If you’re anything like us, you live in your suit all summer long. Follow these simple tips to extend the lifespan of your T9 suit.

1) Rinse out promptly - Sunscreens, lotions, chlorine, perspiration and body oils can all do a number on the resilience of swim fabric elasticity, so prompt cleaning is important.

2) Hand-wash with mild soap - The agitator of a washing machine can stretch out a suit. Use a mild liquid soap to keep colors bright (in a pinch, a dab of shampoo will do).

3) Lay it flat to dry - Avoid the temptation to wring out every last drop of water or hang up a wet suit. Roll it up in a clean dry towel and lay it flat to dry (and out of direct sunlight).

4) Rotate swimsuits - Fabrics with spandex have the ability to “bounce back” after drying. So bring more than one suit and give each one 24 hours to completely dry after washing.

5) Lay a towel down - Watch out for rough surfaces that can snag or pill a suit, like wooden benches and concrete. Once damaged, swim fabric cannot be repaired.

6) Designate a hot tub suit - Hot water is bad for swim fabric, and so are the chemicals used in chlorine and bromine. If you hot tub a lot, use the same suit every time (and avoid using one of your favorites)