What to do with a damaged swimsuit ?

Swimsuits are one of those garments that, despite their often high price, tend to wear out quickly. Between chlorinated pool water, sea salt, sunscreen and repeated friction, even high-quality pieces eventually show signs of fatigue. Rather than giving in to the temptation to throw them away and buy new ones, why not consider more sustainable alternatives?

Every year, millions of swimsuits end up in landfills. This buy–use–discard cycle has a significant impact on the environment, especially since most swimsuits contain synthetic fibres that take decades to break down. Not to mention the impact on your wallet…

In this article, you will discover 5 creative approaches to extend the life of your favourite swimsuit: a precise damage assessment, simple repair techniques, creative transformations, useful upcycling and preventive care methods. These solutions are suitable for both budding sewists and complete beginners.

1. Identifying damage on your swimsuit

1.1 The different types of deterioration

Before starting any repair, it is essential to correctly identify the problem. The most common types of damage are quite characteristic:

• Slack elastics: The swimsuit no longer stays in place and forms unflattering folds.
• Fraying fabric: Small threads escape from seams or friction areas.
• Discolouration: The fabric has yellowed or faded in places, especially after exposure to chlorine.
• Worn cups: The padding shows through or loses its shape, creating an unattractive effect.

In some cases, damage can appear after only a few uses, especially with mid-range swimsuits exposed to intensive chlorine in public pools.

1.2 Assessing whether your swimsuit can be saved

Not every swimsuit necessarily deserves a second chance. Here are a few signs that repair is worth considering:

First, examine the overall quality of the fabric. If it is still strong and stretchy in the undamaged areas, that is a good sign. Gently stretch an intact section – the fabric should bounce back to its original shape without effort. If, on the other hand, the swimsuit has become see-through, excessively stretched out or the fabric crumbles to the touch, it may be time to consider alternatives to classic repair.

To test elasticity, lightly stretch the fabric between your fingers. A good swimsuit, even when used, retains some resistance and recovers its shape. Seams should also remain firm when you gently pull on them.

2. Quick fixes: simple sewing techniques

2.1 Tools you need to repair a swimsuit

Before you begin the rescue mission on your swimsuit, make sure you have:

• Fine needles suitable for stretch fabrics (size 70/10 or 80/12)
• Special swimwear thread or strong, water-resistant polyester stretch thread
• Precision scissors to cleanly cut synthetic fabrics
• Flat-head pins that will not damage delicate fabric
• Double-sided fabric tape for temporary fixes or to stabilise before sewing

For more complex repairs, a thimble and tailor’s chalk can be helpful. If you have a sewing machine, be sure to use a special presser foot for stretch fabrics and stretch needles, otherwise you risk damaging the fabric even more. 🧵

Invisible threads are particularly recommended for discreet repairs, while coloured threads can become a deliberate decorative feature if you opt for visible customisation.

2.2 Step-by-step tutorial for tears

Fixing a tear in a swimsuit may seem daunting, but with the right technique it is perfectly manageable. To create invisible stitches, start by turning the swimsuit inside out and carefully aligning the edges of the tear. Use fine pins to hold both sides together, making sure not to overstretch the fabric.

The modified backstitch works particularly well on this type of fabric. Pass the needle diagonally under the top layer of fibres rather than straight through, taking only a small amount of fabric with each stitch. This method preserves the elasticity while still ensuring a strong repair.

To reinforce weak seams so they do not split again:

• Double the original seam with a parallel line of stitching
• Apply fusible tape designed for stretch fabrics on the inside
• Distribute the tension by spacing your stitches evenly

If you do not have a sewing machine, use a hand overcast stitch. This flexible stitch adapts well to the fabric’s movement when you swim or walk. Always finish with a discreet knot hidden between fabric layers.

2.3 Replacing worn-out elastics

Elastics that have lost their spring are often the reason a swimsuit gapes unflatteringly. To replace them, look for elastics specifically designed for swimwear in specialist haberdashery stores or online. The ideal width depends on the placement: narrow for straps (3–5 mm) and wider for edges (7–10 mm).

Removing old elastics takes patience and care. First locate the stitching line that gives access to the elastic, usually at the back or side. Carefully unpick a few centimetres, then gently pull the old elastic out without damaging the fabric. Keep it intact so you can measure the replacement accurately.

To insert the new elastic, attach a safety pin to one end to help guide it through the fabric casing. The new elastic should be slightly shorter than the original (around 10%) to ensure good support. Secure both ends before closing the opening with invisible stitches.

3. Transforming your swimsuit with creativity

3.1 From one-piece to trendy bikini

A damaged one-piece can enjoy a second life as a bikini. To make this transformation work, focus on the sections of fabric that are still in good condition. A simple pattern idea is to cut off the top to create a triangle bikini top and use the lower part to make a brief.

The key is strategic cutting. Lay the swimsuit flat and draw your cutting lines with tailor’s chalk. Feel free to use an existing bikini as a reference for proportions. Always leave a 1–1.5 cm seam allowance.

The original straps can be reused. Adding metal rings at connection points gives a modern touch and helps adapt the fit to your body shape.

3.2 Adding decorative details

Customisation is a clever way to hide imperfections while creating a one-of-a-kind piece. Beads and water-resistant sequins can be sewn onto strategic areas to cover discolouration or light wear marks. Choose decorations made of plastic or treated glass that can withstand repeated swims.

To secure these embellishments firmly, use transparent nylon thread and pass the needle through several times. A small amount of waterproof fabric glue can reinforce larger pieces, but allow a full 24 hours of drying time before exposing the swimsuit to water.

Easy-to-recreate trends include crochet panels, rhinestones and beads. For a fresh look, add charms or gems to bikini ties to instantly upgrade a basic piece.

3.3 Combining several damaged swimsuits

When two or three swimsuits are each too damaged to save individually, combining them can result in a truly original creation. The trick is to match fabrics not by colour, but by similar stretch and thickness. Fabrics with different properties may stretch unevenly and lose shape.

For a harmonious patchwork effect, cut simple geometric shapes (triangles, rectangles) and assemble them by alternating colours or patterns. An asymmetric design often makes it easier to disguise reclaimed sections.

The results can be spectacular. A faded black swimsuit combined with a printed one whose elastic is shot can become a stylish two-tone bikini. The possibilities are endless and limited only by your creativity and available materials.

4. Smart upcycling: giving your swimsuit new uses

4.1 Practical bath-time accessories

When repair is no longer an option, swimsuit fabric still has valuable properties that can be put to good use. Its water resistance and stretch make it an ideal material for creating functional accessories.

A water-resistant pouch is easy to make from the bottom half of a swimsuit. Simply sew up the leg openings, add a zip salvaged from an old garment, and you have a case perfect for protecting your phone or small items from splashes by the pool.

The stretchy fabric also makes great headbands or soft turbans. These accessories are particularly useful for keeping hair in place while swimming or protecting sensitive ears. A few basic stitches are enough to shape them, even if you have very little sewing experience.

4.2 Upcycled everyday objects

Swimsuit fabric can be useful well beyond the beach. Its water-repellent nature makes it ideal for protective covers for electronic devices. A smartphone slipped into a pouch made from an old swimsuit will stay dry even with wet hands.

Handy tip: patterned fabrics are perfect for small jewellery pouches that are easy to spot in a suitcase. You can line them with a softer fabric to protect delicate pieces during travel. Otherwise, you can turn them into all sorts of small storage bags.

4.3 Ideas for home and garden

In the garden, elastic strips cut from old swimsuits make a gentle alternative to hard ties for plants. These colourful ties support stems without damaging them and stand up well to bad weather, unlike many standard ties that deteriorate quickly.

At home, leftover fabric can be sewn into decorative sachets ideal for storing small items or holding dried flowers and scented blends. The bright colours of swimsuits bring a summery touch to your decor, reminding you of holidays even in the middle of winter.

5. Preventive care: extending the life of your new swimsuits

5.1 Care rituals after each use

Swimsuit durability starts with a few simple habits as soon as you get out of the water. A quick rinse in fresh water, even a basic one, removes aggressive substances such as chlorine, salt and sunscreen that gradually weaken fibres.

Drying is a crucial yet often overlooked step. Avoid wringing your swimsuit hard, as this will damage its elasticity. Instead, gently press it in a towel, then let it air-dry in the shade, preferably laid flat. Direct sun exposure speeds up colour fading.

When it comes to washing, always opt for hand-washing with a mild detergent suitable for delicate fabrics. Regular detergents contain harsh agents that attack elastic fibres. An occasional delicate machine cycle in a laundry bag is acceptable, but should not be the norm.

5.2 Solutions against chlorine and UV

Chlorine is swimsuit fabric’s number one enemy. To neutralise its corrosive effect, some frequent swimmers use products such as anti-chlorine shampoos that can also help on textiles. A more accessible option is soaking the swimsuit in a mixture of water and white vinegar (one part vinegar to four parts water) for 30 minutes after each pool session.

To protect against UV rays, which fade colours and weaken fibres, a few precautions are useful. There are textile protection sprays you can apply at the start of the season. More simply, keeping your swimsuit in the shade between dips or covering it with a towel already helps limit exposure.

To revive dull colours, a bath in Epsom salt (two tablespoons per litre of cold water) for about an hour can work wonders, especially on darker shades. 🧴

5.3 Off-season storage tips

How you store your swimsuit between seasons often determines the condition you find it in next summer. To fold it properly, lay it flat, right sides together, then fold it into thirds without putting pressure on the elastics or cups. This prevents deep creases and helps retain its original shape.

Ideal storage conditions are dry, cool and away from direct light. A drawer lined with acid-free tissue paper makes an excellent storage space. Avoid plastic boxes, which can trap moisture and encourage mould.

For extra protection against damp and pests, place a few silica gel sachets (reused from shoe or bag packaging) near your swimsuits. These natural moisture absorbers help prevent mould without any chemical products.

Conclusion

When faced with a damaged swimsuit, there are plenty of options. From simple repairs to complete transformations and creative upcycling, every solution helps extend the lifespan of these technical textiles while reducing your environmental impact.

These alternatives to constantly buying new pieces fit into a broader mindset of responsible consumption. By repairing, transforming and recycling, each of us contributes in our own way to reducing textile waste, which is a major issue for the planet.

Sustainable fashion is not only about buying eco-friendly items, but also about how we care for and extend the life of what we already own. These simple, accessible actions show how easy it can be to combine beach enjoyment with genuine respect for the environment.