Along with the proper technique for washing your swimsuit, you also want to make sure you're not washing it too often, as that can also damage its integrity. Swimsuits are usually made out of spandex, which can wear out quickly with too many washes. Additionally, perspiration and exposure to body oils and chemicals in pool water can also affect your suit. The secret to extending the number of wears you get out of your bathing suits is, of course, proper care. Well+Good suggests washing your favorite bikini or one-piece as soon as possible once you are finished wearing it, and washing it regularly.
You don't want to hangout in wet bathing suit bottoms for long, either. Jacqueline Ho, MD, MS, assistant professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at USC Keck School of Medicine, told the outlet that "things like tight clothing, non-breathable fabric, and moisture can predispose you to having a yeast infection." But, as long as you change into and out of your swimsuit as needed, there's little to no risk in re-wearing the garment multiple times. "Most bathing suit designers and manufacturers recommend letting the bathing suit air dry and washing only every three to five wears," she said.
So, there you have it. Hand wash when possible, hang to dry, and go a few wears between cleaning. With that knowledge in hand, you are free to enjoy that itsy bitsy, teenie weenie, yellow polka dot bikini all summer long.
