Scrub Away Sunscreen Stains

While you're soaking up the summer sun, your swimwear is probably soaking up sunscreen, too. Sunblock, tanning oil, and SPF stains are practically unavoidable this time of year, but with the right pretreat process, you can keep lathering on the lotion without worrying about yellowed bikinis or dingy cover-ups.

Before You Begin

Tackle Greasy Spots for Good

Did you know your swimsuit can last longer than a single season with the right care? Sunscreen, saltwater, perspiration, and chlorine can all take a toll on fabrics over time, leading to discoloration, odors, and premature wear. While stains may not appear immediately, sunscreen residue can oxidize and yellow over time if left untreated. For best results, pretreat and wash swimwear as soon as possible after wearing.

Step 1: Pretreat After The Beach Retreat

Use Stain Solution to pretreat sunscreen stains and other stain-prone areas of your swimsuit. (Psst... it works on makeup, grass, dirt, and oil, too.)

We recommend working the solution into the fabric using our specially designed Stain Brush, paying extra attention to straps, waistbands, underwire areas, and anywhere sunscreen tends to accumulate.

Step 2: Take The Plunge

Turn your swimsuit inside out and place it in a Mesh Bag to help protect delicate fabrics, ties, clasps, and embellishments.

Select a delicate cycle, low spin, and cool water.

Add Activewear Detergent to help remove sunscreen, sweat, chlorine, and odor-causing buildup while restoring freshness to swimwear and performance fabrics. Its enzyme-powered formula delivers a deep clean while helping maintain the stretch, shape, and feel of your favorite suits.

Step 3: Rinse Off

Once the cycle is complete, promptly remove your swimsuit from the washer. Gently reshape the fabric and avoid wringing or twisting, which can damage elastic fibers and affect fit over time.

If you use mineral-based sunscreen or tanning oil, avoid white swimwear whenever possible, as these products can sometimes cause yellowing that is difficult to remove. At the very least, rinse suits thoroughly after wearing and wash them as soon as possible to help prevent buildup from setting into the fabric.

Step 4: All Dried Out

Lay your swimsuit flat to dry. To help preserve elasticity and color, avoid direct sunlight and always skip the dryer. High heat can weaken fibers and reduce stretch recovery over time.

Air drying is the best way to maintain the fit, feel, and performance of your swimwear season after season.

Hot (Tub) Tip

Jacuzzis and hot tubs can be especially tough on swimwear due to their combination of high temperatures and concentrated chemicals. Be sure to rinse or wash suits as soon as possible after every soak to help preserve color, elasticity, and overall fabric performance.