Men's Rashguard and Boardies Care Guide
By Mix n' Match Swimsuits & Swimwear | Kortni Jeane | Published: 2026-10-29
Category: Tips & Care
Learn how to properly wash, dry, and store your men's rashguard and boardies to extend their life and maintain performance.
Quick Answer
Rinse your rashguard and boardies in cold water immediately after use, hand wash with mild detergent, and air dry away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and fabric breakdown.
Why Separate Care Matters for Rashguards vs. Boardies
Rashguards are made from stretchy, UV-blocking swimwear fabric that is NOT lined and has no added UV treatment—the sun protection comes from the fabric itself. Boardies are unlined, meant to be worn with compression shorts, and feature a zip front, hidden ties, and stretchy material for active wear. Because the fabrics and constructions differ, each requires slightly different attention during care to maintain fit and function.
Step-by-Step Rashguard and Boardies Care
- Rinse Immediately After Use: Rinse both items in cool, fresh water as soon as you're done swimming. Salt, chlorine, sand, and sunscreen residues break down swim fabric over time. Don't let saltwater or chlorine dry into the fabric—rinse within 30 minutes.
- Hand Wash with Mild Detergent: Fill a basin with cold water and add a small amount of mild, bleach-free detergent. Submerge the rashguard and boardies, gently squeeze suds through the fabric, and rinse thoroughly. Avoid wringing or twisting. Never use hot water or fabric softener—they can damage elasticity and UV protection.
- Close Zippers and Ties Before Washing: For boardies, zip the front closure and tie the hidden waist ties loosely. This prevents the zipper from snagging the fabric and keeps ties from tangling. An open zipper can catch on the rashguard fabric during washing—always secure it first.
- Air Dry Away from Direct Sunlight: Lay the rashguard flat on a towel or hang both items in the shade. Do not use a dryer, radiator, or direct sun—high heat shrinks and fades swim fabrics. Direct sunlight accelerates fading; choose a well-ventilated shaded spot.
- Store Flat or Folded, Not Stuffed: Once completely dry, fold the rashguard and boardies loosely and store them in a drawer or on a shelf. Avoid hanging by the straps or waistband for long periods, as that can stretch out the fabric. Storing damp swimwear in a bag or hamper invites mildew—always dry fully before putting away.
Products Referenced in This Guide
- Blue Denim | Men's Rashguard Top: Long sleeves for extra sun protection; swimwear fabric has natural UV blocking properties (no added UV treatment). NOT lined. Avoid fabric softeners and bleach that can degrade the natural UV-blocking ability of the fabric.
Blue Denim | Men's Rashguard Top - Men's Boardies: Unlined; made from stretchy material; zip front with button closure; hidden ties at waist. Always close the zipper and ties before washing to prevent snagging, and never use high heat which can damage the stretchy fibers.
Men's Boardies
