7 Tips to Make Your Rash Guard Last Longer During Summer Fun
As summer approaches, more and more people are gearing up to hit the beach for some fun in the sun. However, before you dive into the waves, it’s important to make sure that you have all of the necessary gear for a comfortable and safe day at the beach. One key piece of beachwear that often gets overlooked is the rash guard. Not only do they protect against harmful UV rays but also from rashes caused by salt water and sand irritation.
Rash guards are a type of swimwear designed to protect your skin from abrasions, cuts, and rashes that can occur while swimming or participating in other water activities like surfing or paddleboarding. They’re made out of stretchy material with flatlock seams designed to reduce irritation on your skin.
While most rash guards are durable enough to withstand exposure to sunlight, saltwater, chlorine, and sand over time they can start showing signs of wear and tear if not taken care properly. In this post, we’ll be sharing some tips on how you can take care of your rash guard so that it lasts longer.
1) Rinse Your Rash Guard After Every Use
The first step in taking care of your rash guard is giving it a good rinse after every use. This will help get rid of any salt or chlorine residue left on it which could cause discoloration over time if left uncleaned.
To rinse off your rash guard thoroughly:
– Fill a basin with lukewarm water.
– Add a small amount (about one tablespoon) of mild detergent
– Swish the mixture around gently.
– Place your rash guard inside and let it soak for about 15 minutes.
– Gently squeeze out excess water (Do not wring)
– Rinse thoroughly with cool clean water
– Hang dry immediately away from direct sunlight
2) Avoid Machine Washing Your Rash Guard
It might be tempting just to throw your rash guard into the washing machine with the rest of your laundry but you should avoid it at all costs. This is because rash guards are made from delicate material that can get damaged easily by machine washing.
The best way to wash a rash guard is by hand using mild detergent and lukewarm water. Make sure to rinse it thoroughly afterward before hanging it up to dry.
3) Don’t Use Fabric Softener
While fabric softeners may seem like they would make your rash guard softer, they can actually harm the fabric over time. This is because most fabric softeners contain chemicals that can damage the synthetic fibers in your rash guard and cause discoloration or weakening of the material.
Instead, opt for a gentle soap or mild detergent when washing your rash guard. Your skin will thank you for avoiding any harsh chemicals!
4) Avoid Exposure To Direct Sunlight
Rash guards are designed to protect against UV rays, but prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can still cause them to fade over time. To keep your rash guard looking vibrant and new for as long as possible, avoid leaving it out in direct sunlight when not being worn.
5) Store Rash Guards Properly
When storing your rash guard, make sure that it’s completely dry before folding or hanging it up in a closet or drawer. You should also avoid storing them in plastic bags since this could trap moisture inside and lead to mold growth on the garment.
6) Invest In Multiple Rash Guards For Regular Swimmers
If you’re someone who regularly spends time in the water while wearing a rashguard (such as surfers), consider investing in multiple ones so that you don’t have to wear one too often which may reduce their lifespan faster due to constant exposure of saltwater & sun rays.
7) Check The Care Label Before Washing
Finally, always check the care label on your individual rash guard before washing or drying it. Different materials may require different cleaning methods so following these instructions will help you avoid damaging your rash guard.
In conclusion, taking care of your rash guard isn’t difficult and requires only a little bit of effort on your part. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your rash guard lasts for many summers to come. Enjoy the sun and have fun in the water!