Your swim shorts should last much longer than just one summer, especially when they’re made with purpose. At Blauw, we design recycled swim shorts using high-quality yarn made from ocean plastic. They’re built to perform and last. But like anything, they thrive with a little care. Whether you’re rinsing off after a saltwater swim or packing for your next trip, here’s how to take care of your sustainable swimwear for men so it stays looking great (and doing good) season after season.
1. Rinse After Every Swim
Salt, chlorine, and sunscreen can all take a toll on swimwear. After each use, give your shorts a quick rinse in cold, fresh water to remove residue and protect the fabric’s elasticity and color.
2. Avoid the Dryer (and Direct Sun for Too Long)
Heat breaks down elastic fibers and fades colors over time. Hang your eco-friendly swimwear in the shade to air dry, preferably flat. Avoid wringing them out - just roll in a towel and press gently.
3. Use a Microplastic Washing Bag
When machine washing, always use a Guppyfriend bag or similar microfiber filter. Even recycled swimwear can shed tiny fibers over time, and using a filter helps prevent them from entering our waterways.
4. Wash Gently, Less Often
Machine wash on cold with a gentle detergent. Ideally one that’s biodegradable and plastic-free. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners, and skip the wash altogether unless absolutely necessary. Most of the time, a rinse is more than enough.
5. Store Them Right
Don’t ball them up wet in your bag. Make sure your recycled swim shorts are fully dry before storing to prevent odor or mildew. Fold and keep in a cool, dry place.
6. Wear with Intention
Blauw shorts are designed to be versatile: for the beach, the boat, the boardwalk. But avoid rough surfaces (like sitting on concrete) that may snag the fabric, and rotate between pairs to give each one some rest.
A Longer Lasting Impact
Sustainable swimwear for men isn’t just about what it’s made from — it’s how you care for it. Every small choice adds up. When you treat your shorts with care, they last longer, perform better, and leave an even smaller footprint behind.
Making you look good above the surface, and do good below it.