Your tennis skirt is a wardrobe MVP—but even the best outfits need TLC. With the right care, your skirt can stay vibrant and functional for seasons to come.
This guide shares step-by-step care instructions to keep your tennis skirt looking new, plus tips for washing, drying, and storage. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, these simple habits will extend the life of your favorite skirt.

Why Proper Care Matters
A great tennis skirt is more than just fabric—it’s your secret weapon on the court. But even high-quality skirts need love to stay in top condition. Here’s why caring for your skirt is worth the effort:
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Prolong Fabric Lifespan:
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Avoid shrinkage, fading, or pilling by washing gently.
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Proper care keeps moisture-wicking polyester or bamboo fabric soft and durable.
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Maintain Performance Features:
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Moisture-wicking fabric stays effective when fibers aren’t damaged.
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UV protection in skirts like the Lilian 13.5” Skirt won’t degrade with proper care.
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Save Money:
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Replace worn-out skirts less often by preserving their quality.
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A well-maintained skirt looks new and lasts longer—perfect for resale or gifting.
How to Wash Your Tennis Skirt
Follow these simple steps to keep your skirt fresh and functional:
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Turn Inside Out:
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Protect prints, designs, and delicate fabrics from snagging in the wash.
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Use Cold Water:
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Cold water prevents shrinkage and color bleeding.
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Bonus: It saves energy!
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Gentle Detergent:
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Avoid harsh chemicals that weaken fabric.
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Look for detergents labeled “sportswear-safe” or “gentle.”
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Skip Fabric Softener:
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Fabric softeners coat fibers, reducing breathability and moisture-wicking.
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Opt for a vinegar rinse (1:1 ratio) to neutralize odors instead.
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Air-Dry Flat:
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Lay your skirt flat on a clean towel or drying rack to avoid wrinkles.
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Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colors.
Pro Tip: Treat stains immediately with cold water and mild soap. For stubborn odors, add 1 tsp baking soda to your wash cycle.
Drying & Storage Tips
Drying:
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Air-Dry Flat: Lay your skirt on a clean, dry towel or drying rack. Avoid hanging it, as this can stretch out the fabric.
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Skip the Dryer: High heat damages moisture-wicking fibers and elastic waistbands.
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Shade Is Key: Direct sunlight causes colors to fade—opt for a shaded spot indoors.
Storage:
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Fold Neatly: Crease along natural seams to avoid wrinkles. For skorts, fold built-in shorts inward.
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Use Slim Hangers: If hanging, choose padded hangers to prevent shoulder bumps.
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Cool & Dry: Store in a closet away from humidity or direct heat. Avoid plastic bins, which trap moisture.
Pro Tip: For travel, roll your skirt like a yoga mat to save space and minimize wrinkles.
Fabric-Specific Care Instructions
Polyester Blends (e.g., Celine Side Zip Skirt):
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Machine-Washable: Use cold water and a gentle cycle.
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Avoid High Heat: Skip the dryer—heat melts polyester fibers.
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Iron Low: If needed, use a cool setting (no steam).
Bamboo (e.g., Lilian 13.5” Skirt):
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Hand-Wash Preferred: Bamboo is delicate—wash in cold water with mild soap.
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Air-Dry Only: Hang or lay flat to retain softness and shape.
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No Bleach: Harsh chemicals weaken bamboo fibers.
Recycled Materials:
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Follow Care Tags: Some recycled fabrics require delicate cycles or short spin times.
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Spot-Clean: Treat minor stains instead of washing the entire skirt.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Stains:
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Act Fast: Blot (don’t rub) spills with cold water and mild soap.
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Tough Stains: Use a sport-specific stain remover (e.g., Nikwax Tech Wash).
Odor:
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Baking Soda Boost: Add 1 tsp to your wash cycle to neutralize smells.
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Vinegar Rinse: A cup of white vinegar in the rinse cycle eliminates lingering odors.
Pilling:
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Fabric Shaver: Gently remove pills on low settings (test on a small area first).
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Wash Inside-Out: Prevent friction between fabrics during future washes.
Shrinkage:
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Cold Water + Air-Dry: Heat is the #1 cause of shrinkage—stick to cold cycles.
How to Clean a Tennis Skirt
Summary:
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Wash: Turn inside-out, use cold water and gentle detergent. Skip fabric softener.
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Dry: Air-dry flat on a clean surface. Avoid direct sunlight.
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Store: Fold neatly or hang on a slim hanger. Keep in a cool, dry place.
FAQs About Tennis Skirt Care
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Q: Can I dry-clean my tennis skirt?
A: Most skirts are machine-washable. Dry-cleaning is unnecessary and costly—always check the care tag first. -
Q: How often should I wash my skirt?
A: Wash after 2–3 wears, or sooner if sweaty. Over-washing can wear out fabric faster. -
Q: Can I iron my skirt?
A: Use low heat on polyester skirts (e.g., Emma 13.5” Skirt). Avoid ironing bamboo or mesh fabrics, as heat damages them.
Extend Your Skirt’s Lifespan with NPHORM NYC
At NPHORM NYC, we design skirts that stand the test of time. Our Emma 13.5” Tennis Skirt uses durable, moisture-wicking polyester that resists pilling and fading. By following these care tips—like washing in cold water and air-drying—you’ll keep your skirt looking new for years.
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