Heat is what kills elastane. A tumble dryer degrades it faster than years of wearing, which is why stretch jeans go baggy at the knee.
How to wash elastane and spandex blends
| Garment | Wash | Dry | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elastane and Spandex Blends | cold, 30°C (86°F) maximum | line dry only | mild, absolutely no softener or bleach |
Use a gentle, low spin cycle and mild, absolutely no softener or bleach. Chlorine and body oils both break the fibre down, so swimwear should be rinsed in cold fresh water immediately after every use.
Drying and ironing
Dry line dry only. For ironing: avoid entirely.
Even 2% elastane in a cotton blend changes the whole garment’s care requirements — the blend must be treated as the more delicate fibre.
How long it should last
Two to five years; the elastane fails long before the base fibre does.
Quick reference
Elastane and Spandex Blends at a glance
- Wash: cold, 30°C (86°F) maximum
- Cycle: gentle, low spin
- Detergent: mild, absolutely no softener or bleach
- Dry: line dry only
- Iron: avoid entirely