How to Care for TomboyX Swimwear: Tips for Long-Lasting Fabric

Quick Answer

To keep your TomboyX swimwear in top condition, rinse it in cold water immediately after swimming, hand wash with a mild detergent, and lay it flat to dry away from direct sunlight. Avoid wringing, bleach, and machine drying to protect the fabric's stretch and color.

TomboyX swimwear is designed for confidence and comfort, whether you're wearing the Swim Packing Brief or the color-changing Swim 6" Unisuit. But to keep that fabric performing swim after swim, a little care goes a long way. Chlorine, saltwater, and sun can take a toll if you don't rinse and wash properly.

The good news: you don't need special products or complicated routines. With a few simple habits, you can extend the life of your swimwear and keep it looking as good as the day you bought it. Here’s how to wash, dry, and store your TomboyX swim pieces.

Why Proper Care Matters for Swimwear Fabric

Swimwear fabric is engineered for stretch and quick drying, but it's also more delicate than everyday underwear. Chlorine and saltwater can break down elastic fibers over time, while UV rays can fade colors. For TomboyX swimwear, which uses durable, eco-friendly fabric with 4-way stretch, a little preventative care helps maintain that fit and feel.

Many swim pieces also feature special details—like the water-activated jellyfish print on the Swim 6" Unisuit—that can be affected by harsh chemicals or excessive heat. Understanding what your swimwear is made of helps you choose the right care routine.

• Always check the care label for specific instructions, but these general tips work for most swimwear.

Rinse Immediately After Swimming

The single best thing you can do for your swimwear is rinse it in cool, fresh water as soon as you get out of the pool or ocean. This removes chlorine, salt, and sand that can degrade the fabric over time. If you can't rinse right away, at least shake off excess water and store your swimwear in a wet bag until you can.

Do not let your swimwear sit damp in a gym bag or towel for hours. That creates a breeding ground for bacteria and can cause odors. A quick rinse takes less than a minute and makes a huge difference.

• Carry a small water bottle to the beach or pool for a quick rinse before you head home.

Hand Wash with Mild Detergent

Hand washing is the gentlest way to clean your swimwear. Fill a sink or basin with cool water and add a small amount of mild detergent—something free of bleach and fabric softeners. Submerge your swimwear and gently squeeze the fabric to work in the soap. Avoid scrubbing or twisting, which can damage the fibers.

Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear. If you need to remove stubborn sunscreen or stains, you can gently rub the area with your fingers, but never use a brush. For TomboyX swimwear with compression lining, like the Swim Tucking Hipster, extra care ensures the lining stays smooth and effective.

• Use a detergent designed for delicates or activewear to avoid harsh chemicals.

Machine Washing: When and How

If you prefer to machine wash, use a mesh laundry bag to protect your swimwear from snagging. Set your washer to a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water, and skip the spin cycle if possible. Use a mild detergent and avoid bleach or fabric softeners, as these can break down elastic and leave a residue that reduces absorbency.

Never wash your swimwear with heavy items like jeans or towels, which can cause friction and pilling. If you're washing multiple pieces, make sure they have room to move freely inside the bag.

• Zip the mesh bag closed to prevent straps or fabric from catching.

Drying: Skip the Dryer

Heat is the enemy of swimwear elastic. Never put your TomboyX swimwear in the dryer—it can cause shrinkage, warping, and damage to special features like color-changing prints. Instead, gently press out excess water with a clean towel, then lay the swimwear flat on a dry towel or drying rack.

Keep your swimwear out of direct sunlight, which can fade colors and weaken fibers. A well-ventilated, shaded spot is ideal. Avoid hanging swimwear by the straps, as the weight of wet fabric can stretch them out.

• Reshape your swimwear while it's damp to help it keep its form as it dries.

Storing Your Swimwear

Once your swimwear is completely dry, fold it neatly and store it in a drawer or a breathable fabric bag. Avoid plastic bags, which trap moisture and can cause mildew. Keep swimwear away from direct heat sources and sharp objects that could snag the fabric.

If you have multiple pieces, don't stack heavy items on top of them, as this can compress the padding or lining. For swimwear with special features, like the Swim Packing Brief's integrated pocket, proper storage helps maintain the pocket's shape and functionality.

• Store your swimwear flat or rolled to prevent creases and maintain elasticity.

Step-by-Step Care Routine

1. Rinse after every wear: Immediately after swimming, rinse your swimwear in cool fresh water to remove chlorine, salt, and sand. Squeeze out excess water gently—never wring. Checkpoint: Do this right after swimming to prevent fabric damage and odors.
2. Hand wash with mild detergent: Fill a basin with cool water and a small amount of gentle detergent. Submerge and gently squeeze the fabric, then rinse thoroughly until water runs clear. Checkpoint: Avoid bleach and fabric softeners; they break down elastic and reduce performance.
3. Dry flat, away from heat and sun: Press out excess water with a towel, then lay flat on a drying rack in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Never use a dryer or hang by straps. Checkpoint: Once dry, fold and store in a breathable bag to maintain shape and color.

How TomboyX Swimwear is Built to Last

• Swim Packing Brief: Engineered with a deep, integrated pocket to securely hold a soft FTM packer, this brief ensures all-day confidence whether you’re lounging poolside or taking a dip. Made from durable, eco-friendly swim fabric with 4-way stretch and quick-dry technology. The quick-dry fabric means less time damp, but you still need to rinse out chlorine and salt to keep the stretch and pocket shape intact.
• Swim 6" Unisuit: Reveal an aquatic surprise with our water-activated fabric. When dry, black keeps its secrets hidden. But splash some water on it, and watch as gray jellies emerge. The color-changing technology responds to water contact. This unique print is sensitive to harsh detergents and heat, so hand washing and air drying are essential to keep the effect vivid.

Caring for your TomboyX swimwear is straightforward: rinse, hand wash, and air dry. By avoiding harsh chemicals and high heat, you'll keep the fabric stretchy, the colors vibrant, and the special features—like the color-changing print—working as intended. Follow these steps, and your swimwear will be ready for many seasons of fun in the sun.