Polyester swimsuits are your best bet for chlorine.

Get a polyester suit. Nylon and spandex blends break down fast in chlorinated pools—they stretch out, fade, and get that ugly pilling. Polyester holds up way better.

Most high-end competitive suits (Speedo, TYR, Arena) are moving to polyester or poly blends for a reason. They last months longer in regular pool use. Look for “100% polyester” or “PBT” (a type of polyester) in the tag. You’ll pay a little more upfront, but it’s worth it.

Rinse your suit in cold water after swimming, and never wring it out. That helps too. But the fabric choice matters way more than your laundry habits.

Don’t buy a cute suit made of cheap nylon for lap swimming. It’ll look sad in three weeks.