By Cori McDougald, Certified Professional Organizer®
Summer is here, and it’s time to hit the pool or the beach! But before you dive in, let’s tackle the task of organizing your swimwear. Whether you have a few go-to pieces or a variety of swimsuits for every occasion, keeping them organized can save you time and frustration. Here’s our guide to help you streamline your swimwear collection and keep everything in its place.
1. Declutter Your Collection
Before you start organizing, take inventory of what you have. Lay out all your swimsuits and assess each one. Ask yourself:
- Does it fit well?
- Is it still in good condition?
- Do I feel confident wearing it?
Donate or discard any swimsuits that no longer meet your needs. This step helps you create space and ensures that you only keep what you love and wear.
2. Categorize by Type and Occasion
Sort your swimsuits into categories such as:
- Bikinis
- One-pieces
- Tankinis
- Cover-ups
- Swim shorts
- Swim shirts
You can further categorize them by occasion:
- Everyday wear
- Competitive swimming/Sports/Workout Swimwear
- Special occasions (e.g., vacations, pool parties)
3. Choose the Right Storage Solutions
Invest in storage solutions that suit your space and needs. Here are some ideas:
- Drawer Dividers: Use dividers to keep your swimsuits separated and easy to find.
- Baskets and Bins: Clear bins are perfect for visual organization. Label them for easy identification.
- Hanging Organizers: Use a hanging organizer with pockets to store swimwear vertically in your closet. I personally love this one – as I need to be able to see all of my swimsuits!
4. Fold or Roll Your Swimwear
To maximize space and keep your swimsuits in good condition, consider folding or rolling them. Here’s how:
- Folding: Fold each piece neatly, ensuring straps are tucked in to prevent tangling. Nest each cup inside of each cup, and you’re left with a smaller, more manageable version of your suit top!
- Rolling: Roll each swimsuit from the bottom up. This method reduces creases and saves space.
5. Store by Frequency of Use
Place your most frequently worn swimsuits in easily accessible locations. Seasonal or less frequently used items can be stored higher up or further back. This ensures you’re not rummaging through all your swimwear every time you need a suit.
6. Keep Cover-ups and Accessories Together
Organize cover-ups, sarongs, and swim accessories like goggles, swim caps, and sunscreen in the same area. This makes it easy to grab everything you need for a swim day without searching through multiple places.
7. Maintain Your Organization
Regularly review and tidy your swimwear collection. After each swim season, reassess your swimsuits and make necessary adjustments. This keeps your collection manageable and up-to-date. If you notice suits that you didn’t wear this year (and maybe you didn’t wear them last year either), its time to let them go!
Bonus Tips for Swimwear Care
- Rinse After Use: Always rinse your swimsuits in cold water after swimming to remove chlorine, salt, and sunscreen.
- Hand Wash: Hand wash your swimsuits with a gentle detergent to prolong their life.
- Air Dry: Lay your swimsuits flat to dry, avoiding direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Final Thoughts
Organizing your swimwear collection doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these steps, you can create an efficient and accessible system that keeps your swimsuits in top condition and ready for any adventure. Enjoy a stress-free swim season this summer with a neatly organized collection that makes finding your favorite suit a breeze!
Feel free to share your own tips and tricks for organizing swimwear in the comments below. Happy swimming!
