Why Does My Swimwear Fade and Stretch in Chlorine?

The Culprits: Chlorine verse Lycra swimwear

Chlorine is a powerful disinfectant used in swimming pools to keep the water clean and safe. However, it is also a harsh chemical that can wreak havoc on swimwear fabrics.

Traditional swimwear is often made from Lycra (spandex) blends. These materials provide great stretch and comfort. However, they are especially prone to damage from chlorine. Here’s why:

1. Chemical Reaction: Chlorine interacts with Lycra fibers, breaking down the elasticity and weakening the fabric structure. This reaction causes the material to lose its stretch, leading to a loose and saggy fit over time.
2. Chlorine Expansion: When swimwear dries after being in chlorinated water, the chlorine can form crystals when it drys. These crystals can expand in the fabric fibers. This expansion can cause the fibers to snap, further degrading the material's elasticity and strength.
3. Colour Fading: Chlorine acts as a bleaching agent. Lycra fibers can easily fade in colour because of chlorine. The chlorine molecules break down the dye pigments in the fabric. This results in dull, washed-out colors after repeated exposure.

Polyester: The Chlorine-Proof Swimwear Champion

In contrast, 100% polyester swimwear is renowned for its superior resistance to chlorine. Here’s what makes polyester the better choice for swimwear durability:

1. Chemical Stability: Polyester fibers are inherently more resistant to chlorine than Lycra. The molecular structure of polyester is less reactive to chlorine. This means it keeps its strength and elasticity even after many swims.
2. Colour Retention: Polyester is also better at holding onto dye pigments. Sublimation printing is a popular method for printing on polyester. It works by infusing the dye into the fabric instead of just coating the surface. This ensures vibrant, long-lasting colors that resist fading, even with heavy chlorine exposure.

Sublimation Printing: The Art of Longevity

Sublimation printing is a game-changer for swimwear. It improves both the look and durability of the fabric.

1. Deep Dye Penetration: Sublimation printing puts the dye right into the polyester fibers. This makes the color part of the fabric. This deep penetration makes the colors more resistant to external factors like chlorine, UV rays, and washing.
2. Design Creativity: This printing method creates high-resolution, full-colour designs. These designs do not peel, crack, or fade easily. Perfect for creating unique, vibrant chlorine resistant swimwear that stands out in both style and longevity.

Best Practices for Fit and Care

Choosing the right swimwear for training and maintaining it properly can significantly extend its life. Here are some tips:

1. Perfect Fit: Ensure your chlorine resistant swimwear fits snugly but comfortably. Ill-fitting swimwear can stretch out more quickly. When trying on swimwear, move around to ensure it stays in place and maintains its shape. 100% polyester swimwear rends to feel bigger when in the water.
2. Rinse Immediately: After swimming, rinse your swimwear in cold, fresh water as soon as possible. This helps remove chlorine, salt, and other chemicals that can damage the fabric.
3. Gentle Washing: Hand wash your training swimwear with mild detergent. Avoid using harsh detergents, bleach, or fabric softeners, as these can further break down the fibers.
4. Drying: Lay your swimwear flat to dry in the shade. Avoid wringing it out, as this can distort the shape. Never use a dryer or hang it in direct sunlight, as excessive heat can weaken the fibers and fade colors.
5. Rotation: If you swim frequently, consider rotating between several swimsuits. This allows each one to recover and maintain its elasticity better.

Swim Training and Sports Swimwear

For competitive swimmers and those who engage in regular swim training, the choice of swimwear becomes even more critical. Training swimsuits are subjected to frequent and prolonged exposure to chlorinated water, making durability a top priority. Here’s why 100% polyester swimwear is the go-to choice for athletes:

1. Endurance: Polyester swimwear can withstand the daily rigors of swim practice without losing its shape or fit. This is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and comfort in the water.
2. Consistency: Swimmers need swimwear that performs consistently over time. Polyester resists chlorine, so the swimsuit keeps its qualities. This gives the support and compression needed for competitive swimming.
3. Vibrancy: Competitive swimmers often represent teams and sponsors, making the appearance of their swimwear important. Sublimation-printed polyester swimwear maintains its vibrant colors and logos, ensuring athletes look professional and cohesive.

Understanding the science behind swimwear materials and their interactions with chlorine can help you make informed decisions. Lycra swimwear is comfortable and stretchy.

On the other hand, 100% polyester swimwear is stronger and holds its colour better in chlorinated water. This is especially true for swimwear with sublimation printing. For athletes and frequent swimmers, and people using heated pools this means more consistent performance, longevity, and professional appearance.

By following best practices for fit and care, you can ensure your swimwear stays vibrant and in shape, swim after swim. For durable swimwear that lasts in chlorine, look at the new collections from Fashion Fish Designs.