Oftentimes, the discomfort of a bathing suit that is tight can hinder one from vacationing or having a swing at the pool. Also, there are moments in life our swimsuits tend not to fit anymore due to an increase in size. And the next thing we could do is trash them.
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However, rather than trashing them or giving them away, here’s a method you could use to retain them back. That is, stretching a swimsuit to fit like a second skin. But then, how can one pull through with it without a single knowledge of how to stretch a swimsuit bottom?
Below are the common methods on how to stretch out swimsuit bottoms:
- Soak in warm water
- Use a fabric stretcher
- Manual stretching
- Steaming
- Wear them around the house
Do Swimsuit Bottoms Stretch Out?
How to Stretch Bathing Suit Bottoms
Method 1: Soak in Warm Water
One simple and effective method to stretch bathing suit bottoms is by soaking them in warm water. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Fill a Sink or Basin
Fill a sink or basin with warm water. Make sure the water is not too hot, as excessive heat can damage the fabric.
Step 2: Add Fabric Softener (Optional)
For an extra stretch, you can add a small amount of fabric softener to the water. This will help relax the fibers of the bathing suit fabric.
Step 3: Submerge the Bottoms
Place the bathing suit bottoms into the warm water and ensure they are fully submerged. Gently press them down to remove any air bubbles.
Step 4: Let it Soak
Allow the bottoms to soak in the warm water for approximately 30 minutes. This will help relax the fabric and make it more pliable for stretching.
Step 5: Stretch the Bottoms
After the soaking period, remove the bathing suit bottoms from the water and carefully stretch them in the areas that need more room. You can pull gently on the fabric or wear the bottoms while they are damp to mold them to your desired fit.
Step 6: Air Dry
Once you have stretched the bathing suit bottoms to your satisfaction, lay them flat on a clean towel and let them air dry. Avoid using direct heat, such as a dryer, as it can cause shrinkage or damage the elastic.
Method 2: Use a Fabric Stretcher
Another effective method for stretching bathing suit bottoms is by using a fabric stretcher. This method is particularly useful for targeted stretching of specific areas. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Purchase a Fabric Stretcher
Obtain a fabric stretcher specifically designed for stretching clothes. These stretchers are available online or at specialty stores.
Step 2: Position the Stretcher
Place the fabric stretcher inside the bathing suit bottoms, positioning it in the area that needs stretching. Make sure the stretcher is adjusted to the desired width.
Step 3: Apply Tension
Slowly turn the tightening mechanism of the fabric stretcher to apply gentle tension to the bathing suit fabric. Avoid overstretching, as it may cause damage.
Step 4: Leave Overnight
Allow the bathing suit bottoms to sit with the fabric stretcher overnight or for a minimum of several hours. This will give the fabric ample time to stretch.
Step 5: Remove the Stretcher
Carefully remove the fabric stretcher from the bathing suit bottoms, ensuring not to disrupt the stretched fabric. The bottoms should now have a more comfortable fit.
Method 3: Manual Stretching
Manual stretching is a simple technique that allows you to stretch bathing suit bottoms by hand. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Identify the Tight Areas
Put on the bathing suit bottoms and determine the areas that feel tight. Mark these areas with safety pins or fabric chalk for reference.
Step 2: Stretch the Fabric
While wearing the bottoms, gently pull on the marked areas to stretch the fabric. Apply gradual pressure to avoid tearing or damaging the material.
Step 3: Hold the Stretch
Once you have achieved the desired stretch, hold the fabric in its stretched position for a few seconds. This will help the material relax and adapt to the new shape.
Step 4: Repeat as Needed
If necessary, repeat the stretching process in other tight areas until the bathing suit bottoms provide a comfortable fit.
Method 4: Steaming
Steaming is another method that can be used to stretch bathing suit bottoms. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Hang the Bottoms
Hang the bathing suit bottoms on a sturdy hanger, ensuring that they are not touching any surfaces.
Step 2: Steam the Fabric
Using a handheld steamer or a garment steamer, apply steam to the tight areas of the bathing suit bottoms. Move the steamer in a back-and-forth motion while keeping it a few inches away from the fabric.
Step 3: Stretch the Fabric
As you steam the fabric, gently stretch the tight areas using your hands. The combination of steam and stretching will help relax the fibers and allow for a better fit.
Step 4: Let it Dry
After steaming and stretching, allow the bathing suit bottoms to dry completely before wearing them. Hanging them in a well-ventilated area will expedite the drying process.
Method 5: Wear Them Around the House
Sometimes, the best way to stretch bathing suit bottoms is simply by wearing them around the house. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Put on the Bottoms
Put on the bathing suit bottoms and wear them for an extended period, such as a few hours or even a full day. The warmth and movement of your body will help stretch the fabric.
Step 2: Move and Stretch
While wearing the bottoms, engage in light activities that involve stretching and movement, such as gentle exercises or stretching routines. This will aid in stretching the fabric and adapting it to your body shape.
Step 3: Repeat as Needed
If the bottoms still feel tight after the initial wear, repeat the process for a few more days until they provide a comfortable fit.
How Do You Know If Your Bathing Suit Bottom Is Too Small?
1. Digging In
The most noticeable sign is when the swimsuit digs into your skin, creating noticeable indents. This happens when the elastic is too tight and can’t stretch enough to comfortably accommodate your body.
2. Spillover
Another sign is when your skin spills over the edges of the swimsuit bottom. This is often referred to as the “muffin top” effect.
3. You Feel Uncomfortable
If you feel discomfort while wearing the swimsuit, especially when moving or sitting, it’s likely that the bottom is too small.
4. Your Movement Will Be Restricted
If your range of motion is restricted, or if the swimsuit bottom constantly rides up, it’s another indication of a poor fit.
5. The Lining Becomes Visible
If the lining of the swimsuit bottom becomes visible when you put it on, it’s a sign that the material is stretching too far, indicating that the size may be too small.
How Should A Bathing Suit Bottom Fit?
A bathing suit bottom should fit snugly, but not too tightly. It should comfortably hug your body without digging into your skin or causing any spillover. The waistband should sit flat against your body and the leg openings should not restrict your movement or cause any discomfort. There shouldn’t be any excessive bunching or gapping in the material.
Conclusion
Stretching of a swimsuit to fit isn’t much of a task. So why trash wears that can be adjusted and made whole with just a few touches?
Take hold of that suit bottom and do justice to it to keep enjoying every aura of summer with it. Trust me, you’ll feel grateful for following these steps in achieving the best wear to slay on.
