Rinse swimwear immediately after the beach.

Yes. The best way to remove saltwater stains is to rinse the suit in cold water as soon as you’re done swimming. Salt crystals left to dry in the fabric will weaken the fibers and leave white, crusty stains. A quick rinse before you even leave the sand prevents most of the damage.

If the suit has already dried with salt stains, soak it in cool water with a splash of white vinegar (about a tablespoon per quart) for 15–20 minutes. That helps dissolve the salt crystals without damaging the elastane or spandex. Rinse again with plain water after the soak. Don’t use hot water — that will set any stains and ruin the elastic.

No special detergent needed. Just water and maybe a little vinegar if you’re dealing with set-in stains. Machine wash is fine if you use a gentle cycle and a mesh bag, but hand rinse is safer long-term.

Your swimsuit will thank you by lasting more than one season.