Quick Answer
To keep your bodysuit looking new, always hand wash it in cold water with a gentle detergent, never wring or twist the fabric, and lay it flat to dry away from direct sunlight. Store it folded in a drawer or on a padded hanger to preserve its shape and delicate details.
Bodysuits are a versatile staple, but their delicate fabrics and intricate details require special attention. Whether you own a sheer tulle piece or one with custom embroidery, proper care ensures it stays beautiful and lasts longer.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to wash, dry, and store your bodysuit, helping you avoid common mistakes that can ruin its fit and fabric.
Understanding Your Bodysuit's Fabric
Bodysuits often come in delicate materials like lace, mesh, or microfiber, each with its own care needs. For example, a bodysuit made of sheer tulle requires gentle handling to prevent snags, while a microfiber piece may be more forgiving but still needs cold water to maintain elasticity.
Before washing, always check the care label for specific instructions. If the label is missing or unclear, err on the side of caution: hand wash in cold water and avoid harsh detergents or bleach.
- When in doubt, treat all bodysuits as delicate items.
- Never use fabric softeners, as they can break down elastic fibers.
Pre-Treatment and Stain Removal
For stains, spot-treat before washing. Use a gentle stain remover or a drop of mild detergent directly on the stain, then gently dab with a soft cloth. Avoid rubbing, which can damage the fabric or push the stain deeper.
Pay extra attention to areas like the underarms and neckline, where sweat and oils accumulate. A quick pre-treatment can prevent set-in stains and keep your bodysuit looking fresh.
Washing Your Bodysuit by Hand
Hand washing is the safest method for most bodysuits. Fill a basin with cold water and add a small amount of gentle detergent designed for delicates. Submerge the bodysuit and gently swish it for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cold water.
Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric, as this can distort its shape. Instead, press the water out gently or roll the bodysuit in a clean towel to absorb excess moisture.
Machine Washing: When and How
If you must use a washing machine, place the bodysuit in a mesh laundry bag and select the delicate or hand-wash cycle. Use cold water and a mild detergent, and never mix with heavy items like jeans that can cause friction.
Skip the spin cycle or use the lowest setting to reduce stress on the fabric. Always air dry, never tumble dry, as heat can shrink or damage elastic.
Drying and Storing Your Bodysuit
Lay the bodysuit flat on a clean, dry towel and reshape it to its original form. Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources, which can fade colors and weaken fibers. Allow it to air dry completely before storing.
For storage, fold the bodysuit gently and place it in a drawer or on a shelf. Avoid hanging it by the straps, as this can stretch them over time. If you prefer to hang, use a padded hanger and drape the bodysuit over the bar to distribute weight evenly.
Step-by-Step Bodysuit Care Routine
- Check the care label: Read the care label for specific instructions. If it says hand wash only, follow that. For items with unknown fabric content, treat as delicate. Knowing your fabric is the first step to proper care.
- Pre-treat any stains: Apply a gentle stain remover or mild detergent to spots, then dab gently. Avoid rubbing to prevent damage. Quick action prevents set-in stains.
- Hand wash in cold water: Fill a basin with cold water and a gentle detergent. Submerge and swish gently, then rinse thoroughly. Never wring or twist. Hand washing is the safest method for delicate fabrics.
- Dry flat and reshape: Lay the bodysuit on a clean towel, reshape it, and let it air dry away from sunlight and heat. Do not tumble dry. Proper drying prevents shrinkage and distortion.
- Store folded or on a padded hanger: Fold and place in a drawer, or hang on a padded hanger by draping over the bar to avoid stretching straps. Good storage keeps your bodysuit ready to wear.
Product-Specific Care Considerations
- Medusa Bodysuit - Oxblood - Available in Multiple Nudes - FINAL SALE: This sheer tulle bodysuit features a ribbon halter-tie and iconic serpentine embroidery, with no snaps at the gusset. The delicate tulle and embroidery require extra gentle hand washing to prevent snags, and the lack of snaps means you should avoid any pulling that could stress the fabric.
- Psyche Bra: This underwire bra top features custom T&S appliqué design, raglan sleeves, interlocking closure at center back, and adjustable straps. The interlocking closure and adjustable straps benefit from careful washing to maintain their function, and the appliqué needs gentle handling to avoid damage.
- Demeter Bikini: This panty is made of metallic lace and microfiber with custom T&S metallic lace detailing and mesh cutouts. Metallic lace can tarnish or lose its sheen if exposed to harsh detergents or heat, so hand washing in cold water is essential to preserve its gilded look.
Caring for your bodysuit doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these simple steps, you can keep your delicate pieces looking new and extend their lifespan. Remember, a little extra attention goes a long way in preserving the beauty and fit of your favorite bodysuits.
