How to clean and care for your swim cap

Swim caps are notorious for not lasting very long either because they simply break or because they are deemed to be too dirty. To avoid this and prolong the life of wearing a swim cap one should take good care of it as well as clean it properly.

In this article, we’ll talk about the importance of keeping your swim cap clean as well as how you best maintain it and keep it in good condition.

---

The short answer

It’s important that you always rinse your swim cap in fresh water after every use. Make sure it dries properly before storing it. Otherwise, mold might build up. If you happened to get mold in your swim cap you can clean it with a mix of water and vinegar.

---

Why do you need to clean and care for your swim cap?

Your swim cap will go through a lot… Between the sun exposure, salt water, and chlorine and you stretch it out there is not much time for it to rest. And once it is offered time to rest chances are that it will be moist and thrown in your bag.

Okay, maybe we took it a bit too far with the feelings of your swim cap. But as you can see, there is a lot affecting the condition of your swim caps.

Naturally, a swim cap will need to be replaced ever so often. However, if you try and care for it, mainly by washing and cleaning it properly it’ll last you longer.

Avoid causing tears in your cap

We’ve all probably been there. It can be due to a hair nail, or a sharp nail. But in one way or another, we’ve torn a hole in our swim cap. The thin silicone caps tend to easily break. Always be mindful of sharp objects when handling your swim caps. This is an easy way to avoid tearing holes in them and having to replace them with a new cap too early.

How to clean swim caps

Properly cleaning and storing your swim cap after each use is crucial to maintain its quality and prevent bacteria growth.

To clean your cap, rinse it thoroughly in fresh non-chlorinated water and gently dry it with a towel or allow it to hang dry.

You can also sprinkle talcum or baby powder inside the cap to absorb moisture and prevent sticking (this step is not necessary for LYCRA™ or mesh caps).

Between uses, store your cap in a protective case or a soft compartment in your bag to avoid damage from sharp objects.

By following these simple tips, you can help prolong the lifespan of your swim cap and ensure a comfortable and hygienic swimming experience.

How to dry your swim caps

After cleaning or swimming in your swim cap, it’s important to dry it properly to prevent mold and mildew growth. Here are some tips for drying your swim caps:

Gently squeeze out excess water: Before you start drying your swim cap, make sure to gently squeeze out any excess water. You can do this by using a towel to blot the cap or by simply squeezing it with your hands. Be careful not to wring the cap, as this can damage its shape.

Air dry: The best way to dry your swim cap is to let it air dry. You can do this by hanging it up in a well-ventilated area, such as on a clothesline or over the back of a chair. Make sure to choose a spot that is not in direct sunlight, as this can cause the cap to fade or become brittle.

Avoid using a hairdryer: While it may be tempting to speed up the drying process, this can damage the cap’s material and cause it to lose shape. Instead, let it dry naturally.

Store it properly: Once your swim cap is completely dry, it’s important to store it properly to prevent damage. You can do this by rolling it up and placing it in a dry, cool place, such as a drawer or swim bag. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or in a damp environment, as this can cause mold and mildew growth.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your swim caps in great condition for many swimming seasons to come.

Do you have to clean your swim cap after every use?

This depends on what you mean by “cleaning”. No, you do not need to thoroughly clean your swim cap after every use. However, yes you should always rinse your swimming caps in fresh water after every use.

Doing so will make sure your swim cap lasts longer and you don’t have to get a new cap all that often.

How to clean a swim cap from mold or mildew?

If not cared for, swim caps can start to build up mold. A moldy silicone cap is nothing you want. You can prevent this from happening but taking good care of your swim cap. However, what do you do if your swim cap has started to build up mold or mildew?

The solution is fairly simple and it spells vinegar. Mixing a small amount of vinegar with water creates a solution that can easily clean the mold from your swim cap without damaging it.

Here are the steps to clean mold out of a swim cap with vinegar:

1. Fill a bowl or sink with equal parts water and white vinegar.

2. Submerge the swim cap in the mixture and let it soak for at least 30 minutes.

3. Use a soft-bristled brush or cloth to gently scrub the moldy areas of the swim cap. Be sure to pay extra attention to the areas with visible mold growth.

4. Rinse the swim cap thoroughly with clean water to remove any vinegar residue.

5. Hang the swim cap to dry completely before using it again.

White vinegar is an effective and natural cleaning solution that can kill mold and mildew. It is also a safe alternative to harsh chemicals that can damage swim caps. In addition to cleaning swim caps, vinegar can also be used to clean other swimming gear such as goggles, swim fins, and snorkels.

It is important to note that prevention is the best way to avoid mold growth on your swimming caps. After each use, rinse your swim cap with clean water and let it air dry completely before storing it. Additionally, avoid storing your swim cap in a damp or dark place, as this can encourage mold growth.

Vinegar is an effective and natural solution for cleaning mold out of a swim cap. By following these steps and taking preventive measures, you can keep your swim cap clean and mold-free for longer.

How to prevent mold in a swim cap

As a swimmer, you know that mold can be a common problem with swim caps, especially if they are not properly cared for. Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can take to prevent mold from growing on your swim cap.

Here are some tips to prevent mold in a swim cap:

1. Rinse your swim cap after each use: After you swim, be sure to rinse your swim cap with clean water. This will help remove any chlorine or other chemicals that may be on the cap, which can contribute to mold growth.

2. Dry your swim cap completely: Before storing your swim cap, make sure it is completely dry. If the cap is damp or wet, it can create an environment where mold can grow. Hang your swim cap up to dry or lay it out flat in a well-ventilated area. You can also use a soft towel to dry it out before handing it.

3. Store your swim cap in a dry place: After your swim cap is dry, store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing it in a damp or humid area, such as a gym bag, where mold can thrive.

4. Use a disinfectant solution: Occasionally, you may want to disinfect your swim cap to prevent mold growth. You can use a solution of white vinegar and water (equal parts) or a mild soap solution to wipe down your swim cap. Be sure to rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow the cap to dry completely before storing.

5. Rotate between swim caps: If you swim frequently, it may be a good idea to rotate between two or more swim caps. This will allow each cap to fully dry between uses, reducing the risk of mold growth.

By following these tips, you can prevent mold from growing on your swim cap and extend the life of your swim gear. Remember to rinse your swim cap after each use, dry it completely, store it in a dry place, use a disinfectant solution as needed, and consider rotating between swim caps if you swim frequently. With proper care, your swim cap will stay clean and mold-free for longer.

How to store your swim cap between uses

Proper storage ensures that your swim cap remains in good condition, maintains its elasticity, and lasts longer.

Here are some tips for storing your swim cap between uses:

Rinse and dry your swim cap: After each use, rinse your swim cap with cold water to remove any chlorine or saltwater. Squeeze out any excess water and let it air dry. Avoid drying it in direct sunlight as it can damage the cap’s material.

Store in a cool, dry place: Store your swim cap in a cool and dry place. Avoid storing it in a humid area as it can cause the material to deteriorate. A swim cap pouch is a great option for storage as it protects it from dust and damage.

Avoid sharp objects: Keep your swim cap away from sharp objects such as jewelry or hair clips, as they can puncture or tear the material.

Avoid folding or stretching: Do not fold or stretch your swim cap when storing it. Instead, place it flat or roll it up gently.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your swim cap remains in good condition between uses. A well-maintained swim cap will last longer and save you money in the long run.

Conclusion

Taking care of a swim cap may not be the most glamorous of tasks, but it is necessary if you want to make sure that it lasts.

To help extend the life of your swim cap, rinse it in fresh water after each use and allow to air dry – preferably on a towel.

Pro-tip; using a mixture of vinegar and water can help remove any mold or buildup from the surface.

Finally, always store your swim cap in a cool, dry place with no direct sunlight to prevent damage or deterioration from exposure to the elements. Investing in a few precautionary steps now will save you time and money down the road.

Whether it’s picking up a pouch for storage or double-checking that there isn’t any chlorine left on them after you’re finished swimming, making sure you take care of your swim cap is an invaluable habit worth investing time into.

With these tips in mind, we ask you – what’s your best tip for taking care of your swim cap? Let us know!

---

Bestsellers

Read more

• Different types of men’s swim trunks
• Board shorts with and without liner [Complete guide 2022]
• Board shorts vs. swim trunks, what’s the difference?
• Best men’s swim shorts for your body type
• 8 things you need to know about Jon Olsson