How to care for a luxury swimsuit so it lasts
By the Elk Pegasus studio,
Small habits that make a significant difference to how long a piece holds its shape and colour
A well-made swimsuit can last three or four seasons with regular use if it is cared for correctly. The same piece, treated carelessly, may lose its shape within a single summer. The difference comes down to a few consistent habits that take very little time.
Rinse immediately after every wear
Salt water and chlorine both degrade elastane fibres. The damage is cumulative and largely invisible until the fabric begins to lose its recovery. Rinsing the piece in cold fresh water immediately after wearing, before the salt or chlorine dries into the fabric, slows this process significantly.
This applies even after a short swim. The rinse does not need to be thorough; the goal is to remove the surface residue before it sets.
Hand wash in cool water, always
Machine washing, even on a delicate cycle, subjects the fabric to mechanical stress that stretches and weakens the fibres over time. Hand washing in cool water with a small amount of gentle detergent is sufficient to clean a swimsuit after normal use.
Avoid wringing the fabric. Press the water out gently and lay the piece flat to dry. Hanging a wet swimsuit by the straps stretches them under the weight of the water.
Drying and storage
Direct sunlight fades colour and degrades elastane. Dry the piece in shade or indoors. A flat drying rack is better than a line, which can leave a crease across the body of the garment.
For storage between seasons, fold the piece loosely and keep it away from direct light. Avoid storing it compressed under other items for extended periods. The fabric has memory and will hold a crease if left folded tightly for months.
- Rinse in cold fresh water after every wear
- Hand wash in cool water with gentle detergent
- Press water out, do not wring
- Dry flat in shade
- Store loosely folded, away from direct light
When to bring a piece in for restoration
Elastic loses tension over time regardless of care. When the leg openings or straps begin to feel loose, the elastic can be replaced without replacing the whole garment. We offer this service for pieces made at the studio and, selectively, for quality pieces from other makers. It is worth considering before replacing a piece that otherwise fits and looks well.
Most of these habits take less than two minutes. The pieces that come back to us for restoration after three or four seasons are almost always the ones whose owners rinsed them consistently.