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How to care for kids' summer clothes after the beach
Deux par Deux
After a fun-filled day at the beach, you often bring back more than memories—think sand in the pockets, sunscreen stains, and salty smells in the fabric. At Deux par deux, we know summer is full of adventure for little ones—but also small challenges when it comes to laundry! Here are our best tips for how to care for kids' clothes after the beach gently and effectively.
First steps: shake, rinse, sort
Before tossing clothes into the laundry basket, take a moment to give them a good shake to remove sand, small stones, or dry debris. A quick rinse under clear water helps get rid of salt, chlorine, or sunscreen residue. This step is essential to avoid damaging the fibers over time.
Next, sort clothes by color and material: swimsuits and technical fabrics in one pile, cotton t-shirts and shorts in another. Sorting laundry may seem tedious, but it’s one of the easiest ways to extend the life of your children's garments and keep them vibrant.
Gentle washing to protect delicate fabrics
Summer clothing tends to be lighter and more colorful, so it needs a little extra care. Use lukewarm (or cold) water and a gentle detergent. Avoid bleach or harsh cleaners, especially on stretchy fabrics or UV-protective garments. When in doubt, choose eco-friendly or baby-safe detergents—they're often just what sensitive fabrics need.
Our guide How to wash baby clothes walks you through all the steps for treating delicate fabrics—definitely worth bookmarking.
If you’re traveling or away from home, consider packing a small sachet of detergent and doing quick washes in the sink. It's a great hack for vacations!
Special care for swimsuits
Swimsuits take the brunt of sun, sand, and chlorine. To make them last:
- Wash them by hand in cold water right after use
- Never put them in the dryer
- Lay them flat in the shade to dry and avoid stretching
Check out our swimwear collections made for summer adventures: Girls' Swimwear and Boys' Swimwear. Designed to be comfy, cute, and easy to care for!
Looking for expert advice? These articles are full of helpful swimwear care tips:
Drying: always air-dry
Drying matters too. Avoid direct sunlight to preserve colors, and always air-dry flat or on a hanger—especially for more fragile items. While dryers are convenient, they can wear out lightweight fabrics quickly.
Pro tip: hang up clothes right after washing to prevent wrinkles and musty odors. Make sure the drying space is well ventilated to avoid mildew buildup, especially in humid climates.
Bonus tip: seasonal storage done right
At the end of summer, make sure all clothes are clean and dry before storing. Fold them neatly and keep them in breathable bags or sealed boxes until next season. A small pouch of lavender or cedar can help keep everything smelling fresh.
If you have older kids, let them help with the end-of-season sorting—it’s a great opportunity to teach them how to care for their own clothes and appreciate the value of good habits.
A simple, consistent, and gentle care routine for kids' clothes after the beach will keep your little one’s outfits looking great summer after summer!