how to clean a white bathing suit that turns yellow

Daniel Parker

3 min read

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12-01-2025

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White bathing suits are stylish and summery, but they're notorious for yellowing. Sun, chlorine, sweat, and even sunscreen can all contribute to that unsightly discoloration. Luckily, with the right techniques, you can restore your favorite white swimsuit to its former glory. This guide will walk you through effective cleaning methods to tackle yellow stains and keep your white swimwear bright.

Understanding Why White Bathing Suits Turn Yellow

Before we dive into cleaning, let's understand why your white bathing suit turns yellow. Several culprits are at play:

• Chlorine: Chlorine in swimming pools reacts with the fabric, leading to yellowing. This is especially true for synthetic fabrics like nylon and spandex.
• Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the fabric to oxidize and break down, resulting in yellow discoloration.
• Body Oils and Sweat: Your natural body oils and sweat can combine with chlorine and other elements to stain your suit.
• Sunscreen: Certain sunscreen chemicals can also react with the fabric, contributing to yellow stains.

How to Clean a Yellowed White Bathing Suit: A Step-by-Step Guide

There are several ways to tackle yellow stains on your white bathing suit, depending on the severity of the discoloration. Here's a breakdown of methods, starting with the gentlest:

Method 1: Hand Washing with Laundry Detergent

This method is best for lightly yellowed suits.

1. Pre-treat: Before washing, gently rub a small amount of laundry detergent directly onto the yellowed areas. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes.
2. Soak: Fill a basin with cool water and add a small amount of laundry detergent. Submerge your swimsuit and soak for 30 minutes to an hour.
3. Rinse: Rinse thoroughly with cool water until all the detergent is removed.
4. Air Dry: Lay the swimsuit flat on a clean towel to air dry. Avoid direct sunlight.

Method 2: Soaking with Baking Soda and White Vinegar

This is a more powerful approach for moderate yellowing.

1. Combine: In a basin, mix equal parts baking soda and white vinegar. The mixture will fizz.
2. Soak: Submerge your swimsuit and let it soak for 1-2 hours. Monitor and add more water if needed.
3. Rinse & Dry: Rinse thoroughly with cool water and air dry.

Method 3: Using a Bleach Alternative

For stubborn yellow stains, consider using a bleach alternative like OxiClean or a similar product. Always follow the product instructions carefully.

1. Prepare Solution: Mix the bleach alternative with cool water according to package directions.
2. Soak: Submerge your swimsuit and soak for the recommended time (usually several hours or overnight).
3. Rinse & Dry: Rinse thoroughly and air dry.

Method 4: Professional Cleaning

If the yellowing is severe or you're hesitant to try other methods, consider taking your swimsuit to a professional dry cleaner. They have specialized cleaning agents that may be more effective.

Preventing Yellowing in Your White Bathing Suit

Prevention is key! Here are some tips to keep your white bathing suit bright:

• Rinse Immediately: After every swim, rinse your swimsuit thoroughly with cool, clean water to remove chlorine, salt, and sunscreen.
• Hand Wash Regularly: Hand wash your swimsuit after each use, following the instructions above.
• Air Dry in Shade: Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause yellowing.
• Don't Overuse Sunscreen: Use a minimal amount of sunscreen, avoiding direct application to the swimsuit fabric.
• Use Swimsuit-Specific Detergent: Consider using a detergent designed for delicate fabrics and swimwear.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I put my white bathing suit in the washing machine?

A: It's generally best to avoid the washing machine, especially for delicate fabrics. The agitation can damage the fabric. Hand washing is gentler.

Q: Can I use bleach on my white bathing suit?

A: While bleach can remove stains, it can also damage the fabric and weaken the elasticity over time. It's better to try gentler methods first. If you do use bleach, use a diluted solution and test it on a hidden area first.

Q: My white bathing suit still has some yellowing after trying these methods. What should I do?

A: If the yellowing persists, consider taking your swimsuit to a professional dry cleaner. They may have access to specialized cleaning agents that can help. It's also possible the damage is permanent.

By following these tips and cleaning methods, you can keep your white bathing suits looking bright and white for longer. Remember that prevention is key, and with a little care, your swimwear will remain a summer staple.