Featuring Vintage Swimwear Care and Storage Advice
How to properly store and care for delicate vintage swimwear fabrics helps preserve valuable pieces, which promotes longevity and respect for vintage garments. These instructions apply whether you have purchased or inherited old swimwear that needs to be restored or are looking after something new but fragile. There is no need to spend money on expensive conservationists if you take the time to learn about proper storage and cleaning methods. Follow these tips for an enduring wardrobe staple that looks great year after year.
The Fabric Matters
Vintage swimwear tends to fall into three basic fabric categories: silk, cotton, and synthetic. They each have unique traits which require different treatment. Silk is soft and strong, yet wrinkles easily. Cotton tends to fade or shrink. Synthetic fabrics hold their shape better than either of those materials but can wear out faster because they aren't as breathable as natural fibers. Knowing what your swimsuit is made from will help you determine its ideal care routine. You may find it helpful to keep notes in a notebook so that future generations know how to look after the item(s) when passed down.
Silk Maintenance
Sunlight and humidity are enemies of silk. Store vintage swimwear in a dry, cool place with little exposure to air movement. Avoid plastic bags since this material traps moisture next to the textiles. Keep away from other fabrics (especially rough ones like denim), metal hooks, and sharp objects that could tear or snag. Do not use iron, laundry detergent, bleach, or harsh chemicals on silk - instead spot-clean with lukewarm water and mild soap. Dry-clean only if absolutely necessary. Silk needs extra caution because it can be damaged by heat or chemicals if washed incorrectly.
Cotton Care and Storage Tips
Do not wash cotton swimsuits unless they are extremely dirty; however, if you do need to clean them, machine wash on cold with gentle cycle and line dry. Do not put them in the dryer because high temperatures cause fabric to warp and age prematurely. Cotton fabric loses elasticity over time so choose items that fit well at purchase to avoid stretching into uncomfortable garments. Stain removal depends on color but most stains come out better when treated quickly rather than allowed to set. Treat any holes or rips right away before small tears become bigger issues.
Synthetic Suit Care
Machine wash synthetics separately from delicates using cold water and mild detergent. Line dry for best results; don't put in the dryer since heat may cause shrinkage or discoloration. Use a low setting for tumble drying and remove immediately once finished. Synthetic materials can lose their shape over time due to wear and tear, so repair ripped seams as soon as possible. Choose clothes made of this material carefully because they require more attention than others types of fabrics.
While vintage bathing suits may seem like an afterthought compared to other clothing pieces, proper care can ensure they last just as long (or even longer) than newer ones. Take good notes while storing your favorite vintage garments so future generations know how to keep them looking great!
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