How to Care for Eco-Friendly Swimwear: Sustainable Maintenance Tips

Quick Answer: How to Care for Eco-Friendly Swimwear

To keep sustainable swimwear looking great, rinse it in cold water immediately after swimming, hand wash with a gentle detergent, and dry it flat in the shade. Avoid chlorine and saltwater damage by washing promptly and never wringing or using a dryer.

Eco-friendly swimwear is made from recycled materials like nylon or polyester, which are durable but still need proper care to maintain their shape and color. Unlike conventional swimwear, these fabrics have specific needs to prevent stretching, fading, and damage from chlorine or saltwater.

Whether you're wearing a swimsuit from Leonisa's sustainable collection or any other brand, following a simple care routine can extend the life of your swimwear and reduce your environmental footprint. Here’s how to wash, dry, and store your eco-friendly pieces to keep them looking new.

Why Eco-Friendly Swimwear Needs Special Care

Recycled fabrics, like those used in sustainable swimwear, are designed to be resilient, but they are still sensitive to harsh chemicals and high heat. Chlorine and saltwater can break down the fibers over time, causing them to lose elasticity and fade. Sunscreen and oils can also contribute to discoloration and fabric degradation.

By adopting a gentle care routine, you not only preserve the appearance and fit of your swimwear but also support the sustainability mission by reducing the need for frequent replacements. Proper care also prevents microplastics from shedding into waterways, which is a key concern with synthetic fabrics.

Understanding Fabric Labels and Recycled Materials

Before washing, always check the care label on your swimwear. Many eco-friendly swimwear brands use recycled nylon or polyester, and these materials may have specific instructions. For example, some recycled fabrics are more sensitive to high temperatures and require cold water washing.

If you're unsure about the fabric content, a good rule of thumb is to treat all swimwear as delicate. Use a gentle detergent that is free of bleach and fabric softeners, as these can coat the fibers and reduce their breathability and stretch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the most common mistakes is leaving swimwear in a damp pile after swimming. This can lead to mildew and unpleasant odors, and it also allows chlorine to continue damaging the fabric. Never wring out your swimwear, as this can distort the shape and break the elastic fibers.

Another mistake is using hot water or a dryer. High heat can cause shrinkage and weaken the recycled fibers. Always opt for cold water and air drying, and avoid direct sunlight for extended periods, as UV rays can fade colors.

Step-by-Step Care Routine for Eco-Friendly Swimwear

1. Rinse Immediately After Swimming: As soon as you're done swimming, rinse your swimwear in cold running water to remove chlorine, salt, sand, and sunscreen. This prevents chemicals from setting into the fabric. Don't let your swimwear sit in a wet bag—rinse it within a few minutes.
2. Hand Wash with Gentle Detergent: Fill a basin with cold water and add a small amount of mild detergent (free from bleach and softeners). Submerge your swimwear and gently squeeze the water through it. Avoid scrubbing or twisting. Never use a washing machine—it's too harsh for delicate recycled fibers.
3. Dry Flat in the Shade: Lay your swimwear on a clean towel, roll it up to press out excess water, then unroll and lay flat to dry in a shaded area. Avoid hanging, which can stretch the fabric, and avoid direct sunlight. Never put swimwear in the dryer; heat damages elasticity.
4. Store Properly: Once completely dry, store your swimwear folded in a drawer or on a shelf. Avoid folding over straps or harsh creases that can weaken the fabric over time. Proper storage prevents unnecessary wear and tear.

Sustainable Swimwear Options from Leonisa

• Supportive Super-Cool Trunk with Ergonomic Pouch: Made of our signature CoolTech fabric, this trunk is cool to the touch and offers just enough coverage with a deep, ergonomically-designed pouch for supportive wear. For men's sustainable swim trunks, this style provides comfort and support. To maintain the CoolTech fabric's properties, follow the care steps above to prevent damage from chlorine and heat.
• Ultra-Light Boxer Brief with Ergonomic Pouch: Made of our signature FitTech fabric, a porous material designed for no-feel comfort and supreme airflow, with an ultra-flat design to prevent chafing. While not swimwear, this boxer brief's high-tech fabric benefits from similar care to maintain its breathability and shape. Hand washing and air drying will keep the FitTech material performing well.

Taking a few extra minutes to care for your eco-friendly swimwear not only extends its life but also aligns with your sustainable values. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy your swimwear for many seasons while minimizing your environmental impact.