packing tips ·

How to Care for Your Swimsuit So It Lasts for Years

A high-quality swimsuit is an investment in style, comfort, and sustainability—and like any investment, it requires proper care to make it last. While Wild Isles swimwear is built to withstand movement, sun, and water, following the right care routine will help preserve its shape, color, and fabric integrity for seasons to come.

Most people unknowingly damage their swimsuits with improper washing, drying, and storage. If you want to keep your swimsuit looking and feeling brand new, follow these simple steps to extend its lifespan and reduce waste.

Why Proper Swimwear Care Matters

🌊 Protects Fabric Integrity – Chlorine, saltwater, and sunscreen can break down fibers over time. Proper care prevents fading, stretching, and pilling.

💙 Saves Money & Reduces Waste – Instead of constantly replacing worn-out suits, proper care ensures your swimsuit lasts multiple seasons, reducing textile waste.

🏖 Maintains Fit & Support – Compression fabrics and stretch materials can lose elasticity if not handled correctly. Proper washing helps your swimsuit retain its shape and fit.

☀ Preserves Vibrant Colors & Prints – Heat, chemicals, and sunlight can cause color fading. Taking the right precautions keeps your swimsuit looking fresh.

Now that you know why proper care is important, let’s dive into how to clean, store, and maintain your swimsuit for years of wear.

1. Rinse Immediately After Every Wear

💦 Why?
Saltwater, chlorine, sweat, and sunscreen leave residue that can break down the fabric and cause fading.

🚿 What to Do:

  • As soon as you take off your swimsuit, rinse it in cold, clean water (preferably fresh water, not pool water).
  • If you don’t have access to a sink or shower, store your suit in a wet bag and rinse it as soon as you get home.
  • Avoid soaking your suit for too long—this can weaken the fabric over time.

2. Hand Wash with Gentle Detergent

🧼 Why?
Regular laundry detergents are too harsh for delicate swimwear fabrics and can cause deterioration.

✅ Best Practices:

  • Hand wash your swimsuit in cool water with a mild detergent (look for ones labeled “delicate” or “swimwear safe”).
  • Avoid wringing or twisting the suit—this can damage the elastic fibers.
  • Let it soak for 5-10 minutes, then gently rub areas with residue before rinsing.

🚫 What to Avoid:

  • No bleach or fabric softener – these break down fibers.
  • No washing machines – even on delicate settings, they can stretch and weaken the fabric.

🌱 Pro Tip: Use a plant-based, eco-friendly detergent to protect both your suit and the planet!

3. Lay Flat to Dry (NEVER Use a Dryer!)

🌞 Why?
High heat destroys elasticity and causes shrinkage or fading.

✅ How to Dry Properly:

  • Lay your swimsuit flat on a towel in a shaded area to air dry.
  • Flip it over halfway through drying so both sides dry evenly.
  • If you need to speed up drying, gently press the water out with a towel (don’t wring it!).

🚫 What to Avoid:

  • No direct sunlight – UV rays fade colors and weaken fabric.
  • No hanging your swimsuit – Water weight can stretch it out, especially straps.
  • No dryers or heated drying racks – Heat destroys elasticity.

🌿 Pro Tip: If you’re traveling and need to dry quickly, roll your suit in a towel and press gently to absorb excess water before laying it flat.

4. Rotate Your Swimsuits (Don’t Wear the Same One Back-to-Back!)

👙 Why?
The elastic fibers in swimwear need time to recover between wears.

✅ Best Practice:

  • Rotate between at least two swimsuits to allow each one to fully dry and regain its shape.
  • If you wear the same swimsuit multiple days in a row, the fibers may stretch out faster.

🚫 What to Avoid:

  • Wearing a wet swimsuit – Not only is it uncomfortable, but it can lead to fit distortion over time.

🌊 Pro Tip: Having a mix of staple pieces and limited-edition prints allows for rotation while keeping your beachwear fresh and fun!

5. Store Your Swimsuit Properly

🗂 Why?
Stuffing your suit into a drawer creates creases and fabric stress.

✅ How to Store Your Suit:

  • Once completely dry, fold it gently and place it in a breathable fabric bag or drawer.
  • Store in a cool, dry place—excess heat (like leaving it in your car) can weaken fibers.

🚫 What to Avoid:

  • No plastic bags – Traps moisture, which can lead to mildew and odors.
  • No cramming into tight spaces – Can cause misshaping and creases.

🌴 Pro Tip: If storing for the off-season, keep it away from direct heat and humidity to maintain fabric integrity.

6. Be Mindful of Sunscreen & Oils

☀ Why?
Many sunscreens contain chemicals and oils that can stain, weaken, or discolor swimwear fabric.

✅ How to Protect Your Suit:

  • Apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before putting on your swimsuit to let it absorb fully.
  • Opt for reef-safe, mineral-based sunscreens, which are gentler on fabrics and the environment.
  • Avoid sitting directly on rough surfaces like pool decks—use a towel to prevent fabric snags.

🚫 What to Avoid:

  • Oily sunscreens and tanning oils—they can cling to fabric and be hard to wash out.

Final Thoughts: Love Your Swimsuit, and It Will Love You Back!

Caring for your swimsuit isn’t just about preserving its beauty—it’s about getting the most out of your investment while reducing waste and protecting the environment.

At Wild Isles, we design swimwear that’s built to last—but the way you care for it makes all the difference.

🌊 Follow these tips, and your swimsuit will stay in perfect shape for years to come.

Ready for a Swimsuit That Lasts?

If you’re looking for a high-quality, sustainable swimsuit that’s designed for real women and real life, Wild Isles is for you.

💙 Shop our latest collection and experience swimwear that’s made to last.

The Wild Wave