A bathing cap, often called a swim cap, is a snug-fitting cap made of latex or silicone that keeps your hair dry and protected from chlorine while you swim. Some caps are made of lycra and polyester; these will not keep your hair dry, but will keep it out of your face while you are in the pool. If you swim competitively, you might be required to wear a bathing cap. If you have long hair, putting on the swim cap can be tricky.
Step 1
Hold the swim cap so that the longer edge is perpendicular to your forehead. Grip the cap by each side and pull it open. If you have long hair, smooth it behind your ears to keep it at the back of your head.
Step 2
Point your head down and slip the front edge of the bathing cap onto your forehead. Pull back on the cap to open it wider.
Step 3
Ease the sides and back of the cap over the sides and back of your head. If you have short hair, pull down on each edge of the cap to create a good seal around your hairline.
Step 4
Gather the back of your long hair with one hand while holding the back of the cap open with the other hand. Push the back of your hair up under the back of the swim cap as evenly as possible to ensure a good seal, recommends SimplySwim.com.
Step 5
Tuck in any loose ends of hair that are sticking out around the sides or back of the bathing cap.
Tips and Warnings
- TriathaNewbie.com suggests asking a friend for help if you have long hair. Have your friend hold the cap open while you push all of your hair into it. Do not put your long hair in a ponytail or bun, advises SimplySwim.com. This can create a point in your bathing cap, making it more difficult to get a good seal. Since no bathing cap is completely waterproof, wash and condition your hair after leaving the pool to avoid dryness and discoloration from the chlorine.
- If you are allergic to latex, avoid latex swim caps. If you develop a rash or swelling around your ears, forehead or the back of your neck, do not use your latex swim cap until you can have the rash evaluated by a doctor, recommends SimplySwim.com.
Things You'll Need
- Bathing cap
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