How to Clean Bathing Suits & Make Them Last Longer

A great swimsuit is an investment—and one you want to keep looking new all summer long. But chlorine, saltwater, sunscreen, and even the way you dry your bathing suit can shorten its life. Here’s how to properly care for swimwear so it lasts beyond one season.

Most swimsuits are made from spandex, lycra, or other stretch fabrics. These materials give swimsuits their fit and flexibility, but they’re also delicate. Sun exposure, pool chemicals, hot tubs, and even harsh detergents can break down the fibers, leaving your suit faded or sagging.

💡 Tip: Avoid frequent dips in hot tubs if you want your bathing suit to last.

Skip the washing machine—swimwear should always be hand-washed.

• Use cool water, never hot.
• Choose a mild soap designed for delicate fabrics.
• Rinse thoroughly to remove sunscreen, oils, and chlorine.

This keeps the spandex intact and helps your suit hold its shape.

Never wring out a swimsuit or toss it in the dryer. Both can damage the fabric.

• Do not twist or wring – it weakens fibers.
• Avoid direct sun – UV rays fade colors quickly.
• Lay flat on a towel – the safest way to air dry.

Want to keep colors vibrant? Before wearing a new swimsuit, soak it for 30 minutes in a mix of cool water and a tablespoon of vinegar. This helps lock in dyes and prevents bleeding—especially important before wearing in a hot tub.

Stretch fabrics need recovery time. Give your swimsuit at least 24 hours between wears so the elastic fibers can snap back into place. If you’re on vacation or swimming daily, bring multiple bathing suits and rotate them.

Taking proper care of swimwear at home will extend its life—but for stubborn stains, discoloration, or delicate designer suits, professional cleaning is the safest choice.

At Bibbentuckers Dry Cleaning in Dallas–Fort Worth, our experts know how to treat delicate fabrics with care, helping you keep your swimwear looking its best.

👉 Learn more about our specialty garment cleaning services.