To effectively remove chlorine from a bathing suit, wash it on the delicate cycle in cold water with a non-toxic detergent and a few teaspoons of sodium ascorbate. Then, hang it to dry.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Steps to Remove Chlorine from Your Swimsuit:
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Rinse Immediately After Swimming: The simplest and most effective step is to rinse your bathing suit with cool, clean water immediately after swimming. This washes away the majority of the chlorine before it can bind to the fabric.
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Machine Washing (Delicate Cycle Recommended):
- Place the swimsuit in a washing machine.
- Use cold water and a gentle, non-toxic detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach, as these can damage the fabric.
- Sodium Ascorbate: Add a few teaspoons of sodium ascorbate to the wash. Sodium ascorbate is a form of vitamin C that neutralizes chlorine.
- Select the delicate cycle.
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Hand Washing (Alternative Method):
- Fill a sink or basin with cold water.
- Add a small amount of gentle, non-toxic detergent.
- Add a few teaspoons of sodium ascorbate.
- Submerge the swimsuit and gently agitate it for a few minutes.
- Let it soak for about 30 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with cold water until all soap and sodium ascorbate are removed.
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Drying:
- Never put your swimsuit in the dryer. The high heat can damage the elastic fibers and cause it to lose its shape and elasticity.
- Instead, gently squeeze out excess water (avoid wringing) and hang it to dry in a shaded area. Direct sunlight can fade the colors. Laying it flat on a clean towel is also a good option.
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Check for Chlorine Odor: After drying, smell the bathing suit. If you still detect a chlorine odor, repeat the washing process.
Why This Works:
Chlorine is a harsh chemical that can break down the fibers in your bathing suit over time, leading to fading, stretching, and premature wear. Rinsing and washing removes the chlorine, and using sodium ascorbate neutralizes any remaining chlorine molecules. Gentle washing and air-drying prevent further damage to the delicate fabric.
