How to Care for Designer Swimwear: Washing and Storage Guide
Good swimwear care starts with the garment’s care label. Fiber, lining, dye, elastic, padding, hardware, and embellishments vary, so no single washing method is right for every swimsuit. Use this guide as a checklist, then follow the product-specific instructions first.
After Swimming
Remove the swimsuit when practical and check its care instructions. If rinsing is permitted, use the temperature and method recommended by the manufacturer. Do not leave wet swimwear sealed in a bag longer than necessary.
Protect It During Wear
Rough pool edges, concrete, wood, Velcro, and jewelry can snag fabric or embellishments. Sit on a clean towel and handle appliqués, hardware, and textured surfaces carefully. Sunscreen and body products may also affect some fabrics and finishes.
Follow the Washing Label
Do not assume hand washing, machine washing, soaking, or a particular detergent is universally safe. Use only the method, water temperature, and products allowed on the care label. Close hooks or ties as directed and avoid washing delicate pieces with snag-prone items.
Avoid Unverified Home Remedies
Vinegar, dish soap, makeup remover, stain remover, fabric softener, bleach, and fabric protector can affect color, elastic, finishes, or embellishments. Do not apply them unless the manufacturer specifically permits the treatment.
Handle Stains Carefully
Act promptly, but do not scrub or improvise. Blot only if appropriate, review the care label, and contact the brand or a qualified cleaner for guidance. Test any approved treatment in an inconspicuous area first.
Dry According to Instructions
Heat, direct sun, hanging, wringing, and twisting may damage some garments, but drying directions differ. Reshape gently and use the method stated on the label. Make sure the swimsuit is fully dry before storage.
Allow for Lining and Padding
Fully lined suits, molded cups, removable pads, and structured panels may take longer to dry. Our swimsuit lining guide explains how inner construction affects feel and drying.
Care for Embellishments
Beads, sequins, flowers, embroidery, metallic finishes, and hardware may need special handling. Avoid folding heavy embellishments into delicate fabric and keep pieces from rubbing against one another in storage.
Store Clean and Completely Dry
Choose a clean, dry place away from direct light, heat, and moisture. Avoid sharp folds through molded cups or decorative details. Do not store damp swimwear in plastic or a closed travel pouch.
Travel With a Wet Bag, Temporarily
A wet bag can protect other belongings during transport, but it is not long-term storage. Remove the swimsuit promptly, follow its care directions, and let it dry fully.
Rotate Swimwear When Possible
On trips with frequent swimming, bringing more than one suit gives each garment time to dry. Explore designer one-piece swimsuits and designer bikini sets for different plans and styling needs.
Inspect Before Wearing
Check seams, elastic, straps, closures, lining, and embellishments. Stop wearing a garment if a loose component or damaged closure could create a safety or coverage issue.
Ask Before Professional Cleaning
Professional cleaning is not automatically safe for swimwear. Confirm that the care label allows it and tell the cleaner about the complete fiber content, lining, padding, dye, and embellishments.
Understand the Fabric
Our swimwear fabric guide explains why similar-looking blends may require different handling. Care cannot guarantee a garment will look new indefinitely, but following its instructions helps avoid preventable damage.
Quick Care Checklist
- Read the care label before washing.
- Keep wet swimwear out of closed bags.
- Avoid rough surfaces and snagging accessories.
- Use only approved cleaning products.
- Follow the stated drying method.
- Store the garment clean and fully dry.
- Inspect seams, elastic, and closures regularly.