Swimwear Care & Longevity

• Swimwear may release excess dye at first washing: take care to wash each new piece separately.
• After each wear, hand-wash immediately in cold water using a gentle cleaner to remove saltwater, chlorine, sunscreen and oils.
• Rinse well.
• Roll in a towel, pressing gently to remove water. Never wring.
• Lay flat to dry, avoiding direct sunlight.

• Hand-washing is key to preserving the life of your suit: never put your swimsuit in the washer or dryer.
• Take care to sit on a towel to avoid pilling on rough surfaces.
• Avoid extended exposure to hot tubs, which can degrade lycra.

Yes. Chlorine can break down lycra fibers over time, which is why it's important to rinse your suit in cold water immediately after wear. Hot tubs can intensify damage because heat accelerates chemical breakdown. Even with excellent care, prolonged exposure to highly chlorinated water—especially when hot—can lead to fading and reduced stretch recovery.

Not necessarily. Swimsuits are wear-tested to industry standards for typical chlorine exposure, but no swim fabric is impervious to extended wear in high chlorine. Rinsing in cold water immediately after wear is important to protecting a suit, but elevated chemical levels—especially in a hot tub—can still cause fading over time.

Loss of stretch and fading typically come from repeated exposure to chlorine, salt residue, sunscreen and oils, and heat (including hot tubs and dryers). Chlorine can break down lycra, which reduces stretch recovery. It's equally important to use a gentle cleaner designed for swimwear. Some household detergents—including products such as Woolite—can degrade lycra and elastic fibers, accelerating wear. Everything But Water offers a proprietary swimwear cleaner specially formulated for swim fabrics, including a protective element designed to help guard against fiber damage and prolong the life of your suit.

Saltwater can contribute to fabric wear over time if salt residue remains in the fibers. Rinse immediately after swimming (use an outdoor shower if available), then hand-wash in cold water with a gentle swimwear-safe cleanser. Dry flat, away from direct sunlight, to help preserve color and stretch.

Yes. Some sunscreens and body oils can stain or discolor swim fabrics, especially in lighter colors. To help prevent staining: allow sunscreen to absorb before putting on your suit, rinse promptly after wear, and hand-wash gently in cold water with a swimwear-safe cleanser. Proper care goes a long way toward keeping a suit looking and smelling fresh for seasons to come.

With proper care, a high-quality swimsuit should last for years. Over time, the elements can cause fading or gradual breakdown of lycra, but consistent rinsing, gentle cleansing, and flat drying out of the sun dramatically extend longevity.