How to Keep Your Brief Swimwear Clean and in Top Condition: Expert-Backed Care Guide

Essential Tips for Maintaining Your Brief Swimwear in Excellent Condition

Brief swimwear isn’t just a functional part of your wardrobe—it’s a style statement, a confidence booster, and an investment in your comfort during pool days, beach getaways, and circuit parties. Whether your favourite pair is neon, mesh, printed, or made of luxe Lycra, keeping your swimwear clean, vibrant, and in top shape is key to making it last.

This guide offers everything you need to know to properly care for your brief swimwear, based on expert advice and real-life experience. No fluff, no unnecessary steps—just straight-up tips that will preserve your swimwear’s fit, colour, and feel.

1. Why Proper Swimwear Care Matters

Let’s start with why you should care about… well, caring. Swimwear is made from delicate, stretchy materials like nylon, spandex, and elastane, all of which are highly susceptible to wear and tear from elements like:

• Chlorine (used in pools to kill bacteria)

• Saltwater (which can dry out and weaken fabric)

• Sunscreen & body oils (which leave residue)

• UV exposure (which fades colours fast)

Without the right cleaning and storage methods, your briefs can lose elasticity, fade in colour, develop odours, or even stretch out completely. And nobody wants that saggy-seat situation at the beach.

2. Rinse Immediately After Use

The top rule of swimwear care? Rinse it right away.

After swimming in a chlorinated pool, ocean, or even lounging in the sun, your swim briefs need to be rinsed in cool, clean water ASAP. This stops chemicals and salt from baking into the fabric, which over time can cause:

• Color fading

• Fiber breakdown

• Persistent odors

Just a quick rinse under the tap is better than nothing. If you’re at the beach or gym, find the nearest shower or bring a water bottle for an on-the-go rinse.

3. Hand Wash Gently—Never Use the Washing Machine

Machine washing may seem convenient, but it’s a quick path to ruining your favourite swim briefs. The agitation, heat, and spinning can seriously damage fabric structure.

Instead, follow this gentle hand-washing method:

• Fill a basin or sink with cool or lukewarm water

• Add a small amount of mild detergent—look for products labelled “for delicates” or “swimwear safe”

• Let the swimwear soak for 5–10 minutes

• Gently swish and massage the fabric, focusing on areas that touched sunscreen or sweat

❌ Avoid:

• Bleach

• Fabric softeners

• Scrubbing or wringing the fabric

These actions can strip colours, stretch seams, or wear down the elasticity.

4. Rinse Thoroughly to Remove Soap Residue

Once you’ve given your swimwear a good hand wash, it’s time to rinse out all the detergent. Soap residue left in the fabric can lead to stiffness, irritation, or even mildew.

Use cool water and gently work the soap out of the fabric until it’s squeaky clean. This final rinse is key to keeping your briefs soft and flexible.

5. Gently Remove Excess Water—Don’t Twist or Wring

After rinsing, you’ll be tempted to squeeze your swim briefs dry. But wait—don’t wring them out!

Instead:

• Press the briefs flat against the side of the sink or basin

• Roll them in a clean towel to soak up remaining moisture

Wringing causes fabric distortion and weakens the seams, especially in snug-fitting styles like briefs.

6. Air Dry Flat in Shade—Never Use Heat

Drying your swimwear the wrong way is a guaranteed shortcut to deterioration.

Here’s the right method:

• Lay flat on a dry towel in a shaded area

• Avoid direct sunlight, which fades dyes and stiffens the fabric

• Do not hang by the waistband—this stretches the fabric over time

• Never toss your briefs in the dryer (even on low!)—heat breaks down elastane and spandex fast

If you want your swimwear to last more than a single season, air drying in shade is non-negotiable.

7. Store With Care—Not Crumpled in a Drawer

Once dry, how you store your brief swimwear can affect its longevity too. Here’s how to do it right:

• Fold your swimwear flat

• Store it in a breathable drawer or box

• Keep it away from rough fabrics like denim or items with zippers, velcro, or hooks

• Consider using a cloth dust bag for extra protection

Avoid stuffing damp swimwear into a plastic bag or rolling it up and forgetting it. This creates a perfect environment for bacteria, mildew, and mould.

8. Deep Clean Every 3–4 Wears

For swimwear that gets regular use—say, at weekly pool parties or beach days—you’ll want to give it a deep clean every few wears.

This means:

• Soaking for longer (15–20 minutes)

• Using a specialty detergent designed to remove sunscreen, chlorine, or salt

• Adding a splash of white vinegar to help eliminate odours and restore pH balance (optional)

A deep clean will keep your briefs looking fresh and smelling great even after multiple wears.

9. Don’t Leave Swimwear Damp for Long

It’s easy to forget your damp swimwear in a gym bag or the backseat of the car—but don’t do it.

Leaving wet swimwear bunched up for hours can lead to:

• Musty smells

• Bacterial buildup

• Fabric breakdown

Always dry it out as soon as you can, even if you don’t have time for a full wash. A quick rinse and lay-flat dry can make all the difference.

10. Check the Care Label—Every Fabric Is Different

Many swim briefs now come in innovative materials like mesh, metallic foil, or ultra-light microfiber blends. These may require special care instructions.

Take a moment to read the label—it might advise:

• Cold water only

• No detergent

• Avoid ironing or tumble drying

Following the label’s instructions can prevent accidental damage and void warranties if the swimwear is from a high-end brand.

11. Pro Tips to Maximise Swimwear Life

Here are some bonus expert tips to get even more mileage out of your swimwear:

• Rotate pairs: Don’t wear the same briefs every day; give elastic time to rebound

• Use a mesh bag: If you must use a machine, use a mesh lingerie bag and choose a delicate cycle

• Sunscreen awareness: Apply sunscreen before putting on your briefs—this minimises residue

• Shower first: Rinsing off before entering the pool reduces the chlorine load your briefs absorb

• Buy quality: Invest in higher-end swimwear with reinforced stitching and durable elastane

These little habits can save you from replacing your favourites every few months.

Conclusion: Swim Briefs That Last Start With Smart Care

Taking proper care of your brief swimwear doesn’t have to be time-consuming or complicated. With a few simple habits—rinsing after use, washing gently, drying properly, and storing with care—you can keep your favourite briefs in peak condition all year round.

Your swimwear is more than just fabric; it’s part of your identity and style. Show it a little love, and it’ll serve you well from pool parties to Pride parades and beyond.

Want to make your swimwear last longer and look better? Bookmark this guide and follow these steps every time. Clean briefs, confident vibes! 🩲✨