preserve the fabric and color of your swimwear is to hand wash swimsuits, hand wash bathing suits, and practice hand washing swimwear. Avoid the washing machine. Instead, hand wash in a basin with cool or warm water and a gentle detergent, ideally one made for delicates or activewear. Agitate the water gently with your hands, let the suit soak for about 10–15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.

While some suits and swim trunks can be machine washed on a delicate cycle, hand washing is always preferred to maintain their shape and longevity.

For stubborn stains or to remove odors, soak your suit in a solution of half a cup of baking soda dissolved in warm water before washing. This gentle treatment helps brighten, deodorize, and pretreat stains like sunscreen or self-tanner.

After being washed, always rinse your suit thoroughly to remove all detergent and baking soda residue.

If you must machine wash, place your suit in a mesh bag, use the gentle cycle, and avoid high heat to prevent damage.

Avoid: Bleach, fabric softeners, and harsh detergents. They can degrade elastane (spandex) and fade color.

3. Spot Clean When Necessary

Got sunscreen or makeup stains? For stubborn stains, gently apply a paste of baking soda and water to the area, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Use a soft cloth or a clean, non abrasive sponge with a little diluted detergent to gently dab the area. Avoid scrubbing, it can damage the fibers.

4. Dry Flat: Never Wring

Do not wring or twist your swimsuit, it can stretch the fabric and break down the elastic. Instead:

Gently press out excess water between a towel. For best results, use a drying rack to air dry your wet swimsuit and towels efficiently.
Lay flat to dry, away from direct sunlight. Make sure your swimsuit is completely dry before storing to prevent mildew growth.
Avoid drying on hangers (which can cause stretching) or in the dryer. Do not use a tumble dryer, but if you must, select only the air fluff setting with no heat. Good air circulation in the drying area helps prevent moisture buildup and odors.

5. Rotate Your Swimsuits

Give your suits at least 24 hours between wears. This allows the elastic to recover and keeps the fibers strong. If you’re vacationing or swimming regularly, rotate between multiple suits.

Especially for big bust support swimsuits: Letting the elastic fully rest helps preserve lift and structure.

For longer-term storage or between seasons, store swimsuits in a breathable garment bag and ensure air circulation in storage bins to prevent moisture buildup and odors.

Special Care for New Bathing Suits

When you bring home a new bathing suit, a little extra care before the first dip can make all the difference in how it looks and lasts. Brand new swimwear often has manufacturing residues and excess dye that should be removed before wearing. To prep your suit, gently hand wash it in cool water with a mild detergent, this helps set the colors and removes any chemicals left from production. Avoid soaking your new suit for too long, and steer clear of hot water, which can weaken elastic fibers right from the start.

After washing, gently squeeze out excess water (never wring or twist), then lay your bathing suit flat on a clean towel to air dry. Keep it out of direct sunlight during these first few washes to prevent fading and protect those vibrant colors. By giving your new swimsuit this gentle introduction, you’ll help preserve its fit, color, and comfort for many swims to come.

Caring for Sensitive Swimwear Fabrics

Some bathing suits are crafted from especially delicate fabrics, think mesh panels, lace overlays, or intricate embellishments. These swimwear fabrics need a little extra TLC to stay looking their best. Always hand wash sensitive swimwear in lukewarm or cool water with a gentle detergent designed for delicate garments. If you must use a washing machine, place your suit in a mesh laundry bag and select the delicate cycle with cold water to minimize friction and stretching.

After washing, avoid rubbing or wringing your suit. Instead, lay it flat on a clean towel and gently press out any excess moisture. Let your swimsuit air dry flat in a well ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. This careful approach helps maintain the integrity of delicate details and prevents snags, stretching, or fading, so your favorite statement pieces stay stunning season after season.

Common Swimsuit Washing Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make a few missteps when caring for your bathing suits. Here are some of the most common swimsuit washing mistakes and how to avoid them:

Using hot water or harsh detergents: Heat and strong chemicals can break down elastic fibers and fade colors. Always stick to cool or lukewarm water and a mild detergent.
Machine washing without protection: Tossing your suit in the washing machine without a mesh bag can cause snags and stretching. If you must machine wash, use a mesh laundry bag and the delicate cycle.
Wringing or twisting to remove water: This can damage the fabric and elastic. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water and roll your suit in a dry towel.
Tumble drying or drying in direct sunlight: High heat and UV rays can cause fading and weaken the fabric. Air dry your swimsuit flat in a shaded, well ventilated area.
Skipping the rinse after swimming: Chlorine, salt water, and body oils can linger and damage your suit if not rinsed out promptly. Always rinse your suit in clean, cool water as soon as possible after each wear.

By steering clear of these common pitfalls, you’ll help your swimwear maintain its shape, color, and support, so you can enjoy every swim with confidence.

Bonus Tips for Longer Lasting Swimwear

Avoid sitting directly on pool decks or rough surfaces, use a towel to prevent snagging or pilling.
Rinse off before entering a pool to reduce chlorine absorption into the fabric.
Traveling? Store your suit in a breathable mesh bag instead of plastic to avoid mildew and odor.

Caring for Quality: Olivia Paisley Intimates' Commitment

Our swimwear is engineered for performance and elegance, especially for women with curves and big busts who need real support. Proper care helps maintain:

The contouring shape
The feel of the premium fabric
The integrity of under bust bands, straps, and seams

We design every piece to last, but your washing routine is key to keeping it as beautiful as the day you bought it.

Final Thoughts: Gentle Care, Gorgeous Results

A little extra attention goes a long way when it comes to swimwear longevity. By hand washing, drying with care, and rotating your pieces, you'll extend the life of your swimsuit and keep it performing at its best, whether you're poolside, oceanside, or relaxing at home.

Explore Olivia Paisley Swimwear
→ Shop Curve-Friendly Swim Styles
→ Discover Our Big Bust Swim Collection
→ Read More Tips in the Olivia Paisley Care Guide

Because when you invest in quality, care becomes part of the luxury.