You did it. You went to a specialty retailer and found the perfect shorts to fit your body type. Tall length shorts with the length you need. Or maybe a shorter pair if you're shopping for men under 5'9" Investing in quality swimwear means more fun and less worry about wear and tear. Whether you're a swimmer, surfer, boater, or just love lounging by the beach, proper care can extend the life of your favorite trunks, board shorts, swim briefs, hybrid shorts, and those comfy shorts with 4-way stretch.
In this post, we'll cover essential tips to keep your swimwear looking fresh and feeling great.
1. Rinse Immediately After Use
Why It Matters
Salt, chlorine, and sand can cause significant damage to swimwear fabrics. They weaken the fibers and fade the vibrant colors that make your swimwear stand out.
How to Do It
After a day at the beach or pool, rinse your swimwear under cold tap water immediately. This quick action helps remove harmful residues before they set in.
2. Hand Wash with Mild Detergent
Why It Matters
Preserving the elasticity and color of your swimwear is crucial for maintaining comfort and appearance. Machine washing can be too harsh, leading to shrinkage and fading over time.
How to Do It
- Fill a sink or basin with cold water.
- Add a small amount of mild detergent.
- Gently swish your swimwear in the water, focusing on areas with sunscreen or sweat buildup.
- Rinse thoroughly with cold water until all detergent is removed.
3. Avoid Machine Washing and Drying
Why It Matters
High temperatures from washing machines and dryers can cause swimwear to lose shape, shrink, and become less durable.
Alternative Solutions
- Stick to hand washing as described above.
- If you must use a machine, place your swimwear in a mesh laundry bag and choose the gentlest cycle with cold water. Avoid the dryer altogether—opt for air drying instead.
4. Skip the Wringing
Why It Matters
Wringing or twisting your swimwear to remove excess water can distort its shape and stretch out the fabric.
How to Do It
- Lay your swimwear flat on a clean, dry towel.
- Gently roll the towel, pressing lightly to absorb the moisture. Repeat with a second towel if necessary.
5. Store Flat
Why It Matters
Storing your swimwear flat helps maintain its shape and prevents unnecessary stretching.
How to Do It
- After drying, lay your swimwear flat on a shelf or in a drawer.
- Avoid hanging it on a hook, as this can stretch the fabric over time.
6. Be Cautious with Sunscreen
Why It Matters
While essential for skin protection, sunscreen can stain and weaken swimwear fabric if not washed off properly. It can also yellow or stain some lighter colored fabrics.
How to Do It
- Apply sunscreen and allow it to fully absorb into your skin before putting on your swimwear.
- Rinse your swimwear immediately after use to remove any residual sunscreen.
By following these simple yet effective tips, you can ensure that your trunks, board shorts, swim briefs, hybrid shorts, and 4-way stretch shorts remain in top condition for many seasons to come.
Remember, proper care isn't just about prolonging the life of your swimwear; it's also about maintaining comfort, style, and performance. Enjoy your time in the water, knowing your gear is up to the task!
Got more swimwear care tips? Share them with us in the comments below!
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Happy swimming! 🏊♂️🏄♂️🏖️