The long wait for bikini weather is finally over! If your favorite bathing suit is full of wrinkles after spending the past months stuffed into the back of a drawer or container, you may be wondering, is it safe to iron a bathing suit?
There are several ways to help restore your bathing suit back to its original condition and shape and we will discuss that in a moment.
But let’s first address the main question.
Is it safe to iron a bathing suit?
No. It is not safe to iron a bathing suit. Most swimwear is made with synthetic materials, like polyester, nylon, polypropylene, Lycra, or spandex. These fabrics have a low melting point and will burn or can be damaged if iron is placed directly on them.
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Most bathing suits contain a warning about machine drying or the use of an iron.
While it is not safe to iron a bathing suit, that doesn’t mean you can’t do it.
Can you iron a bathing suit?
Yes. The best way to get wrinkles out of polyester, nylon, or spandex is to steam the fabric or place it in the dryer on a permanent press setting.
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Ironing your bathing suit using a low-heat setting can also remove wrinkles. Remember, the synthetic fibers in this clothing can melt when exposed to high heat, so special caution must be taken when exposing this fabric to iron.
How to get wrinkles out of a bathing suit?
The best way to get wrinkles out of polyester clothing is to steam the material or place it in the dryer on a permanent press setting. You can also iron using a low-heat setting that can remove wrinkles.
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The good news is the higher the polyester content of the fabric, the more wrinkle-free it is. This is the reason you see high polyester levels in clothing, like wrinkle-free shirts and pants.
The Hand Held Steamer Method
The safest way to get creases out of polyester clothing is by using a handheld steamer. If you don’t have one, a handheld steamer is a good investment. They are easy to use, very portable, and can be used on a wide range of clothes, from your favorite bathing suit to dress shirts and slacks.
1. To begin, flip your article of clothing inside out and hang it on your shower curtain rod or hook on the back of your bathroom or bedroom door.
2. Fill your steamer and allow it to properly heat up.
3. Hold the steamer so the steam nozzle remains at least an inch away from your clothing, and move it slowly up and down. It is good to start out a couple of inches away when starting out until you get the hang of using the steamer.
4. While using the steamer, use caution to avoid steaming your arm or hand
The Cold Water Method
- To get the wrinkles out of your bathing suit, start by rinsing it using cold water
- Gently fold and squeeze the bathing suit to remove excess water. Do you wring it out like a dish towel as that can damage the fabric and leave your swimwear misshapen?
- Place your bathing suit flat on a bath towel and let it air dry
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The Low Heat Dryer Method
If you don’t mind the risk, using a dryer in the low heat setting can also be useful for getting rid of wrinkles.
The dryer can be effective in removing wrinkles if your suit has a high cotton content.
- Place the suit into the dryer along with a damp towel
- Turn on the dryer to its lowest heat setting and leave for about 5 – 10 minutes. Be sure to watch the time.
- Once the time is up, promptly remove your bathing suit from the dryer.
Is it safe to iron a bathing suit? – Care Tips
Bathing suits are typically made from synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, and spandex. These fabrics are sensitive to heat and can be damaged if not handled properly. Ironing is generally not recommended for swimwear due to the risk of melting or burning the fabric. However, there are safe methods to remove wrinkles and maintain your bathing suit’s appearance.
Using a Clothes Steamer
A handheld clothes steamer is an effective tool for removing wrinkles from delicate fabrics, including swimwear. Steamers provide gentle heat that relaxes fibers without direct contact, reducing the risk of damage. According to experts, steamers are essential for gentle and effective garment care, offering a versatile alternative to traditional irons.
Steps to Steam Your Bathing Suit:
- Preparation: Turn your bathing suit inside out and hang it on a sturdy hanger.
- Steamer Setup: Fill the steamer with water and allow it to heat up fully.
- Steaming Process: Hold the steamer nozzle about an inch away from the fabric. Move it slowly over the wrinkled areas, allowing the steam to penetrate and relax the fibers.
- Drying: After steaming, let the bathing suit air dry completely before wearing or storing it.
Alternative Methods to Remove Wrinkles
If a steamer isn’t available, consider these methods:
- Shower Steam: Hang your bathing suit in the bathroom while taking a hot shower. The steam can help relax wrinkles. Ensure the suit doesn’t get wet, and allow it to air dry afterward.
- Hair Dryer: Lightly dampen the wrinkled areas of the suit. Using a hair dryer on a low heat setting, hold it a few inches away and move it over the damp spots until the wrinkles release.
- Cold Water Rinse: Rinse the bathing suit in cold water, gently press out excess water without wringing, lay it flat on a towel, and reshape it. Let it air dry away from direct sunlight.
Preventing Wrinkles in Bathing Suits
To minimize wrinkles and maintain the quality of your swimwear:
- Proper Storage: Store your bathing suit flat or hanging to prevent creases. Avoid folding or cramming it into tight spaces.
- Immediate Care: After swimming, rinse your suit in cold water to remove chlorine or salt, which can degrade the fabric.
- Avoid High Heat: Never use high heat settings in dryers or place your suit in direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can cause fading and fabric damage.
By following these care methods, you can keep your bathing suit looking fresh and wrinkle-free, ensuring it remains a staple in your swimwear collection for seasons to come.
Claudia Faucher is a full-time fitness training expert and lifestyle blogger. She is also been a certified Les Mills BodyPump instructor for the past 5 years and a fitness instructor for over 20 years. Claudia is a personal trainer and creates fitness training programs for seniors and people of all ages. She likes to use her skills and experiences to help others on their fitness journeys.