How to Steer Clear of Bikini Mishaps

Nobody likes a wardrobe malfunction. And unfortunately, swimwear is ripe with possibilities for them. Bikini bottoms ride up, boobs pop out, straps dig into our shoulders, strings come untied, wet swimwear comes off while swimming...the list goes on.

And it's not just wardrobe malfunctions: swimsuit care mistakes can lead to stretching, sagging, and even the risk of infection or bacterial issues if swimsuits are not properly rinsed of harmful bacteria. Finally, the fabric of your swimsuit matters, as does the cut, especially when it comes to your comfort when doing things like running, jumping, swimming, or surfing.

So, let's take a look at the five top swimwear mistakes and how you can avoid making them this summer.

# 1: Buying the wrong size suit

This is the most common mistake people make with their bathing suits. An improperly sized suit is the primary cause of wardrobe malfunctions and discomfort. Our size chart can help you figure out how to buy the right size swimsuit if you know your body measurements, but in general, here are a few tips to help you next time you're trying on a new suit:

Size Down

When dry, the suit should be very snug. A wet swimsuit stretches because water makes the fabric heavier, so you should always ensure the suit is tight before getting it wet. If there is any sagging while the suit is dry, it will be amplified when the fabric is wet.

A good rule of thumb is that the suit should be tight enough to provide light compression while dry.

Lift Your Arms

If you can't lift your arms over your head in the dressing room without the suit riding up or your boob popping out, the suit is too small. Likewise, if a thong bikini is, um, disappearing when you move around, it's probably too small. If you can't slide a finger under the straps, the top is probably too small and the straps might rub or be uncomfortable. And if the strings on your string bikini are tied so tight it's bunching, the suit is probably too big.

# 2: Not taking care of your suit

Improper swimsuit care can shorten the life of your suit and make your swimsuit a hotbed for bacteria. Chlorine, other harsh chemicals, and salt, sand, and sun exposure all damage your swimsuit. Taking care of it is important if you want it to last more than one season.

Here are some tips on how to do that:

Rinse With Fresh Water

At the very least, rinse your suit with fresh water after every use to remove all the chlorine, salt, sunscreen, etc. This alone will extend the life of the suit.

Wash With Gentle Detergent

Don't use anything too harsh on your suit. Mild laundry detergent and cool water are enough. Washing by hand in a sink is preferable to using a machine.

Don't Wring Out!

Wringing out the excess water stretches the fabric and can damage it, leading to sagging. Simply squeeze the suit gently a few times.

Line Dry

Don't put your suit in the dryer. Even dryer-safe suits can be damaged by the heat of a drier, which causes the fabric to lose its elasticity. Never dry your suit in the sun: UV rays damage the fibers and cause the suit to break down faster.

Store Properly

Don't leave your suit in a damp environment unless you're excited about bacterial infections and mold. Ensure the suit is completely dry before you put it away, and always store it in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place.

# 3: Buying the wrong style suit

Certain types of swimwear work better for certain activities. Thong bikinis are great for tanning your buns but not so great for cliff-diving. If you're an active gal, you may want to opt for a sportier, more supportive type of top and bottom that will keep everything in place while you're running, jumping, etc.

While we want to clarify that there is no right type of swimsuit for any particular body type, some women feel more comfortable in certain swimsuit cuts. High-cut bikini bottoms and modest high-waisted bottoms accentuate your natural curves and look flattering on almost anyone. Low-rise bottoms? Not so much, according to many women.

# 4: Wearing the wrong swimsuit fabric

There is no "best" type of swimsuit material, but some fabrics work better than others. Unless you are allergic to synthetic fibers, we used to recommend sticking with one of the three tried-and-true swimsuit fabrics: polyester, nylon, and lycra. They give you the best bang for your buck in terms of comfort, durability, and cost.

However, sustainable swimwear companies have recently been changing the landscape of swimwear, and now, there are many eco-friendly options made from recycled materials, plastic-free materials, and more. We highly recommend checking out these companies if your wallet will allow (they do tend to be pricier than standard swimsuits.)

# 5: Falling victim to swimsuit trends

Just because something is trending, doesn't mean it's right for you. Trends are like rhinos: fun to observe from afar but not always great when you get up close. Sure, you can take note of what styles are "in" this season and make decisions about your wardrobe accordingly, but at the end of the day, the best swimsuit is the one that feels best on your body, not the one that adheres to the latest fashion.

Steer Clear of Major Bikini Mistakes This Summer!

Make your summer wardrobe malfunction-free by following the tips outlined in this article. Make sure your suit fits, make sure you're taking care of it, make sure it's right for the type of occasion, and don't fall victim to fads, and you'll be bikini-mistake-free this year!