How to care for sustainable swimwear

Want your eco swimwear to last longer? Here’s how to wash, store and protect sustainable swimsuits to keep them looking new.

Sustainable swimwear is designed to last - but the way you care for it makes all the difference. Whether your suit is made from recycled nylon, regenerated ocean plastics, or low-impact plant-based fibres, the right maintenance will help preserve its stretch, colour and shape. Caring properly also reduces microplastic shedding, extends the life of your pieces and keeps them out of landfill longer.

Here’s your simple guide to caring for eco-friendly swimwear from The Someday Co’s swim collection, so it stays beautiful season after season.

1. Rinse after every swim

Salt water, pool chemicals and sunscreen are the biggest culprits behind premature wear.
The number one rule? Rinse your swimwear immediately after use.

A quick cold-water rinse helps:

• remove chlorine before it breaks down fibres

• wash away salt that can dry out fabric

• reduce buildup from sunscreen and body oils

Cold water is essential, hot water can damage elastic fibres and shorten the lifespan of recycled materials.

2. Wash gently (and skip the machine)

Sustainable swimwear fabrics like recycled nylon are strong but sensitive to heat and abrasion. For long lasting wear:

• Hand wash only, in cold water

• Use a gentle, fragrance free detergent

• Avoid harsh chemicals, stain removers or fabric softeners

• Never wring your swimwear, just squeeze gently instead

Machine washing increases friction, which can cause pilling, stretching and unnecessary microplastic release into waterways.

3. Dry in the shade

Direct sunlight might feel like the natural way to dry swimwear, but it’s actually one of the fastest ways to fade colour and weaken elastic.

To dry sustainably and safely:

• Lay flat in the shade

• Avoid twisting or stretching the fabric

• Don’t hang by the straps

• Never use a dryer (high heat damages fibres quickly)

If you want extra longevity, lay your swimwear on a towel to absorb moisture more evenly.

4. Rotate your suits

Just like sustainable activewear, swimwear needs time to return to its natural shape. Wearing the same suit every day, especially when it's wet from a previous swim, can stretch out elastic.

A simple solution? Rotate between a couple of eco-friendly swimsuits.
This gives each one time to dry fully and bounce back, helping them maintain their original fit for much longer.

5. Avoid rough surfaces

Recycled fabrics tend to be soft and smooth — but that also makes them prone to snagging.

To protect your swimwear:

• Avoid sitting directly on concrete, rough pool edges or timber

• Use a towel underneath when sunbathing

• Rinse sand gently rather than rubbing it off

Small snags can quickly grow, so prevention matters.

6. Store your swimwear properly

When the season ends or you’re packing for a surf trip:

• Make sure your swimwear is completely dry

• Store it flat or gently folded

• Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat

• Avoid airtight plastic bags — use cotton pouches instead

Eco fabrics breathe better when stored lightly rather than compressed.

7. Protect against sunscreen stains

Sunscreen—especially mineral formulas—can leave yellow or oily marks on sustainable swimwear.

Tips to avoid damage:

• Apply sunscreen and let it absorb before putting your swimsuit on

• Rinse off lotions and oils before washing

• Treat stains immediately with natural soap or gentle detergent

Recommended Eco Swimwear at The Someday Co

You can care for all sustainable swim pieces using the above tips, including styles from The Someday Co’s Sustainable Swimwear Collection. Look for:

• Recycled nylon (ECONYL®) bikinis and one-pieces

• Long-lasting surf suits designed for active movement

• UPF-rated eco rash vests made from regenerated fibres

These materials are durable when cared for correctly and designed with low-impact production in mind.

Sustainable swimwear isn’t just a fashion choice, it’s a commitment to buying less, choosing better and keeping your garments in use for years. With a little extra care, your eco-friendly pieces will stay supportive, vibrant and comfortable through countless beach days and swim seasons.

Let your suit last - and let the planet benefit too.