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Summer is here, and that means long days at the pool, beach trips, and plenty of time in your favourite swimwear. To keep your swimsuits looking and feeling their best all season long, it's essential to know how to clean and care for them properly. Here are some tips for maintaining your swimwear during these summer months.
1. Pre-Swim Rinse: The Secret to Longer-Lasting Swimwear
Before you dive into the pool or ocean, give your swimsuit a quick rinse with fresh water. This simple step helps fill the filaments of the fabric with clean water, reducing the amount of chlorinated or salt water it can absorb. This not only helps protect the elasticity and colour of your swimwear but also extends its lifespan.
2. Post-Swim Rinse: Essential for Removing Residual Chemicals
After swimming, it's crucial to rinse your swimsuit immediately. Chlorine and salt can be harsh on swimwear fabrics, leading to fading and deterioration over time. Rinse your swimsuit thoroughly with fresh water to remove any residual chemicals and salt.
3. Hand Wash with Nellie's Laundry Soda
For the best care, hand wash your swimwear using a mild detergent like Nellie's Laundry Soda. Here's how:
- Fill a Basin: Fill a basin with cool water and add a small amount of Nellie's Laundry Soda.
- Submerge and Soak: Submerge your swimsuit in the soapy water and let it soak for about 10-15 minutes. This helps to gently lift away any oils, sunscreen, and residues without being too harsh on the fabric.
- Gently Agitate: Gently agitate the water to ensure all areas of the swimsuit are cleaned. Avoid scrubbing or wringing the fabric as this can damage the fibers.
- Rinse: Rinse thoroughly with cool water to remove all soap residues.
4. Machine Wash on Gently Cycle
If you prefer machine washing, ensure you use the gentle cycle with cool water and add a small amount of Nellie's Laundry Soda. Place your swimsuit in a mesh laundry bag to protect it from friction and damage during the wash cycle.
5. Avoid Leaving Swimwear Balled Up
Never leave your wet swimsuit balled up in a bag after swimming. This can lead to mildew and unpleasant odours. Instead, rinse it immediately and allow it to air dry.
6. Air Dry Flat or Hang to Dry
To maintain the shape and elasticity of your swimwear, avoid using a dryer. Instead, lay your swimsuit flat on a clean, dry towel to air dry. Alternatively, you can hang it to dry, but avoid hanging by the straps as this can cause stretching. Always dry swimwear away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
7. Avoid Fabric Softeners and Harsh Chemicals
Fabric softeners and harsh chemicals can damage the delicate fibers of swimwear. Stick to mild detergents like Nellie's Laundry Soda to keep your swimwear in top condition.
Bonus Tips for Swimwear Care
- Rotate Your Swimsuits: Give your swimsuits a break between uses to allow the fabric to recover.
- Hot Tubs: Hot water and chemicals in hot tubs can be especially harsh on swimwear fabrics. If you use a hot tub, be extra diligent about rinsing and cleaning your swimsuit immediately after.
- Store Properly: When not in use, store your swimwear flat in a drawer to prevent stretching and distortion.
By following these simple steps and using Nellie's Laundry Soda, you can keep your swimwear looking vibrant and feeling great all summer long. Enjoy your time in the sun, and let Nellie's help you maintain your favourite swimsuits!