Quick Answer
To keep your bikinis and swim shorts in top shape, rinse them in cold water after every wear, wash them gently by hand with a mild detergent, and lay them flat to dry away from direct sunlight.
Why swimwear needs special care
Swimwear fabrics are delicate. Chlorine, salt, sand, and sunscreen can break down elastic and fade colors over time. Proper care helps your pieces maintain their fit and vibrant patterns, so you can enjoy them for many seasons.
Different materials may require slightly different handling, but the following steps work for most bikinis and swim shorts. Always check the care label first for any specific instructions.
The trade-off: hand washing vs. machine washing
Hand washing is the gentlest method and is recommended for most swimwear. It gives you control over water temperature and agitation, reducing stress on delicate fabrics and embellishments.
If you must use a washing machine, choose a cold, delicate cycle and place your swimwear in a mesh laundry bag. However, even with these precautions, machine washing can cause faster wear, so reserve it for sturdy pieces or when you're short on time.
Step-by-step swimwear care routine
- Rinse immediately after wearing: After a swim, rinse your bikini or swim shorts in cold running water to remove chlorine, salt, sand, and sunscreen. This prevents these elements from breaking down the fabric fibers. Don't let swimwear sit in a damp bag—rinse as soon as possible.
- Hand wash with mild detergent: Fill a basin with cold water and add a small amount of mild detergent (one designed for delicates or swimwear). Submerge the garment and gently swish it for a few minutes. Avoid scrubbing or twisting. Rinse thoroughly in cold water until no soap remains. Never use hot water or bleach, as they can damage elastic and fade colors.
- Press out excess water: Lay the garment on a clean towel and roll it up to absorb excess water. Press gently—do not wring or twist, as this can misshape the fabric and damage details like ruffles or shirring. Squeezing or wringing is a common mistake that ruins the fit.
- Dry flat in the shade: Place the swimwear flat on a dry towel in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Avoid hanging, as the weight of water can stretch the fabric. Keep it out of direct sunlight, which can fade colors and weaken fibers. Never use a dryer—high heat destroys elasticity.
- Store properly: Once completely dry, store your bikinis and swim shorts in a cool, dry place. Avoid folding them tightly or placing heavy items on top, which can cause creases and distort the shape. For delicate pieces, consider storing them in a drawer with dividers. Proper storage prevents unnecessary wear between wears.
Products mentioned in this guide
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Gingham Swim Short — Blue: The Gingham Swim Short in blue is a high-waisted swim bottom with a functional removable belt and a shirred cheeky back panty. The removable belt and shirred back require gentle handling to maintain their shape and function, so hand washing is especially important.
Gingham Swim Short — Blue
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Alison High Waisted Bikini Bottom — Red: The Alison High Waisted Bikini Bottom in red features two layers of ruffles and a cheeky coverage. Ruffles can lose their crispness if twisted or wrung, so lay flat to dry to keep them looking perky.
Alison High Waisted Bikini Bottom — Red
