Tossing your suit in the wash—even in a mesh bag, even on the gentle cycle—is a mistake, says Steve Boorstein, aka
The Clothing Doctor. Skip the washer and the detergent, and simply rinse your suit with water after each dip in the pool. If a salt-water or chlorine smell still lingers, soak it in water mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar. And to prevent chlorine or salt-water damage in the first place, wet your suit with regular water before taking a dip in the pool or ocean.
