Quick answer
To keep lace lingerie and swimwear looking its best, always hand wash in cool water with a gentle detergent, then lay flat to dry away from direct heat and sunlight.
Why hand washing beats the machine
Lace and stretch fabrics are more delicate than they look. The agitation of a washing machine can stretch out the mesh, distort the cups, and cause the lace to snag or pill. Hand washing gives you control over the water temperature and the amount of handling, which is why it's the safest method for both lingerie and swimwear.
The same rules apply to swimwear
Swimwear faces chlorine, salt, and sunscreen, which can break down elastane and fade colors. Rinsing your swimsuit in cool water right after wearing it removes these residues before they set. The care steps for lace lingerie—gentle washing, flat drying, and proper storage—work just as well for swimwear, so you can use one routine for both.
Step-by-step lace care routine
- Rinse immediately after wearing: For swimwear, rinse in cool water right after swimming to remove chlorine, salt, and sunscreen. For lingerie, a quick rinse helps remove body oils and sweat before washing. Don't let wet swimwear sit in a bag—rinse and lay flat as soon as you can.
- Hand wash in cool water with gentle detergent: Fill a basin with cool water and add a small amount of mild detergent made for delicates. Submerge the piece and gently swirl it for a few minutes. Avoid scrubbing or twisting the fabric. Never use hot water—it can shrink or distort lace and elastane.
- Rinse thoroughly without wringing: Drain the soapy water and refill with clean cool water. Swish the piece gently until all detergent is gone. Press the water out with your hands instead of wringing, which can break the delicate fibers. Check that the water runs clear—residual detergent can irritate skin and dull colors.
- Roll in a towel to remove excess water: Lay the piece flat on a clean, dry towel and roll it up. Press gently to absorb moisture. This speeds up drying without stressing the fabric. Don't twist or squeeze—rolling is the gentlest way to remove water.
- Dry flat away from heat and sunlight: Place the piece on a dry towel or a drying rack in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Reshape the lace and cups with your hands while it's damp. Never hang lace lingerie or swimwear, as the weight of water can stretch it out. Avoid direct sunlight and radiators—they can fade colors and weaken elastic.
- Store flat or folded, not hung: Once completely dry, fold your lace pieces and store them in a drawer. Hanging stretchy bodies and swimsuits can cause them to lose their shape over time. For extra protection, place each piece in a breathable fabric bag.
Lace pieces that deserve gentle care
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Scantilly Indulgence Multiway Stretch Lace Body Black/Latte: Scantilly Indulgence Multiway Stretch Lace Body features supportive mesh lined cups and a high neck shape for a secure DD+ fit. The supportive mesh lining means you can hand wash confidently without worrying about losing shape, as long as you avoid wringing.
Scantilly Indulgence Multiway Stretch Lace Body Black/Latte
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Scantilly Opulence Multiway Stretch Lace Body Black: Scantilly Opulence Multiway Stretch Lace Body is a lightweight yet supportive one piece with floral stretch lace panels. The delicate stretch lace benefits from cool water and flat drying to keep its elasticity and flattering fit intact.
Scantilly Opulence Multiway Stretch Lace Body Black
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Curvy Kate All Night Lace Plunge Body Denim Blue: Curvy Kate All Night Lace Plunge Body is fully lined with a luxurious, sensual feel in denim blue lace. The full lining helps the body hold its shape, but hand washing still prevents the lace from snagging or fading.
