How to Wash Speed Suits

Speed suits are one-piece, unisex garments that are often worn by runners and swimmers. These outfits are very thin and form-fitting. Speed suits are worn by athletes to increase their speed and stamina, and buoyancy in the water, according to "The Rider News." They are made from either 100 percent stretchy Lycra material, or a combination of Lycra and other materials. Because they are ultra stretchy, speed suits need to be washed properly so the material retains its color and elasticity.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Washing machine and dryer
• Laundry detergent
• All-fabric bleach
• Dry cleaner

1. Read the manufacturer's care tag inside the speed suit to find out how to wash it. Pure Lycra material can typically be laundered and dried in a washer and dryer. The dryer heat won't reduce the stretchiness of the Lycra. Instead, it will help it recover its stretch, according to Lycra.

2. Wash speed suits that are made with Lycra, but are mixed with other materials that require special care, according to their care tag instructions. If the other materials, binding, or trim, for example, need to be washed by hand, then wash the entire speed suit by hand.

3. Dry clean speed suits to clean them. Lycra recommends you take them to a professional dry cleaner in order to get the best results. The smell of the dry cleaning solvents stays in Lycra material longer than in other fabrics. Hang the speed suit up to air it out.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't use chlorine bleach to wash speed suits. It can change the color and damage the stretchy Lycra material. Use a bleach that's safe for all types of fabrics.

References

• Lycra

Resources

• The Rider News