The proper wetsuit care and maintenance is vitally essential to ensure your suits longevity and to keep it smelling clean and fresh. By following these straight forward guidelines, you can maximize the lifespan of your wetsuit and avoid becoming “that person” at the beach.
Follow these simple wetsuit care do’s and don’ts:
- Rinse your suit with cold water: After each use, thoroughly rinse your suit with cold water. This helps remove salt, sand, and other contaminants that can deteriorate the fabric and lead to unpleasant odors. By rinsing promptly, you prevent the accumulation of residue and maintain the wetsuit’s performance.
- Hang it up in a cool, dry place: After rinsing, hang your suit in a cool and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. Exposing your wetsuit to excessive heat, such as leaving it in a hot car, can damage the neoprene material, leading to diminished flexibility and durability. Optimal air circulation aids in drying the suit efficiently and prevents the growth of mold and mildew.
- Use a mild, non-detergent soap: When it’s time to give your wetsuit a thorough cleaning, opt for a mild, non-detergent soap specifically formulated for wetsuits, such as a wetsuit shampoo or something similar like Milton’s. Avoid using harsh chemicals or detergents, as they can degrade the neoprene and affect the wetsuit’s performance. Follow the product instructions for best results.
- Air dry your wetsuit: Instead of using a machine dryer, always air dry your suit by hanging it up. Hang it up in a well-ventilated area with proper support, such as a wetsuit hanger. This is to help maintain it’s proper shape. Direct exposure to heat sources or machine drying can cause the neoprene to shrink, warp, or lose elasticity. Always allow your suit to air dry completely before storing it to prevent the development of unpleasant odors and bacteria.
By following all of these basic wetsuit care steps, you can effectively preserve the quality and lifespan of your suit for years to come.
To further protect your wetsuit, here are some actions that you should avoid:
- Wearing sharp jewelry: Be very careful of wearing sharp or abrasive jewelry whilst you are putting on or taking off your suit. These kind of items can tear or puncture the neoprene, leading to irreparable damage.
- Improper storage: Try to avoid storing your wetsuit when it is in a creased or folded position for extended periods of time. The prolonged creasing can result in permanent creases in the neoprene material, which leads to compromising its flexibility and insulation properties. Instead, try storing your wetsuit flat or hung up to maintain its shape and integrity.
- Steer clear of rough surfaces: Try you best to refrain from climbing over rocks or abrasive surfaces when you are wearing your wetsuit. Even the smallest of cuts or nicks in the neoprene can cause water leakage, which reduces the effectiveness of the wetsuit in providing insulation and protection against the cold.
- Mind your nails: If you have got long or sharp nails, be extra cautious when you are pulling on your wetsuit. Mishandling can lead to accidental tears or punctures of the neoprene, rendering your wetsuit less effective in retaining its warmth and buoyancy.
- Urinating in your wetsuit: While it may be very tempting, try your utmost to avoid urinating in your wetsuit. Beside from the hygiene concerns, urine can contribute to very unpleasant smells that are extremely difficult to eliminate later on. Regular rinsing of your wetsuit after each and every use helps prevent odor buildup and maintains freshness.
By sticking to these wetsuit care guidelines and avoiding the damaging practices, you can optimize it’s performance, durability, and the longevity of your wetsuit. Enjoy your adventures out in the water with confidence, knowing your wetsuit is in top-notch condition.
Let us know your thoughts and what your wetsuit care routine is like by leaving us a comment, dropping us an email or giving us a call. We’d love to hear from you.
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