Knowing how to wash a bikini properly makes all the difference in its durability, elasticity, and appearance. Most bikinis lose shape or color not because of poor quality, but due to incorrect washing from the very first uses.
This guide is simple, direct, and applicable to any quality bikini.
1. Always hand wash (even if the label says otherwise)
The washing machine is swimwear’s biggest enemy. Rotation, friction, and spinning:
- deform the fabric,
- damage elastic fibers,
- accelerate seam wear.
The correct approach:
- hand wash in cold or lukewarm water
- use gentle movements, without rubbing
2. Use mild detergent (and very little)
Harsh detergents, bleach, or “whitening” products:
- destroy elasticity,
- alter color,
- dry out the lycra.
Ideally:
- use a mild or delicate-fabric detergent
- use a small amount (more foam does not mean cleaner)
3. Rinse immediately after use (even if you don’t wash it right away)
Salt, chlorine, sunscreen, and sand remain in the fabric and continue to act even out of the water.
If you can’t wash it immediately:
- rinse the bikini in cold water
- don’t let it dry with salt or chlorine on it
This is especially important for bikinis with good elasticity and body-adapting fit.
4. Never wring out your bikini
Twisting the fabric:
- distorts the material,
- creates permanent marks,
- weakens elasticity.
How to remove excess water:
- gently press with your hands
- or wrap it in a towel and press
5. Dry flat or hang without stretching
After removing excess water, the bikini should dry naturally, without tension on the fabric.
The correct method:
- dry in the shade
- lay flat or hang without stretching
Avoid hanging it by the straps or folding it unevenly, as this can distort the fabric and compromise elasticity, especially in more flexible materials like crinkle.
Never use a tumble dryer.
6. Do not store the bikini damp
Storing it while still wet:
- creates odors,
- weakens fibers,
- may cause permanent stains.
Before storing:
- make sure it is completely dry
- avoid sealed bags or plastic
7. Extra care for elastic fabrics like crinkle
Crinkle fabric bikinis, like those from Salis, have a specific construction: it’s a textured and highly elastic fabric, designed to adapt to the body rather than compress it.
This elasticity allows:
- better fit across different body types,
- all-day comfort,
- less reliance on rigid sizing.
Because it has memory and high elasticity, crinkle particularly benefits from proper washing. Aggressive washing, wringing, or using the wrong detergents can compromise its elasticity over time.
When properly cared for, crinkle:
- maintains its original shape much longer,
- preserves its characteristic texture,
- remains comfortable summer after summer.
Common mistakes to avoid
- washing in the machine
- using fabric softener
- soaking for hours
- wringing out to remove water
Avoiding these mistakes significantly increases the lifespan of your bikini.
In summary
Knowing how to wash a bikini properly doesn’t require expensive products or complicated processes. It only requires consistency and care.
A well-treated bikini:
- maintains its fit,
- preserves comfort,
- lasts for multiple summers.
