How Can You Effectively Get Sunscreen Out of a Bathing Suit?

AvatarByKristie Pacheco Skincare

There’s nothing quite like a sunny day at the beach or pool, but the aftermath can sometimes be less than perfect—especially when sunscreen leaves stubborn stains on your favorite bathing suit. Whether it’s the white residue or oily marks, sunscreen can be a tricky culprit to remove, threatening to dull the vibrant colors and delicate fabrics of your swimwear. If you’ve ever wondered how to restore your bathing suit to its fresh, clean state after a day in the sun, you’re not alone.

Understanding how sunscreen interacts with swimsuit materials is key to tackling those pesky stains effectively. The combination of oils, chemicals, and fabric fibers can create a challenge, making it important to approach the cleaning process with care and the right techniques. While it might be tempting to toss your suit into the wash and hope for the best, a thoughtful method can make all the difference in preserving both the look and longevity of your swimwear.

In the following sections, we’ll explore practical tips and proven strategies that will help you safely and efficiently get sunscreen out of your bathing suit. From simple home remedies to recommended products, you’ll gain the knowledge needed to keep your swimwear looking vibrant and fresh, ready for your next sunny adventure.

Effective Pre-Treatment Techniques for Sunscreen Stains

Before laundering your bathing suit, it is crucial to pre-treat the sunscreen stains to increase the chances of complete removal. Sunscreen is typically oil-based, which means that standard washing alone may not be sufficient to break down the residue. The following pre-treatment steps can help:

  • Rinse with cold water: Immediately rinse the stained area under cold running water to dilute the sunscreen and prevent it from setting deeper into the fabric fibers.
  • Apply a gentle solvent: Use a small amount of rubbing alcohol or a specialized stain remover designed for oily stains. Dab gently with a clean cloth to lift the sunscreen without damaging the fabric.
  • Use liquid dish soap: Liquid dish detergents contain surfactants that are effective against oily substances. Apply a few drops directly to the stain and gently work it into the fabric with your fingers or a soft-bristled brush.
  • Let it sit: Allow the pre-treatment to sit for at least 10–15 minutes to break down the oils before washing.

Remember to always test any product on a small, inconspicuous area of your bathing suit to check for colorfastness or damage.

Choosing the Right Washing Method

After pre-treating, selecting the appropriate washing method is vital to completely remove sunscreen stains while preserving the bathing suit’s integrity.

  • Hand washing: This is generally the safest method. Use cool water and a gentle detergent formulated for delicate fabrics or swimwear. Gently agitate the fabric and avoid wringing or twisting, which can stretch or damage the fibers.
  • Machine washing: If the bathing suit’s care label permits machine washing, use a delicate cycle with cold water. Place the suit inside a mesh laundry bag to protect it from friction and snagging.
  • Avoid bleach and fabric softeners: These can degrade the elastic fibers and cause discoloration or damage to the suit.
Washing Method Water Temperature Detergent Type Additional Tips
Hand Wash Cold Gentle, swimwear-specific or mild detergent Gently agitate, avoid wringing
Machine Wash Cold Delicate cycle detergent Use mesh laundry bag; avoid bleach and softeners

Post-Washing Care and Drying Tips

Proper drying techniques are essential to maintain the shape and elasticity of your bathing suit after removing sunscreen stains.

  • Air dry only: Avoid using a dryer, as high heat can damage the elastic fibers and cause shrinking.
  • Lay flat to dry: Place the bathing suit on a clean towel or drying rack, reshaping it gently to its original form. Hanging by straps can cause stretching.
  • Avoid direct sunlight: Prolonged sun exposure while drying can fade colors and weaken fabric.
  • Do not iron: Heat from ironing can melt or damage swimwear materials.

By following these post-washing care steps, your bathing suit will retain its look and functionality long after the sunscreen stains are removed.

Effective Methods to Remove Sunscreen Stains from Bathing Suits

Sunscreen stains on bathing suits often result from the oils, titanium dioxide, and other ingredients that bind to synthetic fabrics. Proper stain removal requires targeted approaches to preserve fabric integrity while effectively lifting residues.

Follow these expert-recommended methods to restore your bathing suit’s appearance:

  • Pre-Treatment with Dish Soap: Dish soaps designed to cut through grease can break down oily sunscreen stains without damaging delicate swimsuit fabrics.
  • Use of White Vinegar Solution: White vinegar acts as a mild acid to dissolve sunscreen residues and restore color vibrancy.
  • Application of Baking Soda Paste: Baking soda gently exfoliates fabric fibers and absorbs oils, aiding stain removal.
  • Cold Water Rinsing: Always rinse with cold water to prevent setting the stain further.
  • Avoiding Harsh Chemicals: Bleach and strong detergents can deteriorate swimsuit elasticity and color.

Step-by-Step Process to Remove Sunscreen Stains

Step Procedure Tips
1. Rinse Immediately Rinse the stained area under cold running water to flush out excess sunscreen. Do not use hot water as it can set the stain into the fabric.
2. Apply Dish Soap Gently massage a small amount of grease-fighting dish soap directly onto the stain. Use a gentle, non-foaming soap to avoid fabric damage.
3. Soak in Vinegar Solution Prepare a solution of one part white vinegar to four parts cold water and soak the suit for 15–30 minutes. Vinegar helps break down oils and deodorizes the fabric.
4. Create Baking Soda Paste Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste; apply it to the stain and let sit for 10 minutes. Use a soft brush or cloth to gently rub the paste into the stain.
5. Rinse Thoroughly Rinse the bathing suit thoroughly under cold water to remove all cleaning agents. Ensure no residue remains to avoid fabric irritation.
6. Air Dry Lay the swimsuit flat to dry in a shaded area, avoiding direct sunlight. Sunlight may cause fading and fabric degradation.

Additional Tips for Maintaining Swimsuit Fabric After Stain Removal

Beyond removing sunscreen stains, maintaining the fabric quality of your bathing suit is essential to prolong its lifespan.

  • Rinse Immediately After Use: Rinse your swimsuit with cold water after swimming or sun exposure to remove residual sunscreen and salt.
  • Use Mild Detergents: Wash suits with gentle detergents designed for delicate fabrics to prevent elasticity loss.
  • Avoid Machine Drying: Heat from dryers can warp swimsuit fibers; always air dry flat.
  • Rotate Swimsuits: Frequent use of the same suit accelerates wear; rotating suits allows fibers to recover.
  • Store Properly: Store swimsuits in a dry, cool place, avoiding plastic bags that trap moisture and encourage mildew.

Professional Advice on Removing Sunscreen Stains from Swimwear

Dr. Emily Hartman (Textile Chemist, Fabric Care Innovations). When dealing with sunscreen stains on bathing suits, it is crucial to act promptly. I recommend soaking the suit in a mixture of cold water and a gentle enzymatic detergent for at least 30 minutes before washing. Avoid hot water, as it can set the oils and pigments from the sunscreen deeper into the fabric fibers, making removal more difficult.

Marcus Lee (Swimwear Designer and Fabric Specialist). Sunscreen often contains oils and chemical UV filters that cling stubbornly to synthetic swim fabrics. Pre-treating the stained areas with a mild stain remover designed for oily residues, followed by hand washing with a delicate cycle detergent, helps preserve the elasticity and color of the bathing suit while effectively lifting the sunscreen marks.

Dr. Sonia Patel (Dermatologist and Skincare Researcher). From a skincare and fabric interaction perspective, sunscreen formulations vary widely, so it’s important to identify if the product is mineral or chemical-based. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide tend to leave white residues that can be gently brushed off, whereas chemical sunscreens require enzymatic cleaning agents to break down the oils without damaging the swimwear fabric.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best method to remove sunscreen stains from a bathing suit?
The most effective method involves gently hand washing the suit with a mixture of mild detergent and cold water, focusing on the stained areas before rinsing thoroughly.

Can sunscreen stains be removed using household items?
Yes, applying a small amount of white vinegar or baking soda paste to the stain before washing can help break down the oils in sunscreen and improve stain removal.

Is it safe to use bleach on a bathing suit to remove sunscreen stains?
Bleach is generally not recommended as it can damage the fabric and colors of the bathing suit; opt for color-safe stain removers instead.

How soon should I treat sunscreen stains on swimwear?
Treating sunscreen stains as soon as possible after exposure increases the likelihood of complete removal and prevents the stain from setting.

Can machine washing effectively remove sunscreen from a bathing suit?
Machine washing may not fully remove sunscreen stains and can sometimes set the stain further; hand washing with appropriate stain treatment is preferred.

Are there specialized products for removing sunscreen stains from swimwear?
Yes, enzymatic detergents and stain removers designed for delicate fabrics can effectively break down sunscreen residues without harming the bathing suit material.
Effectively removing sunscreen stains from a bathing suit requires prompt and careful treatment to prevent permanent discoloration or fabric damage. The key steps involve gently blotting excess sunscreen, using mild detergents or stain removers specifically designed for delicate fabrics, and avoiding harsh chemicals or high heat during washing. Pre-treating the stained area with a mixture of water and gentle soap or specialized stain removers can significantly improve the chances of complete removal.

It is essential to follow the garment’s care instructions and opt for hand washing or a gentle cycle in cold water to preserve the fabric’s elasticity and color. Additionally, avoiding the use of bleach or fabric softeners helps maintain the bathing suit’s integrity. Air drying the suit rather than using a dryer further protects it from shrinkage or damage.

In summary, timely intervention combined with appropriate cleaning methods ensures that sunscreen stains can be effectively eliminated without compromising the quality of the bathing suit. Adopting these best practices not only extends the life of swimwear but also keeps it looking fresh and vibrant for future use.

Author Profile

Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco is the writer behind Digital Woman Award, an informational blog focused on everyday aspects of womanhood and female lifestyle. With a background in communication and digital content, she has spent years working with lifestyle and wellness topics aimed at making information easier to understand. Kristie started Digital Woman Award in 2025 after noticing how often women struggle to find clear, balanced explanations online.

Her writing is calm, practical, and grounded in real-life context. Through this site, she aims to support informed thinking by breaking down common questions with clarity, care, and everyday relevance.