Chlorine resistant swimwear: why it's worth the investment
Swimwear collections are often seasonal and exclusive, so when you come across that swimsuit with the perfect fit & stunning print, keeping it for years to come, comes down to knowing your swimwear fabrics and the difference between regular and chlorine resistant swimwear.
So what's the difference? Regular swimwear is typically made with stretchy Lycra, which, while comfortable, breaks down easily in commercial pools. We’ve seen the effects firsthand, it really doesn’t take much for a regular swimsuit to succumb to the damaging effects of chlorine! Chlorine resistant swimwear on the other hand is crafted from durable fabrics like polyester that can withstand the harsh effects of chlorine. And so, if you're a regular swimmer, whether you train regularly or love spending time in the pool over summer, investing in chlorine resistant swimwear is a must. Ensuring your swimwear keeps its vibrant and secure, sculpted fit, keeping your favourite swimsuit looking fresh and new wear after wear - saving you both time and money with fewer replacements needed.
Chlorine-resistant styles aren’t just practical: they come in a wide range of options to suit every occasion. From suits for fitness and lap swimming to fashionable designs for your next holiday, chlorine-resistant swimsuits are a smart investment that outlasts your average swimsuit.
What is Chlorine Resistant Swimwear?
Chlorine-resistant swimwear is swimwear that is designed to be worn in commercial pools. These swimsuits are crafted with durable fabrics, specifically 100% Polyester or Polyester PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate) blends, which are resistant to the damage caused by heat and chlorine. Most swimsuits on the market are made using a combination of different blends from elastane & nylon to spandex & lycra, all of which easily break down in chlorinated pools.
Why does regular swimwear breakdown in chlorine?
The fibres in elastane and nylon blends - the most common fabrics used in swimwear - aren’t strong enough to withstand the damaging effects of chlorine. When exposed to chlorine, the chemical structure of these fabrics begins to break down. This breakdown of fibres leads to loss of colour vibrancy, fading prints, reduced elasticity, sagging, thinning fabric, and eventually a loss of shape over time, making the swimsuit unwearable.
What fabrics make the best chlorine resistant swimwear?
100% polyester and PBT blends offer high durability. Polyester’s strong chemical stability makes it less reactive to chlorine, and because polyester is a hydrophobic material and doesn’t absorb water, chlorine damage is further minimized.
Why is chlorine resistant swimwear worth the investment?
If you’re a regular swimmer or spend a lot of time in chlorinated pools, you’ll want a swimsuit that maintains its quality use after use. Investing in chlorine-resistant swimwear is not only saving you dollars per wear & frequent swimsuit replacements, but also reduces waste and environmental impact. On average, chlorine-resistant swimsuits last 5–10 times longer than standard swimsuits when used in chlorinated pools.
How to choose the best Chlorine Resistant Swimwear
When choosing the best chlorine resistant swimwear, always check the swimsuit’s composition - usually found on the tag sewn into the side seam. Swimwear made from 100% polyester or a polyester-PBT blend is generally reliable for regular use in pools.
Our range of chlorine resistant swimwear is perfect for lap swimming, water aerobics, and casual pool use. From tankinis and one-pieces to coordinated sets, we have options to suit every style and need.
We recommend selecting swimsuits from reputable brands known for performance and training in commercial pools, such as Speedo, Zoggs, Funkita, and Funky Trunks. While these brands are designed for pool use, not every swimsuit they offer is equally chlorine resistant - so it’s always worth double-checking the make.
How to care for chlorine resistant swimwear to extend its life
Looking after your chlorine resistant swimsuit doesn’t stop at the pool! Proper aftercare is just as important for maintaining its quality and longevity.
After every swim, rinse your suit quickly under cold water - the less time chlorine sits in the fabric, the better. Hand wash with a gentle detergent and lay flat to dry. Avoid wringing out your swimsuit or placing it in direct sunlight, as this can damage the fibres.
Machine washing should also be avoided, as the tumbling motion can cause snags, tears, and long-term damage. If you swim frequently, we recommend rotating between two swimsuits to help extend their lifespan.
Common myths about chlorine resistant bathing suits
Myth 1: chlorine-resistant = indestructible
While chlorine-resistant swimwear is designed to withstand the effects of chlorine, they do not last forever - like anything, regular use and wear and tear over time will lead to discoloration and elasticity loss. Chlorine-resistant swimwear however, is designed to withstand chlorine far better than standard suits. While they don’t last forever, they do last five to ten times longer than the average swimsuit. This is of course, dependent on usage and proper care.
Myth 2: They feel stiff and less stretchy
While your swimsuit may feel a little snug initially - just like breaking in a new pair of shoes, chlorine-resistant swimwear is designed to feel just as comfortable as non-chlorine-resistant suits. PBT blends offer great stretch and shape retention. For training and performance, a closer fit is recommended, but your suit should never feel restrictive or uncomfortable (if it does, it’s likely a sizing issue). Although chlorine-resistant swimwear doesn’t contain elastane, it doesn’t mean it’s stiff - they are made to move with you in the water.
Myth 3: They’re only for professional swimmers
Chlorine-resistant styles are for everybody - pro swimmer or not! While elite swimmers train & compete in high-performance suits like the Speedo Fastkin - designed for speed and performance with compression features for streamlined shaping, it doesn’t mean that every chlorine-resistant suit is for professionals. Everybody who spends time swimming in pools can benefit from the same durability. We stock a huge variety of chlorine-resistant swimwear for serious swimmers to the everyday person looking for a chlorine-resistant swimsuit for a leisurely swim, your fitness routine or your holiday. There is no reason why you shouldn’t invest in one - if anything, you’re doing yourself a favour!
FAQ
How long does chlorine resistant swimwear last?
Chlorine resistant swimwear can last, on average, six times longer than a regular swimsuit in chlorinated pools.
Is it worth the extra cost compared to regular swimsuits?
Most chlorine-resistant swimsuits aren’t much more expensive than your regular nylon/elastane swimsuits. There are a range of brands offering chlorine-resistant swimsuits at price points from $59.99 - $179. When you compare replacement costs over time with the price of a chlorine-resistant swimsuit, it’s definitely a worthwhile investment.
Can chlorine-resistant fabric stretch like Lycra?
Chlorine-resistant swim fabrics do stretch, but not as much as lycra. Polyester/PBT blend swimsuits stretch well, but in a more controlled, durable way.
Is chlorine resistant swimwear also UV resistant?
Yes! The polyester in chlorine resistant swimwear is naturally resistant to UV rays, helping the swimsuit’s colours stay vibrant even after sun exposure.
