Proper wetsuit care is crucial for extending its lifespan and maintaining its performance, ensuring your investment lasts for many adventures.
Caring for your wetsuit doesn't require complex procedures, but rather a consistent application of simple, yet vital, practices. Following these guidelines will protect the neoprene material from degradation and keep your wetsuit flexible and functional.
Wetsuit Care: Do's and Don'ts
To simplify wetsuit maintenance, here's a quick overview of key actions to take and practices to avoid:
| Do's | Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Rinse your wetsuit after use | Don't use chemicals (harsh soaps, detergents) |
| Dry in the shade or indoors | Don't dry your wetsuit in direct sunlight |
| Hang on a wide hanger | Don't machine wash, iron, or tumble dry your wetsuit |
Immediate Post-Use Cleaning
The most important step after any water activity is to clean your wetsuit properly.
- Rinse your wetsuit after use thoroughly with fresh, cool water. This step is essential to remove salt, chlorine, sand, and other debris that can degrade the neoprene and zipper over time. A quick rinse helps prevent odors and material breakdown.
Proper Drying Techniques
How you dry your wetsuit significantly impacts its longevity and the integrity of the neoprene.
- Don't dry your wetsuit in direct sunlight. Direct exposure to sunlight can cause ozone and UV damage to the neoprene, leading to the material becoming brittle, losing its flexibility, and cracking prematurely.
- Instead, hang your wetsuit in a shaded area, indoors, or in a well-ventilated space. Use a wide hanger, ideally one designed for wetsuits, to prevent creases or stretching in the shoulders. Ensure both the inside and outside dry completely before storing.
What to Strictly Avoid
Certain practices can severely damage your wetsuit's neoprene and stitching, drastically shortening its life.
- Don't use chemicals: Harsh soaps, detergents, bleach, or any strong cleaning agents can strip away the protective layers of the neoprene and break down its delicate structure. Stick to fresh water or specialized wetsuit cleaners if necessary.
- Don't machine wash, iron or tumble dry your wetsuit: These methods are extremely detrimental.
- Machine washing can cause the wetsuit to stretch, tear, or damage the seams and glue.
- Ironing will melt the neoprene, making it unusable.
- Tumble drying applies high heat, which will shrink and crack the neoprene, destroying its insulating properties and flexibility. Always air dry your wetsuit.
Adhering to these simple care instructions will ensure your wetsuit remains in top condition, ready for your next adventure. For more general guidelines on gear maintenance, you might find information on outdoor gear care helpful.
