Do You Have to Wash Swimwear Before Wearing It?

When you get your hands on a brand-new swimsuit from CRAVEBYFW, the excitement is real! The colors are vibrant, the fabric is smooth, and you can't wait to hit the beach or pool. But before you dive in, an important question arises—should you wash your swimwear before wearing it?

The short answer: Yes, you should! But why? Let’s explore the reasons and best practices to keep your swimsuit fresh, safe, and long-lasting.

Why Should You Wash New Swimwear?

Many people assume that brand-new clothing is clean, but swimsuits go through various manufacturing and packaging processes before reaching you. Here’s why you should always wash your swimsuit before wearing it:

1. Remove Factory Chemicals and Residues

Swimwear is often treated with dyes, fabric finishes, and preservatives to maintain its color and elasticity. These chemicals can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, especially if you have sensitive skin. A quick wash helps remove these residues and makes your swimsuit safer to wear.

According to DermNet NZ, textile chemicals can trigger skin conditions like contact dermatitis, making it essential to wash new clothing before first use.

2. Get Rid of Manufacturing & Storage Dust

From production to packaging, swimwear is handled by multiple people and stored in warehouses. Even if it looks clean, dust, dirt, and invisible bacteria could be on the fabric. A wash ensures you’re not putting anything unwanted against your skin.

A study by National Library of Medicine found that new textiles often carry bacteria from manufacturing environments, emphasizing the importance of washing before wearing.

3. Eliminate Excess Dye

Bright and bold swimwear (just like the stylish pieces from CRAVEBYFW) often contains highly pigmented dyes. If you don’t wash it first, the excess dye might bleed when exposed to water, potentially staining your skin or towels.

According to Good Housekeeping, washing new clothes can help remove excess dye and prevent unwanted color transfer.

4. Improve Fabric Comfort & Fit

A fresh wash can soften the fabric and remove any stiff residues, making the swimsuit feel more comfortable on your skin. It also allows the fabric to settle into its natural stretch, ensuring a better fit when you wear it for the first time.

How to Wash Your New Swimsuit Properly

Washing your new swimsuit the right way will help it stay in perfect shape. Follow these simple steps to clean your swimwear without damaging it:

Step 1: Rinse with Cold Water

Before adding any soap, rinse your swimsuit under cold running water. This helps loosen any chemicals or residues from the fabric.

Step 2: Use a Gentle Cleanser

Avoid harsh detergents! Instead, use a mild detergent or baby shampoo to wash your swimwear. These will clean the fabric without breaking down the delicate fibers.

For the best eco-friendly detergent options, check out The Environmental Working Group (EWG), which ranks detergents based on their safety and effectiveness.

Step 3: Hand Wash Only

Swimwear should never go in the washing machine. Gently massage the fabric with your hands to remove impurities without stretching it.

Step 4: Rinse & Remove Excess Water

After washing, rinse the swimsuit thoroughly with clean water. Avoid wringing or twisting—instead, gently press out excess water with a towel.

Step 5: Air Dry Flat

Lay your swimsuit flat on a towel in a shaded area to dry. Avoid direct sunlight, as UV rays can cause fading and weaken the fabric over time.

For more tips on preserving fabric quality, visit The American Cleaning Institute, which offers fabric care guides.

Extra Tips to Keep Your Swimwear in Top Shape

• Rinse After Every Wear – Even if you don’t wash it fully, a quick rinse after swimming removes chlorine, salt, and sunscreen, which can degrade the fabric.
• Avoid Rough Surfaces – Sitting on pool edges or rough surfaces can cause snags and fabric damage. Use a towel to protect your swimsuit.
• Rotate Between Swimsuits – If you swim often, having multiple swimsuits (like those from CRAVEBYFW) helps reduce wear and tear on any single piece.

Final Verdict: Always Wash Before Wearing!

To keep your swimsuit fresh, safe, and long-lasting, always wash it before wearing it for the first time. Not only will you remove unwanted chemicals and dust, but you’ll also ensure a comfortable and irritation-free experience.

At CRAVEBYFW, we believe that your swimwear should make you feel confident, comfortable, and stylish. With proper care, your swimsuit will stay in perfect condition for many beach days to come.

So, next time you receive your brand-new swimsuit, remember: wash first, then dive in!