"Maintaining bathing suits: keeping Bikini & Co. looking pristine"
Splashin' and Slayin' Outfit Care
Ready for a refreshing dip? Whether you're hitting the beach, the pool, or the lake, remember, your swimwear needs some TLC to keep it looking fabulous! Here are some tips to properly wash and dry your swimsuit whether you're going handcrafted or machine-powered.
Hand Washing for a Fresh Start
According to the Association of Body Care and Laundry Detergents (AISE), the key to a clean swimsuit post-swim is giving it a quick rinse with cold, clear water to wash away chlorine, salt, or sunscreen lingering on the fabric. For a deeper clean, soak your swimsuit in cold water with a touch of mild detergent, either by kneading gently or letting it soak for about 15 minutes. Once done, don't forget to give it a thorough cold water rinse. To dry, avoid sunbathing your suit in direct sunlight - it can lead to nasty fades. A breezy, shady spot is the perfect choice!
Machine-Washing with Correct Care
For those who prefer the washing machine to the old-fashioned hand wash, flip your suit inside-out and pop it in a wash bag (particularly if it has cups or padding). To preserve shape, AISE recommends washing in a gentle cycle set at a maximum of 30°C and a maximum spin speed of 600 rpm. After the wash, shake off excess water and hand it in a shady area to dry—sunlight will hasten wear and tear.
Insights- Proper care for your swimwear means a happier you by extending its lifespan.- To hand wash your swimsuit, gently agitate it in soapy water, rinse multiple times, and let it dry flat after soaking up excess water.- For machine washing, it's best to put it in a mesh bag, choose a gentle wash cycle with colder water, and avoid the dryer.- Avoid direct sunlight when drying to prevent fading.- Keep your washing machine clean after washing swimwear to prevent cross-contamination.
Developing a sustainable lifestyle also includes properly maintaining fashion-and-beauty items like your swimwear. Following the tips for hand washing or machine-washing your swimsuit ensures its longevity, and the home-and-garden aspect comes into play when choosing a shady, breezy spot for drying to prevent fading.
