<tc>How to take care of a surf swimsuit ?</tc>

How to extend the life of your surf swimsuit ? Between surf sessions, this technical garment faces salt, sun, and friction. Proper care that respects the ocean helps prevent pollution and waste while maintaining both comfort and performance. Discover our best tips to clean, dry, and preserve your swimsuit so you can surf longer—without harming the environment. 🌊

Why Surf Swimwear Requires Special Care

The Unique Challenges of the Marine Environment

A surf swimsuit endures far harsher conditions than a regular pool suit. Saltwater, highly corrosive, seeps into fibers and can weaken the fabric if not properly rinsed out. Pool chlorine isn’t gentler, and constant UV exposure gradually breaks down the material.

The repetitive movements of surfing—paddling, popping up, maneuvering—put significant mechanical strain on fabrics. Friction against the board adds further wear that can quickly damage a poorly maintained suit.

Contrary to popular belief, modern technical materials (recycled polyester, elastane) require different care from traditional fabrics. Their composition, engineered to resist the elements, calls for specific maintenance methods.

The Ecological Impact of Poor Maintenance

Each wash releases invisible plastic microparticles. These microfibers, too small for wastewater filters, end up in the ocean—up to 700,000 microscopic fibers per wash enter the marine food chain.

A prematurely worn-out swimsuit also leads to replacement—and thus new production, bringing its share of environmental costs. From raw material extraction to manufacturing, shipping, and packaging, each new item creates a significant carbon footprint.

Aggressive detergents and fabric softeners used during washing pose another threat, as they contain harmful chemicals that disrupt marine ecosystems and aquatic life.

Post-Surf Ritual: Essential Habits After Each Use

Immediate Rinsing—A Crucial First Step

The most important and often overlooked action is thoroughly rinsing your swimsuit with fresh water right after surfing. This removes salt, sand, and chlorine before they can embed in the fibers.

Recommended method:

• Use cold or lukewarm water—never hot

• Rinse both inside and outside

• Focus on seams and elastic areas

• Gently press out water without wringing

If no shower is nearby, keep a bottle of fresh water in your beach bag or car to rinse after sessions. 🏄

Without rinsing, salt crystals act like microscopic abrasives, causing stiffness, fading colors, and loss of elasticity—all preventable with this simple step.

Optimal Drying to Preserve Fibers

After rinsing, drying technique is key to longevity. Direct sunlight, though tempting, is one of the main causes of premature damage. UV rays fade fabrics and weaken fibers.

Lay the swimsuit flat on a clean towel in a shaded, ventilated spot. This allows even drying without stretching elastics.

Avoid wringing, which distorts fabric structure. For travelers, roll the suit in a towel and press gently to absorb moisture—an efficient, fiber-safe technique.

Never use dryers: heat damages elastics and can shrink fabrics. Prefer cool-air drying racks meant for delicate clothing.

Eco-Friendly Washing Techniques

Ocean-Safe Cleaning Solutions

Detergent choice plays a crucial role in protecting your gear and the ocean. Conventional products often contain harsh surfactants and synthetic fragrances that persist and pollute.

Opt for biodegradable, phosphate-free detergents made for technical fabrics. They remove sunscreen, salt, and residue effectively while limiting environmental impact.

Eco alternatives:

• A mix of lukewarm water and white vinegar (1:3 ratio) neutralizes odors

• Baking soda in the soaking water neutralizes chlorine and refreshes fibers

• Pure Marseille soap, grated and diluted, offers a gentle, sustainable cleaning option

Avoid bleach, fabric softeners, and enzyme-heavy detergents—they destroy elasticity and fabric integrity. 🧴

Material-Specific Washing Methods

Different fabrics need tailored care. Recycled polyester is strong but still sensitive.

For hand washing (ideal method):

1. Fill a basin with cold or lukewarm water

2. Add a small amount of mild detergent

3. Soak for 15–20 minutes

4. Gently rub dirt without twisting

5. Rinse thoroughly to remove soap

Machine washing is possible occasionally—use a delicate cycle, cold water, a protective mesh bag, and preferably a special microplastic-filtering laundry bag. Still, minimize machine washes to preserve the fabric’s lifespan.

Storage Between Surf Seasons

Preparing for Long-Term Storage

End-of-season care ensures your gear stays flawless. Perform a deep clean to remove invisible residues, and let it dry completely before storage to avoid mold.

For a natural antimicrobial touch, slip in dried lavender or bay leaves to deter insects and keep a fresh scent—eco-friendly and chemical-free.

Ideal Storage Conditions

The best environment: darkness (to avoid fading), moderate temperature, and low humidity. Avoid plastic boxes that trap moisture; breathable cotton bags or fabric pouches are preferable.

Do not fold tightly; instead, roll or lay flat to prevent permanent creases and fiber stress.

How to Repair a Swimsuit

Diagnosing Common Damage

Even high-quality surf swimwear will show wear over time. Early detection allows easy fixes.

Typical issues:

• Loose elastics → caused by sun, chlorine, or heat

• Loose seams in high-tension areas → from repeated friction

• Fading → shows fiber degradation

DIY and Professional Repair Solutions

Many repairs are simple. To fix stretched elastics, sew a new elastic alongside the old one with a stretch stitch.

For undone seams, use strong polyester thread resistant to saltwater and UV, and an elastic-fabric needle. An overlock stitch gives durable results.

Eco tip: Create a small repair kit with recycled thread, needles, and fabric scraps for patches.
Plant-based dyes can help revive faded areas naturally.

For major tears or neoprene repairs, professional surfwear workshops are recommended. 🧵

Choosing a Durable Swimsuit from the Start

Eco-Friendly Materials to Favor

Durability begins with design. Recycled polyester stands out as a sustainable option, transforming plastic bottles into resilient performance fibers.

Other innovations include fabrics made from plant oils, algae fibers, or upcycled ocean waste. Seek trusted certifications like GRS (Global Recycle Standard) for recycled materials and OEKO-TEX® for absence of harmful substances. Jubai Swimwear garments meet these standards to minimize environmental impact.

Design Features That Extend Lifespan

Details like flatlock seams reduce friction and strengthen durability.
UV-resistant finishes prevent fading and fiber breakdown without toxic chemicals.
Ergonomic cuts and enclosed elastics ensure comfort and resistance during active sessions.

Conclusion

Caring for your surf swimsuit goes beyond saving money—it’s an act of ocean preservation. From rinsing and air-drying to repairing minor wear, every step helps reduce waste and microplastic pollution.

Sustainable care means longer-lasting gear, less chemical runoff, and fewer replacements—a win for marine ecosystems.

By choosing durable, eco-certified pieces like those from Jubai Swimwear and following respectful care practices, every surfer becomes part of a broader movement for ocean health.

Discover our eco-friendly swimwear collection designed to last season after season—helping preserve what matters most: the beauty and vitality of our oceans.

Q&A : Everything About Surf Swimwear Care

How to remove chlorine odors?

Soak for 30 minutes in lukewarm water with 2 tablespoons of baking soda, then rinse thoroughly.

Can I use fabric softener?

No. It coats fibers, reducing elasticity and breathability. Use white vinegar instead as a natural softener.

How often should I wash my surf swimsuit?

Rinse after every session; wash fully every 3–4 uses or after sunscreen exposure.

How to prevent UV fading?

Dry in the shade. Some textile UV-protection sprays exist—choose non-toxic ones.

Do eco-friendly swimsuits require special care?

Generally, the same rules apply, but gentler washing is recommended. Always check the manufacturer’s care guide.