how to get sand out of swimsuit

3 min read 07-02-2025

Meta Description: Frustrated with sand clinging to your swimsuit? This comprehensive guide reveals effective methods to remove sand from all types of swimsuits, leaving them clean and ready for your next beach trip. Learn the best techniques, from simple shaking to using specialized tools, and keep your swimwear sand-free!

The Beach Day Dilemma: Sand in Your Swimsuit

We've all been there. A perfect beach day, sun-kissed skin, and then… the dreaded sand clinging stubbornly to your swimsuit. Getting sand out of a swimsuit can feel like an impossible task. But fear not! This guide offers practical solutions to rid your swimwear of those pesky grains, no matter the fabric.

Quick Methods for Removing Sand from Swimsuits

Before resorting to more intensive methods, try these quick fixes:

1. The Shake-Out: The most straightforward approach! Give your wet swimsuit a vigorous shake outside, allowing the sand to fall away. This works best immediately after leaving the beach.

2. The Towel Trick: Lay your damp swimsuit on a towel. Roll the towel tightly, trapping the swimsuit inside. Then, gently roll the towel back and forth, using the friction to dislodge sand.

3. The Brush-Off: Use a soft-bristled brush (an old clothes brush works well) to gently brush away sand from the fabric's surface. Avoid harsh scrubbing, as this could damage delicate materials.

4. The Rinse: A quick rinse with fresh water can help loosen clinging sand. Don't wring out your suit too tightly, as this can trap sand. Instead, gently squeeze excess water out.

Deeper Cleaning for Stubborn Sand

If the quick methods fail, you might need to employ a more thorough approach:

How to Get Sand Out of Different Swimsuit Fabrics:

1. Nylon/Polyester Swimsuits: These are generally durable. You can often machine wash them in a mesh laundry bag on a gentle cycle with cold water. Add a small amount of mild detergent. Air dry completely to prevent shrinking or damage.

2. Lycra/Spandex Swimsuits: These fabrics are more delicate. Hand washing with cold water and mild detergent is recommended. Again, avoid harsh scrubbing. Gently squeeze out excess water and lay flat to dry.

3. Cotton Swimsuits: While less common for swimwear, cotton suits can be machine washed in cold water with mild detergent. Air drying is essential.

4. Ruffle Swimsuits: The ruffles can trap sand easily. Use your fingers or a small, soft brush to carefully work the sand out from within the ruffles before washing or rinsing.

5. Embellished Swimsuits: Swimsuits with beads, sequins, or other embellishments require extra care. Hand washing is best to avoid damaging the decorations. Gently rinse and air dry.

Addressing Specific Sand Problems:

How to Get Sand Out of Swimsuit Bottoms: The inner lining of swimsuit bottoms can be a sand trap! Turn them inside out and shake vigorously. Use a small brush or your fingers to loosen sand in hard-to-reach areas. Then, rinse and wash as instructed.

How to Get Sand Out of Swimsuit Linings: Many swimsuits have inner linings. These can trap sand especially well. Try using a small brush or your fingers to remove sand. If necessary, gently rinse the lining separately.

Preventing Sand From Getting into Your Swimsuit in the First Place:

Use a beach towel or sarong: Cover your swimsuit while not in the water.
Shower before changing: Rinse off excess sand before removing your swimsuit.
Shake out your swimsuit before packing: Remove loose sand before putting your wet swimsuit in your bag.

Tools to Help Remove Sand from Your Swimsuit

Several tools can aid in sand removal:

Soft-bristled brush: Ideal for delicate fabrics and hard-to-reach areas.
Mesh laundry bag: Protects your swimsuit during machine washing.
Vacuum cleaner (with a soft brush attachment): For stubborn sand embedded in fabrics (use cautiously).

Conclusion

Getting sand out of a swimsuit doesn't have to be a battle. By following these tips and choosing the appropriate method for your swimsuit's fabric, you can keep your swimwear clean and ready for your next beach adventure. Remember, prevention is key! Taking a few simple precautions at the beach can significantly reduce the amount of sand you have to deal with later. Now go enjoy that beautiful ocean!