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Swimsuits may be small, but they sure know how to make a mess—tangled straps, folded cups, and bottoms that mysteriously disappear just when you need them. Whether you’re gearing up for summer, storing off-season pieces, or simply trying to keep your collection in one place, organizing your swimwear the right way can make a big difference.
In this guide, you’ll learn smart, simple tricks to store your swimwear neatly and help it last longer. Let’s check it out further!
Why Proper Organization and Storage Matter
Swimsuits are made from delicate materials like Lycra, Spandex, or polyester blends. These fabrics are great for stretch and comfort, but they’re also prone to losing shape, fading, and wearing out if not treated well. Storing them correctly means you get:
- Longer-lasting swimsuits
- Less fabric stretching or fading
- Easy access to all your options
- No more wrinkled, moldy, or tangled suits
How to Organize Swimsuits and Maintain Their Shape
So let’s check the step-by-step guide on how to organize swimsuits and maintain their shape!
1. Sort and Declutter First
Before diving into storage solutions, start by decluttering your swimwear collection. Lay out every swimsuit you own on a clean surface like your bed or a large table. Inspect each piece carefully for signs of wear.
Try them on if needed, especially if you haven’t worn a particular swimsuit in over a year. If it no longer fits or feels outdated, consider donating it (if it’s in good condition) or recycling it.
Once you’ve narrowed down your collection, sort the swimsuits by type: bikinis, one-piece swimsuits, rash guards, swim shorts, and so on. If you own mix-and-match sets, take this opportunity to pair matching tops and bottoms to avoid losing pieces later.
2. Wash and Dry Before Storing
Cleanliness is essential, especially before long-term storage. Always wash your swimsuits after each use—even if you didn’t swim in chlorinated or salty water. Sweat, sunscreen, and body oils can still break down the swimwear fabric.
Hand washing is best; avoids using regular laundry detergent, which can be too harsh. Once clean, lay the swimsuits flat on a towel to air dry, preferably in a shaded area to prevent color fading.
Never use a dryer or wring them out. And remember: never, ever store a damp swimsuit, as this leads to mildew and an unpleasant, musty smell.
3. Choose the Right Storage Spot
Where you store your swimwear matters just as much as how. Avoid tossing swimsuits into a general drawer where they can get crushed, lost, or exposed to damaging conditions.
Instead, pick a cool, dry, and dark place like a dresser drawer, shelf, or a closet that maintains a stable temperature. Bathrooms, though convenient, are usually too humid and can encourage mold or weaken the fabric fibers over time.
Keep swimsuits away from windows or sunlight, as UV rays will fade vibrant colors and degrade the material.
4. Use Drawer Dividers or Small Baskets
Swimsuits are often small and flexible, making them easy to misplace or tangle. That’s why organizing them with drawer dividers or small bins is a smart strategy. Adjustable dividers are great for keeping individual sets separated and stopping them from sliding around.
If you use open shelving, mesh bins or baskets allow for air circulation while making everything easy to spot. For those who travel frequently or like to separate seasonal swimwear, zippered fabric pouches work well to contain sets neatly.
You can even label bins with categories like “Bikinis,” “One-Pieces,” or “Pool Only” to simplify access.
5. Fold (Don’t Roll) to Preserve Shape
Proper folding helps your swimsuits keep their shape and structure, especially if they have padded cups or complex strap designs. For one-piece suits, lay them flat and fold vertically in half, then fold once more horizontally.
For bikini tops with molded cups, stack the cups into each other gently and place the straps neatly inside to avoid stretching. Bottoms can be folded in half and tucked into their matching top to keep the set together.
Avoid rolling or tightly compressing swimsuits, which can crush padding, warp cups, and stretch elastic bands.
6. Hang Only Certain Styles
Hanging can work well for some swimsuits, but only under the right conditions. Structured styles like padded one-pieces or tankinis may benefit from hanging on padded or velvet hangers to maintain their shape.
However, never hang a wet swimsuit, as the weight of water can stretch out the fabric over time. Also, avoid wire hangers entirely as they may rust or leave dents in delicate material. When done correctly, hanging can be useful for frequently worn swimsuits that need to stay ready to grab and go.
7. Seasonal Storage: Pack Smartly
If you don’t swim year-round, you’ll need to think about seasonal storage. First, make sure each piece is thoroughly washed and completely dry. Then, store your swimsuits in breathable cotton or mesh fabric bags to allow airflow and prevent moisture buildup.
To keep everything smelling fresh and bug-free, consider adding a lavender sachet or cedar block. Place the storage bag in a dry area, like under the bed or on a top closet shelf, and avoid stacking anything heavy on top to maintain the suit’s shape.
8. Extra Tips to Keep Your Swimsuits in Top Shape
A few extra habits can go a long way in extending the life of your swimwear. As an additional swimsuit care guide, rotate your swimsuits instead of wearing the same one every day. After swimming, gently press out water instead of wringing, which can damage the fibers.
Skip fabric softeners entirely, as they weaken stretch fabrics and can leave residue. Minimize time in hot tubs, since heat combined with chlorine accelerates fabric deterioration. And even on days you don’t get in the water, rinse your swimsuit after wearing it.
Finally, one of the most important but often overlooked tips is to invest in high-quality swimwear from the start. Well-made swimsuits hold their shape better, last longer, and provide a more flattering fit.
That’s why choosing swimwear from Diana Intimates is a smart move. Our pieces go through a meticulous design and production process, with strict quality control to ensure every detail is just right.
Whether it’s the elegant Butterfly Embroidery Fashion Swimsuit or the sleek 3D Engineered Seamless Swimsuit, our swimwear is built to last, so you can look and feel amazing every time you wear it.
Choose Diana Intimates’ Swimsuits!
Keeping your swimsuits organized and well cared for helps your favorite pieces last longer and stay in perfect shape for every swim. And if you’re looking to refresh your swimwear collection with something truly special, check out Diana Intimates!
We offer a wide range of high-quality, premium undergarments and swimwear made through a careful, detail-oriented process with strict quality control. Our products combine elegance, comfort, and durability.
Ready to dive into a more beautiful swimwear experience? Visit our website and explore the full swimwear collection from Diana Intimates today!
FAQ
Can I store swimsuits in plastic bags or ziplocks?
It's okay temporarily, like for travel, but don’t use plastic bags for long-term storage as they trap moisture and can lead to mildew. Go for breathable cotton or mesh pouches instead.
How do I store wet swimsuits when I’m traveling?
Bring a waterproof wet bag or a silicone pouch. Make sure to unpack and air-dry them as soon as you get home!
Is it okay to iron swimsuits to get wrinkles out?
No! High heat can melt or warp the elastic and spandex. Instead, try smoothing wrinkles with your hand after air-drying or laying them flat with a towel on top and gently pressing.
