Yes, you absolutely can swim in polyester. In fact, polyester is an excellent and widely utilized material for swimwear, often considered one of the top choices due to its robust properties.
Among the various fabrics used for creating swimwear, including common blends with elastane (spandex) and nylon, polyester tops the choice of suitable swimsuit materials. This makes it a preferred fabric for everything from competitive swimsuits to recreational beachwear.
Why Polyester Excels as a Swimwear Fabric
Polyester's popularity in swimwear stems from its unique characteristics that make it ideal for aquatic environments. While fabrics like elastane and nylon are also commonly blended into swimwear for various benefits, polyester's inherent qualities give it an edge.
Key Benefits of Polyester Swimwear
- Exceptional Durability: Polyester fibers are very strong and resistant to stretching, shrinking, and abrasion, ensuring a long lifespan for your swimsuit even with frequent use.
- High Chlorine Resistance: Unlike some other fabrics that can degrade and lose elasticity when exposed to chlorine, polyester maintains its integrity, making it perfect for chlorinated pools.
- Superior UV Resistance: Polyester holds up well against the damaging effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, helping to prevent fading and material breakdown during outdoor swimming.
- Quick-Drying Properties: As a synthetic fiber, polyester is inherently hydrophobic, meaning it repels water. This allows polyester swimsuits to dry much faster than those made from natural fibers, enhancing comfort and preventing mildew.
- Excellent Color Retention: The fibers of polyester hold dye exceptionally well, meaning your swimsuit's vibrant colors will resist fading from sun exposure, chlorine, and repeated washing.
- Comfort and Fit: While polyester itself doesn't offer much stretch, it is typically blended with elastane (spandex or Lycra) to provide the necessary flexibility, comfort, and form-fitting shape required for active swimming.
Polyester Blends in Swimwear
As the reference highlights, polyester, along with elastane and nylon, is commonly blended with other materials when used for clothing, including swimwear. For example, a common swimwear composition might be 80% polyester and 20% elastane. This blend combines polyester's durability, chlorine resistance, and quick-drying properties with elastane's stretch and recovery, resulting in a swimsuit that is both long-lasting and comfortable.
Choosing and Caring for Polyester Swimwear
When selecting swimwear, look for options where polyester is a primary component, often blended with elastane for optimal performance.
Here's a quick overview of polyester swimwear features:
| Feature | Polyester Swimwear |
|---|---|
| Chlorine Resist. | High |
| UV Resistance | High |
| Drying Speed | Fast |
| Durability | Excellent |
| Color Retention | Superior |
| Stretch | Excellent (when blended with elastane) |
To maximize the lifespan of your polyester swimsuit:
- Rinse Immediately: After each swim, rinse your swimsuit thoroughly with cool, clean water to remove chlorine, saltwater, and sunscreen residues.
- Hand Wash Recommended: For best results, hand wash with a mild detergent. If using a machine, opt for a delicate cycle with cold water and place the suit in a mesh laundry bag.
- Avoid Hot Water: Hot water can degrade the fabric and elastic over time.
- Air Dry: Lay the swimsuit flat or hang it in the shade to air dry. Avoid direct sunlight and never put it in a dryer, as high heat can damage the fibers and elasticity.
- No Bleach or Harsh Chemicals: These can weaken the fabric and cause color fading.
By choosing polyester swimwear and caring for it properly, you can enjoy its many benefits for countless swims.
