Dive into Summer: Essential Tips for Caring for Your Swimwear

As the sun shines brighter and the temperature rises, it’s time to embrace the joy of summer and spend more time basking in the water. Whether you’re planning to lounge by the poolside, hit the beach, or indulge in water sports, your swimwear is your trusted companion throughout the season. To ensure its longevity and vibrant appearance, it’s crucial to give your swimwear some extra TLC. Shores Fine Dry Cleaning has a few pointers on how to care for your swimwear, keeping it in pristine condition for many summers to come.

1. Rinse after Every Use:

After a refreshing swim, always remember to rinse your swimwear with cold water. This simple step helps remove chlorine, saltwater, sand, and other impurities that can damage the fabric and cause discoloration over time. Gentle handwashing is preferable, but if you’re short on time, a quick rinse in the shower will suffice until you can give it a proper wash.

2. Avoid Excessive Sun Exposure:

While sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D and adds to the blissful summer ambiance, excessive exposure can be harmful to your swimwear. Prolonged exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause colors to fade and degrade the fabric’s elasticity. When not in the water, consider covering up with a light wrap or beach cover-up to protect your swimwear from direct sunlight.

3. Handwashing is Key:

Swimwear is delicate and requires gentle treatment to maintain its shape and color vibrancy. Avoid machine washing, as the agitation can cause the fabric to stretch or tear. Instead, opt for handwashing in lukewarm water using a mild detergent. Gently swirl the swimwear in the soapy water, paying special attention to areas with sunscreen residue or stains. Rinse thoroughly to ensure no detergent remains, as it can damage the fabric and irritate your skin.

4. Say No to Harsh Chemicals:

When caring for your swimwear, avoid harsh chemicals such as bleach, fabric softeners, and strong detergents. These substances can deteriorate the elasticity and compromise the fabric’s colorfastness. Instead, choose a mild detergent specifically designed for delicate garments or opt for a gentle soap formulated for swimwear.

5. Dry with Care:

After washing, gently squeeze out excess water from your swimwear without wringing or twisting it. Lay the swimwear flat on a clean towel and roll it up, applying light pressure to absorb the remaining moisture. Avoid hanging your swimwear to dry, as it can stretch out the fabric. Furthermore, keep your swimwear away from direct heat sources, such as radiators or sunlight, as excessive heat can cause shrinkage and fading.

6. Handle with Care:

To prevent snags or pulls, be mindful of rough surfaces, such as pool edges or rough concrete. Sitting or lounging on textured surfaces can cause damage to the delicate fabric of your swimwear. Additionally, avoid contact with rough jewelry or Velcro straps that can catch and pull the threads.

7. Rotate Your Swimwear:

If you’re a frequent swimmer or planning an extended beach vacation, it’s wise to have multiple sets of swimwear to rotate. Frequent use can accelerate wear and tear, so alternating between different suits allows each one to rest and regain its shape and elasticity. Plus, it’s always fun to have a variety of styles to choose from!

Of course, Shores is always here to answer any of your summer wear questions.  If you have questions or if you need help, feel free to contact us or drop by one of our three convenient locations.