How to Care for Your Swimwear So It Lasts

A great swimsuit can last years, or look worn out by the end of summer. The difference comes down almost entirely to how you care for it. Here's everything you need to know to protect your Puella Marina investment.

Rinse Immediately After Wearing

Chlorine, saltwater, and sunscreen are the three biggest enemies of swimwear fabric. Each one degrades elastic fibres and fades colour over time. The fix is simple: rinse your swimsuit in cool, fresh water as soon as you're done wearing it. Don't wait until you get home. Even a quick rinse in the shower at the beach club makes a meaningful difference.

Hand Wash, Always

Machine washing: even on a gentle cycle, causes unnecessary friction and stretching. Swimwear should always be hand-washed using a small amount of mild detergent or specialist swimwear wash. Gently squeeze (never wring) the fabric and rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear.

Dry Flat in the Shade

Direct sunlight fades colour and breaks down elastic faster than almost anything else. Always dry your swimsuit flat, draping it over a surface rather than hanging it, and keep it out of direct sun. Never put it in a tumble dryer.

Rotate Your Pieces

Wearing the same swimsuit day after day doesn't give the elastic fibres time to recover their shape. If you're on a week-long holiday, alternate between two or three pieces. Your swimwear will thank you.

Store It Properly

When the season ends, store your swimwear clean and dry, laid flat or loosely folded, never compressed under heavy items. Avoid leaving it in a wet bag for extended periods, as this encourages mildew and breaks down the material.

Why Quality Makes This Easier

Premium fabrics aren't just about how a swimsuit looks on day one. They're about how it looks on day 100. Puella Marina uses materials specifically chosen for their colour retention, shape recovery, and durability under repeated sun and water exposure. Taking care of quality is far easier than replacing cheap alternatives every season.

Shop the Puella Marina collection: pieces built to last, designed to be worn, and worth caring for.