How to Wash and Care for Your Kids' Rash Guards to Extend Their Life

Rash guards are a staple for active kids who love the water. Whether they're surfing, swimming, or just playing at the beach, a good rash guard provides sun protection and comfort. But to keep that protection and fit, proper care is essential. Harsh detergents, chlorine, and saltwater can break down the fabric and elastic over time, leading to fading, stretching, and reduced UPF.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the best ways to wash and care for your kids' rash guards, including tips for dealing with chlorine and saltwater, how to remove stains, and proper drying techniques. With a little attention, you can extend the life of your rash guards and save money on replacements.

Why Proper Care Matters for Rash Guards

Rash guards are made from performance fabrics like nylon and spandex, which are designed to stretch and wick moisture. However, these materials are sensitive to chlorine, salt, heat, and harsh chemicals. Without proper care, the elastic fibers can degrade, causing the rash guard to lose its shape and fit. The fabric may also pill or fade, and the UPF rating can decrease over time.

For kids who spend hours in the pool or ocean, a well-maintained rash guard can last through multiple seasons. Simple habits like rinsing after each use and washing with gentle detergents make a big difference. The BinkyBro brooks-one-piece-131290">Brooks One-Piece and other swimwear items are built to last, but they still need your help to stay in top condition.

• Rinse rash guards in cool, fresh water immediately after use to remove chlorine, salt, and sand.
• Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric, as this can damage the elastic fibers.

Step-by-Step Washing Instructions

Start by turning the rash guard inside out. This protects the outer fabric and any prints from friction. Use a gentle, liquid detergent that is free of bleach, fabric softeners, and optical brighteners. These chemicals can break down spandex and fade colors. Hand washing is gentlest, but you can use a washing machine on a delicate cycle with cold water.

If your child's rash guard has stains from sunscreen or dirt, pre-treat the area with a small amount of detergent and gently rub. For tough stains like grass or mud, soak the rash guard in cold water for 15-30 minutes before washing. Avoid hot water, which can set stains and damage the elastic. After washing, rinse thoroughly to remove all detergent residue.

• Use a mesh laundry bag when machine washing to reduce snagging and stretching.
• Never use bleach or fabric softener; they degrade the fabric and reduce UPF protection.

Drying: The Most Important Step

Heat is the enemy of elastic fibers. Never put a rash guard in the dryer, even on low heat. The high temperature can cause the fabric to shrink, lose elasticity, and become stiff. Instead, lay the rash guard flat on a clean towel or hang it in the shade to air dry. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colors and weaken the fabric over time.

If you're in a hurry, you can use a fan to speed up drying. Gently squeeze out excess water (don't wring) and roll the rash guard in a towel to absorb moisture before laying it flat. For kids who wear rash guards daily, having two or three in rotation can help each one last longer. The BinkyBro rash guard models like the 99-90 Roxy Purple are designed for durability, but they still need gentle drying.

• Never iron a rash guard; the heat will melt the synthetic fibers.
• Store rash guards folded or hung in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

How to Handle Chlorine and Saltwater Exposure

Chlorine and saltwater are harsh on swimwear. After every swim, rinse the rash guard in cool, fresh water as soon as possible. If you can't wash it right away, at least soak it in water for a few minutes. For heavy chlorine exposure (like in a pool), you can occasionally use a special swimwear wash that neutralizes chlorine. These products are gentle and help maintain the fabric's integrity.

For saltwater, a simple fresh water rinse is usually enough. If the rash guard feels stiff after drying, it may have salt residue. Soak it in cold water with a small amount of mild detergent, then rinse and dry as usual. Avoid using vinegar or baking soda, as they can alter the pH and damage the fabric. With proper care, your child's rash guard will stay soft and stretchy all summer.

• Rinse immediately after swimming—don't let chlorine or salt dry into the fabric.
• Wash with a swimwear-specific detergent once a week if used in chlorinated pools.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the biggest mistakes is leaving a wet rash guard in a bag or locker. Moisture promotes mildew and bacteria growth, leading to odors and fabric damage. Always hang or lay flat to dry as soon as possible. Another common error is using too much detergent, which can leave residue that attracts dirt and reduces breathability.

Also, avoid using hot water for washing or soaking, as it can set stains and damage elastic. Don't scrub stains aggressively—gentle rubbing is enough. Finally, never use a dryer, even on low heat. The heat breaks down the spandex fibers, causing the rash guard to lose its shape. Follow these simple rules, and your kids' rash guards will stay vibrant and functional for many swims.

• Don't leave wet rash guards in a pile; dry them immediately to prevent mildew.
• Avoid hanging rash guards by the straps or hem, as the weight can stretch them out.

Caring for your kids' rash guards doesn't have to be complicated. By rinsing after every use, washing gently with mild detergent, and air drying away from heat, you can significantly extend the life of the garment. These small habits keep the fabric soft, the colors bright, and the UPF protection effective. Whether your child wears a BinkyBro rash guard like the Stamped Blue Crush or a classic style, proper maintenance ensures they get the most out of their swimwear. Happy swimming!