What is the best way to treat suntan lotion stains?

The best way to treat suntan lotion stains is by pre-treating the stain with white vinegar and salt, washing it in the washing machine, spot treating with bleach, and finishing off with a stain repellent spray.

Is it okay to put swim trunks in the dryer?

No, it is not recommended to put swim trunks in the dryer. The heat from the dryer can shrink the fabric and permanently damage the swim trunks. Instead, air-dry them in a sunny spot outdoors!

WikiLaundry > Stains > Suntan lotion > Swim trunks

7 Key Techniques to Get Rid of Suntan Lotion Stains from Swim Trunks

Nothing ruins a beach outing faster than sun tan lotion stains on your swim trunks! But don't worry, you don't have to ditch them just yet! Here are 7 helpful tips to clean stubborn suntan lotion stains out of your favorite swim trunks.

Updated 13 Mar 2023

By Blaž Stančič

1. Preparing the Swim Trunks

Start by dampening the affected area with lukewarm water.
Then, gently rub area with a soft cloth or sponge.
Once the area is damp, it's time to move onto the pre-treatment process.

2. Pre-Treat the Suntan Lotion Stain

To pre-treat the stain, first use white vinegar and rub it into the area.
Once the vinegar is applied, sprinkle some salt onto area and let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes.
Finally, use a toothbrush to fully work the mixture into the fabric of the swim trunks.

3. Wash the Stained Area in Washing Machine

Once the pre-treatment is done, throw the swim trunks in the washing machine.
Add a scoop of detergent, set it on a delicate cycle, and wash in cold water.
Once cycle is finished, check swim trunks for any remaining traces of the stain.

4. Spot Treatment with Bleach

If there's still any sign of suntan lotion stain, mix a bleach solution by combining one tablespoon of bleach with a cup of warm water.
Dip a soft cloth into the solution, and then lightly dab it onto the affected area.
Let the spot treatment sit for 10 minutes, and then rinse it off with cold water.

5. Air Dry the Swim Trunks

Once area is rinsed, take the swim trunks outside and let them air-dry in sun.
Never leave your swim trunks to dry in the dryer! This can cause shrinkage and damage the fabric.
Instead, be patient and let nature do its work for you!

6. Soak the Swim Trunks

To give your swim trunks an extra boost of freshness, soak them overnight in a solution of 1 cup of white vinegar and 2 cups of cold water.
In the morning, rinse the trunks with lukewarm water and hang them up to air-dry.

7. Apply a Stain Repellent

Finally, give your swim trunks a little bit of extra protection with a stain repellent spray.
Simply spray it onto the fabric and let it dry completely.
Your swim trunks will now be resistant to future stains!

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