Buzz
After swimming in lakes, chlorinated pools, or the ocean, you might be curious about how often your swimsuit truly needs washing. (Short answer: Probably more than you realize.) To save time—and avoid letting it sit forgotten in your laundry pile—you might consider just air-drying it after each use. While this can work occasionally, it’s not always the best approach. Here’s a guide on how often to wash your swimsuits to keep them in great condition.
When to Wash Your Swimsuit After Getting It Wet
A swimsuit worn in the water requires more frequent washing than one used for lounging. Chlorine can lead to fabric damage, color loss, and elastic wear, and may even turn white suits yellow. Although saltwater is less harsh than chlorine, it can still cause colors to fade over time, so washing your suit after every swim is recommended.
If you can’t wash your swimsuit immediately but want to remove harsh chemicals (e.g., if it’s sitting in a gym bag), you can place it in a Ziploc bag filled with lukewarm water for a quick rinse.
Swimming in fresh water, such as lakes, rivers, or non-chlorinated pools (like those filled with a garden hose), means you only need to wash your swimsuit every 3-5 uses.
How Often to Wash Your Swimsuit If It Stays Dry
If your swimsuit doesn’t get wet and is worn briefly, you can wash it less frequently—every 3 to 5 wears, similar to fresh or non-chlorinated water use. However, extended wear changes this. “Wearing a swimsuit out of water for a long time is like wearing underwear,” Dr. Lucky Sekhon, a board-certified OB/GYN, explained to Well + Good. “Sweat and vaginal discharge can accumulate, so it’s essential to clean the suit before reusing it to avoid skin irritation and discomfort.”
Is Hand Washing or Machine Washing Better for Your Swimsuit?
Hand washing your swimsuit in warm water with a gentle detergent is ideal for protecting the fabric and preventing stretching. (Machine washing can be harsh on fibers, straps, and elastic.) Cleaning expert Jolie Kerr told Jezebel that while hand-washing is optimal, “machine washing on a cold cycle is also acceptable. As a realist, I recommend using a mesh laundry bag to prevent tangling and stretching with other clothes.” Always use the delicate cycle and check the label, as some swimwear brands use machine-safe fabrics.
The Best Way to Dry Your Swimsuit
Never put your swimsuit in the dryer, as the heat can damage the fabric and ruin its elasticity. Instead, roll the suit in a dry towel to absorb excess water, avoiding wringing or twisting, which can distort its shape. Then, hang it to air dry.
