A baggy, stretched-out swimsuit can ruin your summer look, but don't throw it out just yet – our expert tips and tricks on how to shrink a swimsuit will have it fitting like new it no time.
Once you've shopped from the best swimsuit brands and found the perfect piece, you should hang on to it. However, swimwear can easily lose its shape through sun exposure, chlorine or simply because you've enjoyed wearing it all season long.
After trying on a well-loved tankini I wore last all summer, I quickly realised the piece felt baggy and had lost its original 'tummy control' power, leaving me disheartened. However, after consulting with an expert on how to shrink a swimsuit, I've found some brilliant solutions that have helped my suit bounce back. Also, if you're wondering how often you should wash your swimwear, we've got advice on this, too.
Hyacinth Tucker, the Laundry Lady and CEO of The Laundry Basket, has offered her expert tips to help you tackle those loose swimsuits, letting us know that with the right techniques, you can bring your swimwear back to a flattering and figure-hugging fit.
How to shrink a swimsuit: The boiling method
She suggests that one of the best ways to shrink your swimsuit is the boiling water method: "Fill a pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil," Hyacinth advises, then "carefully place your swimsuit into the boiling water and let it simmer for about 10 minutes." Here, I made sure to use tongs to keep a safe distance when lowering my suit in. Make sure you always use tongs to remove the swimsuit from the pot to avoid any injuries, too (you might want to wear a pair of oven gloves, and stand back to avoid hot water drips). This process helped to tighten the fabric, reducing its size.
Once removed, rinse it off under cold water immediately to stop the shrinking process. This method is ideal for swimsuits made from natural fibres or blends that can handle the heat. However, be mindful of the specific material of your suit, as some fabrics don't respond well to high temperatures. My two-piece handled the heat well, and was made from an elastane blend, making it once again, one of the best tummy control swimsuits.
How to shrink a swimsuit: before & after
Once I had completed the boiling method, I noticed a significant change in the fit and handle of my two-piece. The material had bounced back to almost the original feel. My swimsuit has hidden tummy support that I had felt had worn off from overwear, which was my main concern, however, I have noticed that the fit after following these steps was much improved and helped to sculpt my silhouette.
How to shrink a swimsuit: A gentler approach
If you’re hesitant about boiling your swimsuit, Hyacinth suggests a more gentle approach. "Wash the suit in cool water with mild detergent first," she recommends. "Then submerge it in boiling water for fifteen minutes." This method starts with a gentle cleanse to ensure your swimsuit is free from any oils or chlorine, which could impact the shrinking process.
After soaking in boiling water, rinse the suit with cold water; this step helps to set the new size. Gently squeeze out the excess water, but avoid wringing it out, as this can distort the fabric. Place the swimsuit in a dryer on a low setting, and keep an eye on it. "Check on the suit often to avoid over-shrinking," Hyacinth says. This careful monitoring will help you achieve the desired fit without making it too tight.
How to shrink a swimsuit: Specific problem areas
Sometimes, it's not the entire swimsuit that needs shrinking, but specific problem areas, like the bottom of your swimsuit, for instance. In this scenario, Hyacinth offers a solution that includes soaking those specific areas in hot water. "Shot water helps relax the fibres, allowing for shrinkage," she explains. Meaning that you can target saggy spots by dipping only those parts into the hot water to create your desired effect.
For saggy bikini bottoms, Hyacinth offers a DIY fix, which includes adding your own straps to regular bikini bottom styles to make them into a tie-up style. She suggests, "Try attaching matching straps to the sides of the bottoms with a needle and thread." By doing a simple alteration like this, you can tighten and adjust the fit to suit your needs. Or create knots in the straps for another quick and easy way to reclaim the tightness without going through the whole shrinking process.
And if you are wondering how to (or how often to) wash your swimsuit once you've shrunk it, she suggests washing your suit with water after each use to remove chlorine, salt, and oils (such as suncream) that can weaken the fibres. Make sure you hand wash with a mild detergent and avoid using harsh chemicals, which can damage the piece. Allow it to air dry away from direct sunlight to ensure it keeps its elasticity, or put it in the dryer on a low tumble.
This plant-based liquid detergent is delicate and is ideal for hand washing or shrinking your swimwear. Or use day-to-day in your washing machine.
This brand is renowned for its excellent clothing care products, including this gentle detergent, which is scented with bergamot and sandalwood.
If you want a quick fix for tighten your bikini bottoms, then sew on some straps which will allow you to adjust the fit. Try this method with this fabulous sewing kit.
How tight should a swimsuit be?
Your swimsuit should be closely fitted against your skin, and any bunching or excess material usually indicates that it may be too big. Of course, you should be able to move freely in your swimming costume, and you should never feel uncomfortable. However, there should be a slight feeling of compression, and often swimsuits that have a ‘’held in feeling’’ are some of the best swimsuits for women over 50, offering support that flatters your silhouette.
Should you size up in swimwear?
Ideally, you should choose your exact size, however, if you have a larger bust or longer torso, you should consider sizing up. It is always essential to choose based on comfort and feel, so if you are unsure, order multiple sizes to try on or head to the store to compare. Think about which area of your body needs the most support. You may want to look for one of the best swimsuits for large busts, or specifically opt for tummy control swimwear.
Can you shrink a swimsuit in the washing machine?
If you are wondering how to shrink a swimsuit, the washing machine is not the answer. It is not recommended to shrink or even wash your swimsuits in the washing machine, as the impact of it can cause the piece to stretch out, and this may loosen the fibres. Follow the steps above instead of opting for the machine, and this should help tighten your swimwear.
