A Bikini That Will Last You Till You’re 100?*

Here’s How to Keep Your Surf & Swimwear Looking New for Years

Your favourite surf bikini isn’t just swimwear,  it’s your partner in crime.
It’s paddled through long sessions, held tight through wipeouts, survived reef walks, sunrise missions, salt, sun, scooters, and every tropical adventure in between.

*And while no bikini will literally last until you’re 100, the right care can make your surf-wear pieces last years longer than most people think.

Here’s exactly how to keep your swimwear strong, supportive, and ready for every session.

1. Rinse After Every Surf or Swim

Saltwater is stunning for the soul but harsh on fabric.
After every session, rinse your bikini in fresh, cool water, especially if you surf often. Giving a little extra love to adjustable details like ties and sliders, where care matters most.
This removes salt, sand, sunscreen, and the invisible buildup that slowly weakens performance fabrics and accessories. 

2. Hand Wash Like Your Surf Sessions Depend on It

Your washing machine is the enemy of elastic.
Even on delicate mode, the agitation stretches and breaks down fibres, especially the ones that keep your surf bikini staying snug during a duck dive.

Hand wash with a gentle soap, swirl, rinse, and air-dry. Simple and effective.

3. Be Gentle With Surf Wax & Sunscreen

Surf wax and thick mineral sunscreen can cling to bikini fabric.
If wax gets on your suit, use your fingertips to lightly peel it off,  don’t scrape with hard objects.
For sunscreen stains, use a mild eco friendly detergent and cool water only.

 

4. Shade Dry Only, Your Bikini Hates UV More Than You Do

We all love the sun, but prolonged UV exposure breaks down technical swim fabrics faster than anything.
Always dry your bikini in the shade, laid flat. Never wring, twist, or hang by the straps.

5. Rotate Your Surf Bikinis

If you surf daily (lucky you), give your bikini a day to rest.
Technical fabrics need time for the elastic to bounce back, this prevents sagging and keeps your fit secure during long sessions.

6. Avoid Sitting on Your Board or Rough Surfaces

The tail pad, rocks, sand, and pool edges can snag and pill fabrics.
Use a towel or sit on your board’s wax-free area whenever possible.
A tiny habit that saves your bikini’s lifespan.

7. Don’t Leave It Damp in Your Surf Bag

This is the fastest way to age a bikini meant for performance.
Trapped moisture can weaken fibres, warp elasticity, and create odour.
Always dry fully before storing, especially in tropical humidity.

8. Treat Your Surf Bikini Like Gear, Not Regular Clothing

Your surf bikini is built for movement, saltwater, and sun, but it still needs proper care.
Store it flat, keep it clean, and avoid pulling on straps excessively when wet.

Respect Your Bikini & It Will Respect You Back

With the right routine, your favourite surf-wear pieces can stay supportive, flattering, and session-ready for many years.
Caring for your bikini means better performance, better fit, and fewer replacements, which is good for the planet and your wallet.

A long-lasting bikini = more waves, more freedom, more memories.