Quick Answer

To keep your bikini in shape, always rinse it in cold water after wearing, gently squeeze out excess water, and lay it flat to dry away from direct sunlight. Once dry, fold it loosely and store it in a drawer or breathable bag—never hang it by the straps.

Why Storage Matters for Swimwear

Swimwear is made from delicate fabrics like nylon and spandex that can stretch, fade, or lose their elasticity if not stored correctly. Proper storage helps maintain the fit and support that small-chest-specific designs rely on, so your bikini continues to feel secure and look great season after season.

Common storage mistakes include hanging swimwear by the straps, folding it while damp, or leaving it crumpled in a tight drawer. These habits can cause permanent creases, stretched shoulder straps, and misshapen cups—especially in tops with padding or supportive side panels.

Preparing Swimwear for Storage

Before storing, make sure your swimwear is completely dry. Damp fabric can develop mildew and odors, and it can also lose its shape if stored while stretched. After washing, roll the swimwear in a clean towel to absorb excess water, then lay it flat on a drying rack in a shaded, well-ventilated area.

Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric, as this can damage the fibers and distort the padding. For tops with non-removable padding, like the https://louswimemn.com/products/erin-dusty-purple-top-42430700567df71ebdbea3b1-1189295ERIN Top, shaping the cups gently with your hands while drying helps maintain their natural contour.

Choosing the Right Storage Spot

Store swimwear in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. A drawer, shelf, or storage box works well. If you use a drawer, place items loosely and avoid overpacking, which can compress padding and create creases.

For long-term storage, consider using a breathable fabric bag or a cotton pillowcase to protect against dust while allowing air circulation. Avoid plastic bags, which trap moisture and can cause yellowing or mildew.

Step-by-Step Storage Routine

  1. Rinse and wash gently: After each wear, rinse your bikini in cold water to remove salt, chlorine, and sunscreen. Use a mild detergent if needed, and hand-wash with gentle strokes. Checkpoint: Never use hot water or a washing machine—they can weaken the elastic.
  2. Remove excess water without wringing: Press the swimwear between your palms or roll it in a clean towel to absorb water. Avoid twisting or wringing, which can stretch the fabric and misshape the padding. Checkpoint: The towel should absorb most of the moisture before you move to drying.
  3. Dry flat in the shade: Lay the bikini flat on a drying rack or a clean towel in a shaded area. Reshape the cups and straps gently with your hands. Never hang it by the straps, as the weight can stretch them. Checkpoint: Ensure it's completely dry before storing to prevent mildew.
  4. Fold and store loosely: Fold the bikini neatly, placing the top and bottom together. Store in a drawer or breathable bag, keeping it loose to avoid creases. For padded tops, place them with the cups facing up to maintain their shape. Checkpoint: Avoid stacking heavy items on top of your swimwear.

Swimwear That Stores Well

  • ERIN Top: Adjustable shoulder straps for a customised fit and non-removable padding to prevent shifting or bunching. Adjustable straps let you fine-tune the fit after washing, and the fixed padding stays in place during storage and wear, so the top keeps its shape without extra fuss.
  • FIO Bottoms: Seamless finish so no pinching and digging into your skin, double lined with sustainable fabric. The seamless, double-lined construction resists stretching and keeps its shape even after repeated wears and proper storage, making it a reliable choice for long-term use.