How to Look after Your Wetsuit?
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Short on time? read our do's and dont's
Our top 5 Do’s:
- Rinse your wetsuit with fresh water after every use to remove salt and sand.
- Hang your wetsuit up to dry in a cool, shaded area.
- Use a wetsuit shampoo to clean your wetsuit every few uses.
- Store your wetsuit in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Handle your wetsuit gently to avoid stretching or tearing the neoprene.
Our top 5 dont’s:
- Don’t machine wash your wetsuit, as it can damage the neoprene and seams.
- Don’t dry your wetsuit in direct sunlight, as it can cause neoprene to deteriorate.
- Don’t store your wetsuit in a hot car or other warm area, as heat can damage neoprene.
- Don’t use regular detergents or fabric softeners to clean your wetsuit, as they can strip the neoprene of its oils.
- Don’t use sharp objects such as rocks, shells, or dive knives near your wetsuit, as they can puncture or tear the neoprene.
How to Look After Your Wetsuit: Tips and Tricks for Proper Care
If you’re a water sports enthusiast, you know that a wetsuit is an essential piece of equipment. Whether you’re surfing, diving, or just enjoying a day at the beach, a wetsuit keeps you warm and protected from the elements. But owning a wetsuit also means taking care of it to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. In this article, we’ll provide you with tips and tricks on how to look after your wetsuit so that it lasts longer and performs better.
How to Look After Your Wetsuit: Proper Care for Optimal Performance
Wetsuits are made of neoprene, a synthetic rubber that is designed to stretch and insulate. But neoprene can be sensitive to certain elements, so it’s important to take proper care of your wetsuit. Here are some tips on how to look after your wetsuit:
Rinse Your Wetsuit After Every Use
After each use, rinse your wetsuit thoroughly with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and other debris. Salt can dry out and damage neoprene, while sand can create tiny tears in the material. Rinse your wetsuit inside and out, paying special attention to the zippers and seams.
Hang Your Wetsuit to Dry
Hang your wetsuit up to dry in a cool, shaded area. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause neoprene to deteriorate and lose elasticity. Hang your wetsuit inside out to allow the inside to dry thoroughly. If possible, hang your wetsuit on a curved hanger to prevent creases and stretching.
Store Your Wetsuit Properly
When not in use, store your wetsuit in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Do not store it in a hot car or other warm area, as heat can damage neoprene. Fold your wetsuit neatly, or roll it up from the legs to the neck to prevent creases.
Avoid Contact with Sharp Objects
Neoprene is susceptible to punctures and tears, so avoid contact with sharp objects such as rocks, shells, and dive knives. When putting on or taking off your wetsuit, be gentle to avoid stretching or tearing the material.
Use Wetsuit Shampoo
To keep your wetsuit clean and smelling fresh, use a wetsuit shampoo to wash it every few uses. Wetsuit shampoos are designed to clean neoprene without damaging it. Avoid using regular detergents or fabric softeners, as they can damage the neoprene and strip it of its oils.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are a few FAQs for looking after your wetsuit properly.
Q: How often should I wash my wetsuit with shampoo?
A: It’s recommended to wash your wetsuit with shampoo every three to five uses, depending on how dirty it gets.
Q: Can I machine wash my wetsuit?
A: No, machine washing can damage the neoprene and the seams. Always hand wash your wetsuit and hang it up to dry.
Q: How can I remove odors from my wetsuit?
A: To remove odors, soak your wetsuit in a solution of water and white vinegar for about an hour before washing it with wetsuit shampoo.
Q: Can I repair a tear in my wetsuit?
A: Yes, small tears can be repaired with neoprene glue or patches. Larger tears may require professional repair.
Q: How long does a wetsuit last?
A: With proper care, a wetsuit can last for several years.
Conclusion
In conclusion, taking care of your wetsuit properly is crucial in extending its lifespan and ensuring optimal performance. By following the do’s and don’ts listed above and incorporating good habits such as rinsing, drying, and storing your wetsuit properly, you can keep it in great condition for many uses to come. Remember to always handle your wetsuit with care and to avoid exposing it to harsh elements such as direct sunlight and extreme heat. By following these simple steps, you can make the most out of your wetsuit investment and enjoy many more safe and comfortable water activities.
