Want your tan-through swimwear to last? Proper care is key to maintaining its performance and durability. Unlike regular swimsuits, tan-through fabrics are delicate and require special attention to keep their UV-filtering and quick-drying properties intact. Here's what you need to know:
Key Care Tips:
- Wash by Hand: Use cold or lukewarm water (below 85°F) and a mild detergent like baby shampoo. Avoid washing machines and harsh detergents.
- Rinse After Use: Always rinse with cool water after swimming to remove chlorine, salt, and sunscreen residue.
- Air Dry in the Shade: Lay flat or hang on padded hangers, away from heat and direct sunlight.
What to Avoid:
- No Bleach or Softeners: These damage the fabric and reduce its UV functionality.
- Skip High Heat: Heat can weaken the material, affecting its performance.
By following these steps, your tan-through swimwear will stay in great shape, helping you enjoy even tanning and long-lasting wear.
How to Make Your Swimwear Last Longer | Essential Care Tips!
Do's for Cleaning and Maintaining Tan-Through Swimwear
Taking care of your tan-through swimwear is all about being gentle and mindful of its unique fabric. By following these steps, you can keep your suit in great shape while ensuring it continues to deliver that even tan you love.
Hand Wash in Cold or Lukewarm Water
Wash your tan-through swimwear by hand using water that’s no warmer than 85°F. Use a mild, pH-neutral detergent like lingerie wash or baby shampoo. Gently work the detergent into the fabric for about 2–3 minutes, focusing on areas that see the most wear.
Skip regular laundry detergents - they often contain enzymes and brighteners that can clog the tiny perforations in the fabric. And avoid using a washing machine, as the agitation can damage the delicate material.
Rinse After Every Use
After each wear, rinse your suit immediately in cool, clean water. This helps remove chlorine, salt, body oils, and sunscreen residue. Run water through the fabric and gently squeeze it (don’t wring it out) to clear any buildup.
This step is critical for making your swimwear last. Chlorine can weaken the fibers in just a few hours if not rinsed out, while salt water can leave behind crystals that harm the fabric. Pay extra attention to areas where elastic meets fabric since these spots tend to trap residues.
Air Dry in the Shade
Lay your suit flat on a clean towel in a shaded, well-ventilated spot to dry. If you prefer to hang it, use padded hangers and clip the bottom hem to avoid stretching. Keep it away from any heat source, as heat can damage the fabric.
Air drying is the safest way to care for tan-through swimwear. The fabric’s UV-filtering properties make it sensitive to sunlight when wet, which can lead to uneven fading and affect its tanning performance. High-quality suits, like those made with BetterTan's MicroTan® fabric, are designed to dry quickly under these conditions.
Don'ts to Avoid Damage and Wear
Taking care of your swimsuit properly is essential to keep it in top condition. Even small mistakes can seriously affect its performance and longevity.
Steer Clear of Bleach, Harsh Detergents, and Fabric Softeners
Bleach, harsh detergents, and fabric softeners are no-gos when it comes to swimsuit care. These products can break down the fabric, making it less durable and reducing its UV protection. Stick to a gentle cleanser specifically made for delicate fabrics to maintain your swimsuit's quality and functionality.
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Tips for Maintaining Tan-Through Functionality
To keep your MicroTan® fabric working its magic - offering tan-through benefits and quick-dry convenience - proper care is key. Here’s how to ensure your suit stays in top shape.
Adjust Straps and Elastics While Tanning
Move your straps and elastics around during tanning sessions to avoid unwanted tan lines. Shift shoulder straps, side ties, or elastic waistbands every so often to ensure no part of your skin stays covered for too long. This simple habit helps promote a more even and natural tan.
Be Cautious with Sunscreen and Tanning Oil
If you’re using sunscreen or tanning oil, let it fully absorb into your skin before hopping into the water. This step minimizes the risk of these products soaking into the fabric and impacting its quick-dry properties. For best results, try BetterTan's 100% Natural Tanning Oil, which works well with MicroTan® fabric. If sunscreen is your choice, opt for mineral-based options like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as they’re gentler on the material.
Rinse After Swimming
Whether you’ve been in the ocean or a chlorinated pool, it’s important to rinse your swimwear with cool, fresh water right after swimming. This helps remove chlorine, salt, and other residues that can weaken the fabric over time, keeping it performing at its best and extending its lifespan.
Conclusion: Protecting Your Tan-Through Swimwear Investment
Taking care of your tan-through swimwear ensures it continues to deliver the benefits that make MicroTan® fabric so special. By following the right cleaning and drying techniques, you can preserve its ability to let UV rays pass through while keeping its quick-drying properties intact.
It's also important to steer clear of harsh chemicals, high heat, and rough handling. This fabric is more delicate than traditional swimwear, so treating it with care is key to maintaining its functionality over time.
By sticking to the maintenance tips outlined - like adjusting straps during tanning to avoid uneven exposure and being cautious with sunscreen application - you can keep your swimsuit in great shape. A little extra effort goes a long way in ensuring your suit stays effective and ready for use season after season.
When cared for properly, your tan-through swimwear becomes more than just a piece of clothing - it’s a reliable part of your tanning routine, offering comfort and style while helping you achieve an even, natural tan without tan lines.
FAQs
How do I keep my tan-through swimwear in top condition and maintain its UV-filtering properties?
To make sure your tan-through swimwear stays in top condition and continues to provide its UV-filtering benefits, always wash it gently with a mild detergent and cool water. Steer clear of harsh chemicals like bleach or fabric softeners, as these can harm the specialized fabric. When not in use, try to minimize its contact with chlorine and saltwater, and always rinse it thoroughly after swimming to remove any lingering residue.
For storage, keep your swimwear in a cool, dry spot, away from prolonged exposure to sunlight, which can cause unnecessary wear over time. With the right care, your tan-through swimwear can last for many seasons to come!
How should I apply sunscreen when wearing tan-through swimwear to stay protected?
To stay protected from the sun while wearing tan-through swimwear, start by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to all exposed areas of your skin before putting on your swimwear. Pay extra attention to spots where the fabric is thinner or more breathable, as these areas are more vulnerable to UV rays.
Remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or right after swimming or sweating. Tan-through fabrics offer only limited UV protection, so sunscreen is essential to shield your skin while you enjoy the perks of your tan-through swimwear.
Why shouldn't I use a washing machine to clean my tan-through swimwear?
Using a washing machine for your tan-through swimwear might seem convenient, but it can actually harm the delicate fabric. The agitation and spinning can stretch or weaken the material, leading to a loss of elasticity and fading. This is especially true for the MicroTan® fabric, which is specially crafted to enhance tanning while maintaining its strength.
To keep your swimwear in top shape, hand washing is the way to go. Use cool water and a mild detergent to gently clean it. This method protects the fabric, helping it retain its tanning properties and durability for the long haul.