Hand wash your competition bikini in lukewarm water with gentle detergent, never machine wash, don't soak, only rinse under water, gently squeeze out water (don't wring), and lay flat to air dry away from direct sunlight. White glue residue will disappear once completely dry.
Your competition suit is one of your biggest investments—often $200-$800+. One improper wash can destroy it.
Why Proper Care Matters
- Protects your $200-$800 investment
- Extends suit lifespan across multiple shows
- Keeps rhinestones secure and sparkling
- Maintains resale value (well-kept suits recoup 40-60% of cost)
The 5 Biggest Care Mistakes
| Mistake | Why It Hurts |
|---|---|
| Machine washing | Tumbling loosens rhinestones, cracks stones, twists fabric |
| Soaking too long | Breaks down glue—stones fall off |
| Harsh detergents/bleach | Eats through glue, discolors fabric |
| Wringing out suit | Warps fabric, creates pressure points where stones crack |
| Drying in direct sunlight | Fades colors, weakens glue through heat |
How to Wash Your Competition Bikini (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Fill Sink With Lukewarm Water
Not hot (damages glue), not cold (won't clean). Lukewarm is ideal.
Step 2: Add Gentle Detergent
Use ONE of these (small amount):
- Baby shampoo ✓
- Lingerie wash ✓
- Woolite for delicates ✓
Do NOT use: bleach, fabric softener, regular laundry detergent
Step 3: Rinse under water.
Gently swish—don't scrub. Longer soaking weakens glue.
Step 4: Remove Tan Stains Carefully
Rub gently with fingertips. For stubborn tan, turn inside out and apply tiny bit of baby shampoo directly.
Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly
Cool, clean water until ALL soap is gone. Rinse multiple times if needed.
Step 6: Remove Water GENTLY
- Never wring or twist
- Gently squeeze against sink
- Or roll in clean towel and press
How to Dry Properly
- Lay flat on clean towel OR hang on padded hanger
- Keep away from direct sunlight
- Keep away from heat sources
- Allow 24-48 hours to dry completely
White residue on glue? This is normal. It disappears once completely dry. Don't panic or pick at it.
How to Store Between Shows
✅ Store flat in garment bag or cloth bag
✅ Keep rhinestones facing OUTWARD (so they don't scratch each other)
✅ Cool, dry place
✅ Make sure suit is completely dry first
❌ Don't store crumpled
❌ Don't store while damp
❌ Don't let rhinestones rub against each other
Removing Specific Stains
| Stain | How to Remove |
|---|---|
| Spray tan | Baby shampoo + gentle fingertip rubbing |
| Body glue | Baby oil on fingertips, then wash normally |
| Makeup | Dab with micellar water, then wash normally |
| Sweat | Regular gentle wash handles it |
When Rhinestones Fall Off
Don't panic—this is fixable.
Before first show: Saleyla offers FREE stone reattachment. Email photos and they'll restore at no cost.
After first show: Use rhinestone glue for DIY fixes, or contact Saleyla for professional reattachment quote.
Pro tip: Inspect suit before each show. Fix loose stones BEFORE stepping on stage.
How Often Should You Wash?
After every wear. Don't leave tan, glue, or sweat on your suit overnight.
- After shows ✓
- After photoshoots ✓
- After practice posing ✓
Washing within 24 hours makes cleanup easier and prevents long-term damage.
Extending Suit Lifespan
With proper care, many competitors get 4-6 shows from a single suit.
The difference between a suit that looks stage-ready after 5 shows vs. worn out after 2? Consistent care.
Bonus: Well-maintained suits sell for premium prices on Poshmark and Mercari.
FAQs
Can I machine wash my competition bikini?
No. Machine washing—even on delicate—loosens rhinestones, cracks stones, and damages fabric. Always hand wash.
How do I remove stubborn spray tan stains?
Gently rub stained areas with a brush. Turn inside out for areas where tan absorbed into fabric.
Why is glue turning white after washing?
Normal. The glue is rehydrating and drying. Once completely dry (24-48 hours), white disappears and glue returns to clear.
How should I store my suit between shows?
Flat or hanging in garment bag. Rhinestones facing outward. Cool, dry place. Never while damp.
What if rhinestones start falling off?
Before first show = free repair from Saleyla. After first show = DIY with rhinestone glue or professional repair for a fee.
How often should I wash?
After every wear. Don't leave tan, glue, or sweat overnight.
Ready to Protect Your Investment?
Browse Saleyla's custom competition bikini suits with hand-applied rhinestones built to last. For accessories, visit the accessories collection.
Questions about care or need stone repair? Book a free consultation with our design team.
