How to Wash a Swimsuit After the Pool or Beach
Rinse your swimsuit in cool fresh water after swimming, then check the care label before washing. If you’re unsure and the label allows washing, gently hand-wash with mild detergent, press out the water with a clean towel, and dry as the label directs. Use a washer or dryer only if your garment allows it.
What to do after the pool or beach
A rinse at the pool shower or hotel sink gets you through the first few minutes. Once you’re back, decide whether the suit also needs a wash for sunscreen, body oils or a lingering smell. Speedo’s care guide also recommends a fresh-water rinse and following the garment’s own instructions.
| What’s on the suit | Do this first | Once you’re back |
|---|---|---|
| Pool water | Rinse both sides with cool fresh water. | Wash as directed if a pool smell lingers. |
| Saltwater and sand | Rinse, then check the lining, seams and pockets for grit. | Flush trapped sand out gently with fresh water before washing. |
| Sunscreen | Rinse the affected area as soon as you can. | Gently wash with mild detergent if allowed. Check the spot before drying. |
If you’re leaving the beach for lunch, carry the suit separately in a wet bag and take it out when you arrive. See the beach-to-lunch packing checklist for a dry outfit to change into.
How to hand-wash and dry a swimsuit
- Read the label. Check the wash and dry instructions separately. Close any fasteners and check pockets before washing.
- Use cool water and mild detergent. Fill a clean basin and add the amount of detergent recommended for hand washing. Gently move the suit through the water.
- Rinse and press. Rinse away the detergent. Lay the suit on a clean towel, fold the towel over it, and press to absorb water. Keep the suit flat while you press so you avoid twisting the fabric.
- Dry as directed. If the label says to dry flat, reshape the suit on a dry towel or a flat rack in the shade with air around it. Check thick seams, the lining and any removable pads before putting it away.
When you can use the washing machine
Machine wash only if the label permits it. A maximum temperature is the upper limit. For a mixed load, read each tag and choose settings that suit every garment, or wash the pieces separately. Check drying instructions again before moving anything to the dryer.
| Swimsuit style | Machine wash | Drying |
|---|---|---|
| Mid-length trunks | Cold, up to 30°C. | Low tumble heat permitted. |
| Triangle bikini | Warm, up to 40°C. | Dry flat. |
| Classic one-piece | Warm, up to 40°C. | Dry flat. |
These are the published directions for the three styles shown in our swimwear style and size charts. Follow the label on your actual garment if it differs, including when you’re washing two pieces of a matching set together.
Common swimsuit care questions
Can I rinse a swimsuit between wears without using detergent?
Yes. A cool fresh-water rinse is a useful first step after swimming. Follow the label for a full wash when the suit has visible residue, sunscreen buildup or a lingering smell.
How should I wash a bikini with removable pads?
Check the care label. If the pads slide out through an opening, wash and dry them separately as directed, then put them back once the pads and lining are completely dry.
How should I pack a swimsuit that’s still damp?
Press out excess water with a towel and pack the suit in a separate wet bag for the journey. Unpack it when you arrive and finish drying it according to the label.