Caring for and maintaining your wetsuit properly is important to prolong its life and ensure it performs well in the water. Here are some tips for taking care of your wetsuit:
- Rinse your wetsuit after each use: Rinse your wetsuit with fresh water after each use to remove salt, sand, and other debris that can damage the material.
- Hang your wetsuit to dry: Hang your wetsuit inside out in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight to prevent fading and damage to the neoprene.
- Avoid using a dryer: Do not use a dryer or expose your wetsuit to direct heat sources, as this can damage the neoprene and other materials.
- Store your wetsuit properly: Store your wetsuit flat or hanging on a wetsuit hanger to avoid creases and maintain its shape.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals: Do not use bleach or other harsh chemicals to clean your wetsuit, as this can damage the neoprene and other materials.
- Use a wetsuit shampoo: Use a wetsuit shampoo specifically designed for cleaning neoprene to remove dirt and odors from your wetsuit.
- Oil buttons and zippers every at least twice a year. A food grade silicone oil works well.
- And don’t allow petroleum products near the suit. And obviously, don’t iron the wetsuit!
- Patch small tears and holes: Use wetsuit cement or a patch kit to repair small tears or holes in your wetsuit before they become larger problems.
- Rotate between wetsuits: If you have multiple wetsuits, rotate between them to allow each wetsuit to dry completely between uses and prevent the buildup of odors and bacteria.
By following these tips, you can help prolong the life of your wetsuit and keep it in good condition for many surfing sessions to come.