Wetsuit Storage Care Tips

Ever wondered how to extend the lifespan of your beloved wetsuit? Well, the key lies in proper care and storage. As a passionate surfer or diver, your wetsuit is your second skin when you’re in the water. It deserves your attention and care to ensure it stays in top condition for as long as possible. Neglecting your wetsuit could lead to premature wear and tear, reducing its functionality and necessitating a replacement sooner than you’d like. So, let’s dive into the world of wetsuit care and storage, shall we?

Understanding Your Wetsuit’s Material

Wetsuits are primarily made from neoprene, a type of synthetic rubber that provides excellent insulation against the cold. This material is flexible, durable, and buoyant – perfect for water sports. However, while neoprene is robust, it’s not invincible. It requires specific care to maintain its elasticity and insulating properties. So, it’s important to understand how to care for this unique material to get the most out of your wetsuit.

Recognizing the Enemies of Your Wetsuit

You might be surprised to learn that some of the greatest threats to your wetsuit are things you encounter regularly. Sunlight, for instance, can cause your wetsuit to fade and lose its elasticity over time. Heat, too, can damage the neoprene material, making it brittle and susceptible to tears. Saltwater is another enemy, as it can dry out the material and cause it to become stiff. So, the next time you’re at the beach, remember, it’s not just you who needs protection from these elements – your wetsuit does too!

Detailed Wetsuit Cleaning Steps

Ever wondered how to clean a wetsuit properly? It’s not as complicated as you might think, and a little effort can go a long way in extending the life of your wetsuit. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you.

Rinsing Your Wetsuit

It’s simple, but vital: rinse your wetsuit with fresh water immediately after use. Why is this so important, you ask? Saltwater and chlorine can degrade the neoprene material of your wetsuit over time. So, a quick rinse can help avoid such damage. Just be sure to use cold or lukewarm water, as hot water can cause the suit to lose its flexibility.

Also, don’t forget to rinse the inside of your wetsuit. It’s equally exposed to harmful elements like salt, sunblock, and body oils.

Washing Your Wetsuit

Now that you’ve rinsed your wetsuit, it’s time to give it a proper wash. But wait, not all soaps are wetsuit-friendly. So, what should you use?

Choose a cleaner specifically designed for wetsuits or mild soap. Stay clear of detergents and other harsh cleaners, as they can damage the suit’s material. Also, remember to wash your wetsuit by hand. Washing machines and dryers can cause damage too!

Fill a tub with cold water, add your chosen cleaner, and immerse your wetsuit in it. Let it soak for 15-20 minutes, then gently knead the material to clean it. Be sure to pay extra attention to areas like the armpits and knees, which can collect more dirt. After washing, rinse the suit thoroughly to remove all soap.

Drying Your Wetsuit

So, your wetsuit is clean now. But how do you dry it without causing damage? The key is to air dry it. Here’s how.

Firstly, never wring out your wetsuit to remove water. This can stretch the material. Instead, roll the suit gently to squeeze out excess water. Then, hang it up to dry, but be sure to avoid direct sunlight, which can degrade the material over time.

Use a thick, padded hanger rather than a thin wire one to avoid stretching the shoulders of your wetsuit. Also, remember to hang it in half at the waist, rather than from the shoulders. This helps maintain the shape of the suit.

Lastly, always dry your wetsuit in a well-ventilated area. It helps speed up the drying process and prevents the growth of mold or mildew. Remember, patience is key here. It may take a while for your suit to dry completely, but it’s worth the wait to keep it in good condition.

Tips for Storing Your Wetsuit

Ever wondered how to maximize the lifespan of your wetsuit? The answer lies in the storage. Just as you take care of your favorite pair of shoes or your cherished collection of books, your wetsuit deserves the same level of attention. But how exactly should you store your wetsuit? Let’s find out!

Firstly, consider the environment. Your wetsuit prefers a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat can degrade the material, while sunlight can cause it to fade. Humidity? Not a friend either, as it can encourage mold growth.

Secondly, the positioning of the wetsuit matters too. Hanging it up is a good idea, but be careful not to use a wire hanger as it can cause the wetsuit to deform. Instead, use a thick, wide hanger to distribute the weight evenly. Folding the wetsuit is another option, but make sure to avoid sharp folds that could cause creases.

Periodic Wetsuit Maintenance

Now that you know how to store your wetsuit, is that all there is to it? Not quite! Regular checks and maintenance are crucial to ensure your wetsuit remains in tip-top condition. What should you look out for?

Keep an eye out for small tears or holes. These can be fixed easily with a wetsuit repair kit if caught early. Also, check for areas where the material might be thinning. If the material looks excessively worn or thin, it might be time to consider a replacement.

Don’t forget to inspect the zippers too. They should move smoothly and not catch on the material. A quick application of zipper lubricant can keep them functioning well.

Lastly, remember the saying, “prevention is better than cure”? It applies to your wetsuit too! Regular cleaning, proper drying, and optimal storage conditions can prevent many issues from cropping up in the first place!

Choosing the Right Wetsuit Storage Accessories

So, you’ve cleaned and dried your wetsuit, and now you’re ready to store it. But wait, are you just going to throw it in the back of your closet? Absolutely not! Using the right wetsuit storage accessories can make a huge difference in the longevity of your gear. Let’s explore some of them:

• Wetsuit Hangers: These specially designed hangers distribute weight evenly across the shoulders of your wetsuit, preventing it from stretching out of shape. Trust us; your suit will thank you!
• Storage Bags: A wetsuit storage bag protects your suit from dust and sunlight while providing a convenient way to transport it. Look for one with ventilation to prevent mold and mildew.
• Wetsuit Racks: If you have multiple wetsuits, a rack can be a real space-saver. Keep your suits organized and easy to access.
• Wetsuit Dryer: If you’re a frequent surfer, a wetsuit dryer can be a game-changer. It dries your suit quickly and thoroughly, preventing odors and prolonging its life.

Additional Tips and Tricks

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s sprinkle in a few extra tips and tricks that can make wetsuit care and storage even more effective. Did you know that you should avoid storing your wetsuit in a car trunk or garage? These areas can become incredibly hot, which can damage the neoprene material. It’s also a good idea to rotate your wetsuits if you have more than one. This gives each suit a chance to fully dry and rest between uses.

Another tip? Never fold your wetsuit. It’s tempting, especially when traveling, but folding can cause creases that damage the neoprene. Instead, roll your suit loosely to avoid creasing.

The Impact of Proper Wetsuit Care and Storage

So, why go through all this trouble? Well, proper wetsuit care and storage can significantly extend the life of your suit, saving you money in the long run. Plus, a well-maintained wetsuit performs better, keeping you warmer and more comfortable in the water.

Remember, your wetsuit is an investment. With just a little time and effort, you can ensure it lasts for many seasons to come. And isn’t that worth it?