How to Remove Swimsuit Stains with a Stain Stick
By Mix n' Match Swimsuits & Swimwear | Kortni Jeane | Published: 2026-10-18
Category: Tips & Care
Learn how to use a stain stick to remove sunscreen, chlorine, and other common swimsuit stains. Keep your swimwear looking new with this simple hand-wash method.
Quick answer
Use a stain stick designed for swimwear to treat sunscreen, chlorine, and other stains right after wearing. Hand-wash your swimsuit with the stain stick, then rinse and air dry.
Why a stain stick works better than regular laundry soap
Swimwear fabric is delicate and can be damaged by harsh stain removers or bleach. A stain stick is gentle enough for swimsuit material but effective against common stains like sunscreen, chlorine, and dirt. It's also portable, so you can treat stains on the go.
When to treat stains for best results
For the best chance of removing a stain, treat it as soon as possible after wearing. Sunscreen and chlorine can set into the fabric over time, making them harder to remove. If you can't wash right away, rinse the suit in cool water and apply the stain stick to the spot.
How to remove swimsuit stains with a stain stick
- Rinse the swimsuit in cool water: Immediately after wearing, rinse your swimsuit under cool running water to remove loose sunscreen, chlorine, or salt. This prevents the stain from setting deeper into the fabric. Do not use hot water, which can set protein-based stains like sunscreen.
- Apply the stain stick directly to the stain: Wet the stain stick and rub it gently onto the stained area until it lathers. Focus on the edges of the stain first to prevent it from spreading. Let the lather sit for 5–10 minutes. Avoid scrubbing too hard, as this can damage the swimsuit's fibers.
- Hand-wash the swimsuit with cool water: Gently work the lather into the fabric using your fingers. Rinse thoroughly with cool water until all soap is gone. Repeat the process if the stain remains. Never wring or twist the swimsuit, as this can stretch the elastic.
- Air dry away from direct sunlight: Lay the swimsuit flat on a clean towel or hang it in a shaded area. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colors and weaken the fabric over time. Do not use a dryer or place the swimsuit on a radiator, as heat damages elastic.
Product used in this guide
- The Stain Stick: The KJ Stain Stick is hand held, portable, easy to use, and travel friendly. Gentle enough to use on your swimmers yet effective against hard to remove stains. You can keep it in your beach bag and treat stains immediately, which helps prevent permanent marks on your swimwear.
The Stain Stick
