How to Store Swimwear Without Ruining It

You spent serious money on a Hunza G one-piece or a Monday Swimwear set. And then you shoved it in a bag still damp from the pool, let it sit for three days, and wondered why the elastic went. Sound familiar? Here is how to actually care for your swimwear.

The Post-Swim Rinse

Rinse your swimwear in cool, fresh water as soon as possible after swimming. Chlorine and salt water are both corrosive to elastane — the longer they sit in the fabric, the faster the stretch and colour degrade. A quick rinse in the hotel sink takes thirty seconds and adds months to the life of your swimwear.

How to Actually Wash It

Hand wash. Always. A gentle delicate wash detergent or even baby shampoo works beautifully. Fill a basin with cool water, add a small amount, gently agitate the fabric with your hands, and rinse thoroughly. Never wring — press the water out gently.

If you absolutely must use a machine (we judge, but we understand), use a mesh laundry bag on the coldest, gentlest cycle. No spin.

Drying: The Rules

Never tumble dry. The heat destroys elastane irreversibly. Lay flat on a towel in the shade. Direct sunlight fades colours, and hanging can stretch the fabric and distort the shape. Lay flat, reshape gently, let it air dry naturally.

For structured pieces with underwire or padding, reshape the cups while damp. Once they dry misshapen, they stay misshapen.

Long-Term Storage

Once your swimwear is completely dry, store it flat — not folded. Folding creates permanent creases in the fabric and can misshape padding. If drawer space is tight, lay pieces flat between sheets of acid-free tissue paper to prevent colours from transferring.

Keep swimwear in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. A dedicated drawer or fabric storage box is ideal. Never store swimwear in plastic bags — the lack of airflow encourages mildew.

Common Mistakes

Sitting on rough pool edges — the concrete snags delicate fabrics instantly. Applying sunscreen and immediately putting on your swimsuit — let it absorb first, or the chemicals will stain and degrade the fabric. Wringing out excess water — this stretches the elastane permanently.

Your Melissa Odabash kaftan and your Hunza G one-piece are investments. Treat them accordingly and they will last years, not seasons.