Caring for your wetsuit: a complete guide
Your wetsuit is your best friend. It protects you from the cold, allows you to surf longer, and provides unparalleled comfort in the waves. But, like any lasting relationship, it needs attention and care.
Did you know that a well-maintained wetsuit can last twice as long? Imagine the savings and years of extra enjoyment you'll get from it!
In this article, discover the ultimate secrets to keeping your wetsuit in perfect condition. Follow our simple tips and enjoy your passion without worrying about premature wear and tear.
So, ready to give your wetsuit the love it deserves? Let's go!
Introduction: Why maintain your wetsuit?
Neoprene is a technical material used in many pieces of equipment: wetsuits, diving boots, gloves, etc. Its insulating properties allow you to stay warm even in very cold water.
The problem is that neoprene is sensitive to certain factors that will cause it to wear out prematurely: UV rays, heat, chemicals, etc. Not to mention the salt in seawater, which acts as an abrasive.
The result: Without proper maintenance, your neoprene wetsuit can deteriorate very quickly. As it wears out, your wetsuit loses its elasticity and insulating properties. Not to mention the bacteria that can build up.
Fortunately, you can maximize the lifespan of your equipment with a few simple steps. Extend the life of your equipment, forget about bad odors.
Discover in this article the ultimate guide to neoprene care.
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Rinse thoroughly with clean water
The first rule after each session is to thoroughly rinse your wetsuit or neoprene accessory. Salt, sand, sunscreen... All these impurities must be removed quickly.
- Use cold fresh water
- Remember to turn the suit inside out to wash the inside as well.
- Pay attention to closures, seams and joints
A pressurized jet (garden shower type) is ideal for dislodging all ingrained dirt.
You can also use a large basin of clear water for rinsing.
This rinse helps maintain the waterproofness and elasticity of your neoprene by preventing it from becoming encrusted with residue.
Pro tips: how to wash your wetsuit outdoors and indoors
When outdoors , use a garden hose with a powerful jet to dislodge all dirt. Rinse your wetsuit in a shaded area to prevent the neoprene from drying too quickly. Then, hang it on a wide hanger to air dry.
Indoors , in your bathroom, opt for a rinse in a bathtub or shower with fresh, cold water. Scrub dirty areas, such as zippers and seams, with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue. Finally, hang the suit on a wide hanger in a well-ventilated area to air dry.
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Dry in the shade
Once rinsed, it is essential to dry your neoprene properly. Enemies to absolutely avoid:
- Sun drying : UV rays damage the fibers
- Heat : it dries out and cracks the neoprene
Ideal drying is done at room temperature, in the shade , avoiding any stretching or deformation.
Follow these steps:
- Turn the suit inside out to start from the inside
- Hang by the waist on a wide support or a specific hanger.
- Ventilating it with a fan will increase the drying speed
Make sure both sides are completely dry before storing your neoprene.
Be careful not to hang your wet suit on a hanger at shoulder level. You risk deforming them under the weight of the water. The neoprene will deform and you risk damaging your wetsuit.
- Use a special disinfectant and stain remover
Rinsing is crucial, but it's not enough . Residues from perspiration, sunscreen, salt, and sand can become embedded in the fabric of your wetsuit. These invisible enemies can cause persistent odors, promote neoprene degradation, and ultimately shorten the lifespan of your equipment.
The solution? Regular deep cleaning with a special neoprene disinfectant and stain remover.
Why use a special product?
- Conventional household products can be too aggressive and damage neoprene.
- Special neoprene disinfectants and stain removers are formulated to eliminate bacteria, mold, and odors without damaging the material.
- They can also help dissolve salt and sand, which can build up in the fibers and weaken the suit.
How to use a special disinfectant and stain remover?
- Dilute the product according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Soak your suit in the solution for 30 minutes.
- Scrub particularly dirty areas with a soft brush.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Air dry your wetsuit in the shade.
Additional tips:
- Rinse your wetsuit after each use , even if you don't clean it thoroughly.
- Inspect your wetsuit regularly for signs of wear and tear.
- If you use your wetsuit in cold water , clean it more often.
- Never use harsh chemicals like bleach or gasoline to clean your suit.
By following these tips and using a special neoprene disinfectant and stain remover, you will maximize the lifespan of your wetsuit and enjoy your aquatic sessions with complete confidence!
Which wetsuit disinfectant should I choose?
- Bacterless Surf: based on eucalyptus essential oils
- Piss Off 250 Combi Cleaner
- Mystic Wetsuit Cleaner
- You can find them in most surf shops and on Amazon
The instructions are simple:
- Mix the product in 5 liters of cold water
- Soak the suit for 30 min
- Rub the stains gently
- Rinse thoroughly
Repeat this deep wash once a month.
- No washing machine, iron or dryer!
Many websites recommend washing wetsuits in the washing machine. Be careful: this is a bad idea! Here's why you should avoid this method:
- Mechanical aggression damages the seams
- The drum weakens and stretches the fibers
- Detergents are too corrosive for neoprene
- Machine drying (tumble drying) or ironing will completely damage your suit.
- Storage tips
Even when used occasionally, a neoprene suit must be stored carefully between outings.
- Do not compress it : avoid storing it in an airtight bag
- Room temperature : no humid or overheated rooms
- Protected from the sun : even through a window!
For a wetsuit, prefer vertical storage on a wide Monsta C-type hanger .
You can also roll it up without folding it for flat storage.
Accessories for drying your wetsuit
C-monsta offers sustainable wetsuit drying hangers made from recycled materials, designed to extend the life of your gear while saving space, time, and money.
The Logic Surf Wetsuit Dryer
Forget your hair dryer to dry your wetsuit.
Designed for fast drying in 20 minutes thanks to its powerful 6,000 liters per minute air circulation system, intelligent heat control and compact size that is easy to store. Its price is €199.
The ultimate in winter surfing with a dry suit .
Conclusion
By following these few neoprene care tips, you will considerably extend the life of your wetsuit.
Tips for a successful interview:
- Rinse after each use
- Dry at room temperature, in the shade
- Regular deep cleaning with specific disinfectant
- Store flat, without compression, at room temperature
- No washing machine
With these few tips, the maintenance of your neoprene suit
Summary in a few key points:
Our tips for a wetsuit that lasts longer:
After each session:
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Dry in the shade at room temperature.
Regularly :
- Clean thoroughly with a special neoprene disinfectant.
- Do not use a washing machine, dryer or iron.
For storage:
- Store flat or hanging, without compression.
- Avoid humid, hot and sunny places.
By following these simple tips, you will maximize the lifespan of your wetsuit and fully enjoy your sea trips!
Useful resources
- Maintaining and extending the life of a surfboard
- Maintaining your surf poncho
- The Complete Guide to Getting Started with Surfing
Complete FAQ for maintaining your wetsuit
How to properly maintain your neoprene wetsuit?
Follow these steps after each session:
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Leave to dry in the shade at room temperature.
- Clean thoroughly regularly with a special neoprene disinfectant product.
Which cleaning soap for neoprene wetsuits?
Do not use regular soap, as it can damage neoprene. Choose a mild soap or a special neoprene disinfectant .
How to disinfect a wetsuit?
Dilute a special neoprene disinfectant in water and let your wetsuit soak for 30 minutes. Then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
How to store a wetsuit?
A: The best way to store a wetsuit is to hang it on a wide hanger by the waist. Avoid hanging your wetsuit by the shoulders. Store your wetsuit in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Also, avoid folding or compressing it.
All our advice applies to neoprene wetsuits for surfing, longe côte , triathlon , canyoning , kitesurfing , diving and all water sports.
This article is part of our comprehensive guide to surfing for beginners. Discover our other resources to delve deeper into every aspect of your newfound passion.
