Which Swimsuit Material Is More Durable in Chlorine?

With a swimsuit that offers protection against the harsh effects of chlorine, you can swim without worry.

Durable Materials

Most swimsuit materials hold up fairly well with exposure to chlorine. Suits made with blends of Lycra, the trademark name for spandex, offer resistance to breakage due to elongated, elastic fibers. Polyester suits also withstand the effects of chlorine, as the material dries quickly and holds its shape when you expose it to moisture. Another option is nylon, a synthetic, lightweight material characterized by shiny, resilient fibers that provide resistance to most chemical abrasion. Of the three materials, blends of Lycra offer the most durability in chlorine.

An Alternative

Swimsuit fabrics will break down and fibers will fade and fragment with repeated exposure to chlorine. Suits that contain a recent development in swimwear, polyurethaneurea elastic, are slightly higher in cost but ultimately prevent chemical absorption. The elastic fiber is composed of tightly woven plastic threads that block chlorine and salt and often is combined with comfortable, durable nylon fibers.

Bottom Line

Swimsuits made with the newest swimwear technology offer the most resistance to chlorine in the long run. Suits made with blends of spandex, polyester or nylon are inexpensive, short-term options that also endure the effects of chlorine. With research prior to your swimsuit purchase and proper care after each use, you can extend the often seasonal life expectancy of your suit.

References

• All About Water: Chlorine, Swimsuits, and the Five Stages of Grief
• Aquatic Consulting Services: Pool Tip #15 Swimsuit Damage from Chlorine
• Greenhouse Aquatics: Chlorine Resistant Swimwear