There’s nothing like a refreshing dip in the pool until you catch that persistent chlorine smell clinging to your skin, your hair turns green, or your favorite swimsuit starts to fade. Whether you're a daily swimmer, a vacation pool-hopper, or just taking the kids for a splash, chlorine has a sneaky way of overstaying its welcome. From dry, itchy skin to brittle hair and discolored swimwear, the post-pool struggle is real.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to remove chlorine from bathing suits, hair, and skin effectively, so you can enjoy pool days without worrying about damage or irritation.

Why Is Chlorine So Tough to Wash Off?

Chlorine is a powerful disinfectant that keeps pool water free of harmful bacteria. However, that same strength makes it difficult to remove from the body and fabrics.

Here’s why chlorine lingers:

  • It binds to proteins in your hair and skin.

  • It damages fabric fibers, causing fading and loss of elasticity.

  • It cannot be removed by water alone.

This means that simply rinsing after swimming won’t fully eliminate chlorine. To truly clean and protect your body and clothing, you need to neutralize chlorine using specific methods and ingredients.

How to Remove Chlorine from Your Bathing Suit

Your swimsuit goes through a lot each time you dive in. Chlorine exposure can cause fading, loss of stretch, and even fabric breakdown. Follow these steps to extend the life of your swimwear:

1. Rinse Immediately After Swimming

As soon as you step out of the pool, rinse your swimsuit in cold, clean water. The faster you rinse, the less time chlorine has to degrade the fabric.

2. Hand Wash with Gentle Detergent

Avoid the washing machine. Instead, gently hand wash with a mild detergent formulated for delicates or swimsuits. For best results, use a chlorine-neutralizing detergent to remove chemical residues completely.

3. Use White Vinegar for a Deep Clean

To get rid of the chlorine smell, soak your suit for 15–30 minutes in a solution of 1 tablespoon white vinegar per quart of cold water. Vinegar breaks the chlorine bond safely and effectively.

4. Air Dry Only

Never wring or machine-dry your swimsuit. Lay it flat on a towel, reshape it, and let it air dry naturally. Heat damages elastic fibers and shortens the suit’s lifespan.

Pro Tip: Keep a small bottle of vinegar and mild detergent in your pool bag for quick, on-the-go cleaning.

How to Remove Chlorine from Hair

Chlorine can make your hair dull, brittle, and even green-tinged, especially for blondes or color-treated hair. Here’s how to remove chlorine from hair and restore shine:

1. Wet Hair Before Swimming

Rinse your hair with clean water before entering the pool. Saturated strands absorb less chlorine, helping reduce damage.

2. Wear a Silicone Swim Cap

A silicone swim cap provides superior protection compared to latex and is especially beneficial for dyed or fragile hair.

3. Rinse and Shampoo Immediately

After swimming, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Use a swimmer-specific or clarifying shampoo to break down chlorine bonds and wash them away.

4. Deep Condition Weekly

Rehydrate and restore your hair’s natural oils by applying a deep-conditioning mask once a week. Look for formulas containing keratin, aloe vera, coconut oil, or argan oil.

5. Skip the Heat Styling

Avoid blow dryers or straighteners after swimming. Chlorine and heat can worsen dryness and breakage. If styling is necessary, use a heat protectant spray and lower temperatures.

Expert Tip: Before swimming, apply a leave-in conditioner or coconut oil to create a barrier between your hair and chlorine. It’s a simple hack that makes a big difference.

How to Remove Chlorine from Skin

Chlorine can strip your skin’s natural moisture barrier, leaving it dry, tight, or irritated. Here’s how to restore smooth, hydrated skin after swimming:

1. Take a Lukewarm Shower Immediately

Use a gentle, moisturizing body wash to remove chlorine from skin. Avoid hot water, as it can worsen dryness and irritation.

2. Moisturize Right Away

Pat your skin dry and apply a fragrance-free moisturizer or body oil while it’s still damp. Look for ingredients like shea butter, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or oatmeal.

3. Try a Baking Soda or Oatmeal Bath

If your skin feels itchy or inflamed, soak in warm water with 1 cup of baking soda or colloidal oatmeal. These natural remedies neutralize chlorine and soothe irritation fast.

4. Reapply Sunscreen

After your post-pool shower, don’t forget sunscreen. Chlorine makes skin more sun-sensitive, so apply a mineral-based SPF before heading outdoors again.

5. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water replenishes your skin from within. Add hydrating snacks like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges for an extra boost.

How to Get Rid of Chlorine Stains on Clothes

Sometimes chlorine splashes onto your clothing or towels, leaving behind stains or a strong odor. Here’s how to fix it:

  • Rinse immediately with cold water.

  • Treat stains using color-safe bleach or oxygen-based cleaner.

  • Soak items in equal parts vinegar and water for 30 minutes before washing.

  • Add baking soda to the rinse cycle to eliminate chlorine odors.

Avoid: Regular bleach, as it reacts with chlorine and may worsen discoloration.

What NOT To Do When Removing Chlorine

  • Don’t use hot water or machines on swimsuits.

  • Don’t let chlorine-soaked clothes sit for long periods.

  • Don’t skip post-swim conditioning for hair and skin.

Proper care after swimming not only removes chlorine but also keeps your hair soft, skin hydrated, and bathing suits in top shape for seasons to come.

FAQs About Removing Chlorine

How do you remove chlorine from hair after swimming?

Rinse with lukewarm water, then wash using a clarifying or swimmer-specific shampoo. Follow with a nourishing conditioner to restore moisture.

Why is skin itchy after swimming?

Itching occurs because chlorine strips your skin of natural oils, causing dryness and irritation. Shower with a gentle cleanser, then apply a rich moisturizer immediately.

Does chlorine damage swimsuits?

Yes. Chlorine weakens fabric and causes fading over time. Rinse immediately, hand wash with cold water and a mild detergent, and always air dry.

How do I remove the chlorine smell from clothes and towels?

Soak them in a vinegar-water solution, then wash with baking soda in the rinse cycle. This neutralizes odors and protects fabric fibers.

Why should I neutralize chlorine instead of just rinsing it off?

Rinsing removes only surface residue. Neutralizing chlorine eliminates the chemical bonds that cause dryness, fading, and irritation, protecting your hair, skin, and clothes long-term.

Conclusion

Learning how to remove chlorine from bathing suits, hair, and skin is essential for anyone who loves to swim. By using the right techniques and ingredients, you can protect your body and clothes from chlorine’s harsh effects and enjoy your pool time with confidence and comfort.