Quick Answer
Rinse your bikini in cold water immediately after each wear, hand wash with a mild detergent, and lay flat to dry away from direct sunlight. This routine prevents chlorine, salt, and UV damage.
Why Swimwear Needs Special Care
Swimwear fabrics—especially those with spandex or elastane—are sensitive to chlorine, salt, heat, and friction. Harsh chemicals and high temperatures can break down elastic fibers, causing sagging or fading. Vintage or limited-edition pieces, like the In Heroes We Trust x Clare Bare Eventide String Bikini Bottom made from precious vintage fabric, require even gentler handling to preserve their unique prints and structure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Swimwear Care
How often should I wash my bikini?
Rinse it in cold fresh water after every wear, even if you didn't swim in a pool or ocean. Chlorine and salt residue can degrade fibers over time. Give it a full hand wash with a mild detergent after every 2–3 wears, or sooner if it got heavily soiled.
Can I machine wash my swimsuit?
It's best to avoid the washing machine. The agitation can stretch elastic and damage delicate fabrics. If you must use a machine, place the bikini in a mesh laundry bag, select the delicate cycle with cold water, and skip the spin cycle. Even then, hand washing is safer for longevity. Hand washing is the most reliable method to protect elastic and fabric.
How should I dry my bikini?
Lay the bikini flat on a clean towel, reshape it gently, and let it air dry away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Never wring or twist the fabric, and never put it in a dryer—heat destroys elasticity. Drying in the shade also prevents color fading.
What detergent should I use for swimwear?
Use a mild, pH-neutral detergent that is free of bleach, fabric softeners, and enzymes. Baby shampoo or a specialized delicates wash works well. Avoid regular laundry detergents, which can strip color and break down spandex. Skip fabric softener—it coats fibers and reduces stretch recovery.
How do I remove chlorine or salt smell?
After rinsing, soak the bikini in a mixture of cold water and a small amount of white vinegar (about 1 tablespoon per quart of water) for 15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with cold water afterward. The vinegar neutralizes odors without damaging the fabric.
Can I wear my bikini in a hot tub?
Hot tubs are harsh on swimwear because heat and chemicals accelerate elastic breakdown. If you do wear your bikini in a hot tub, rinse it immediately afterward in cold water and wash it as soon as possible. Limit exposure to extend the life of the fabric. Frequent hot tub use can significantly shorten swimwear lifespan.
How should I store my bikini between wears?
Make sure the bikini is completely dry before storing. Fold it loosely and place it in a drawer or on a shelf away from direct light. Avoid hanging it by the straps, as the weight can stretch them over time. A breathable cotton bag is ideal for travel. Store dry, folded, and out of sunlight to prevent fading and stretching.
Product Spotlight
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In Heroes We Trust x Clare Bare Eventide String Bikini Bottom in Multicolor Floral: This style is part of an ongoing collaboration between Clare Herron of Clare Bare and Neely Shearer of In Heroes We Trust, made from Neely's precious vintage fabric collection. Many pieces are one of a kind and available made to order in your size in very limited quantities. Because the fabric is vintage and often one of a kind, following proper swimwear care—especially avoiding harsh detergents and machine drying—helps preserve the print and fit for as long as possible.
In Heroes We Trust x Clare Bare Eventide String Bikini Bottom in Multicolor Floral
