How to Clean, Dry & Store Your Wetsuit Properly
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Time to read 2 min
Your wetsuit is more than just gear—it's your second skin in the water. Whether you're surfing, swimming, or wild dipping, taking good care of your wetsuit will keep it performing better, lasting longer, and smelling fresher (trust us, your mates will thank you). Here's how to clean, dry and store your wetsuit properly, so it's always ready for the next session.
1. Use a Changing Mat
Before you even take your wetsuit off, stand on a changing mat or bucket. It keeps sand and dirt off your wetsuit and stops you grinding grit into it while changing. Plus, it makes packing up quicker and cleaner.
Tip: A changing bucket doubles as a rinse tub and storage for wet gear—win-win.
2. Rinse It Right After Every Use
Salt, sand, and suncream can all break down the neoprene over time. After every session, rinse your wetsuit thoroughly with fresh, cold water. Pay attention to the cuffs, zips and seams where grime tends to hide.
Tip: If you're near a beach shower or hose, rinse it there and then before heading home.
3. Use a Wetsuit Cleaner Occasionally
Every few weeks (or more often if you’re in the water a lot), give your wetsuit a deeper clean using a wetsuit-specific shampoo. This helps remove salt, bacteria, and any stubborn odours.
What to do:
- Fill a tub or sink with cool water
- Add the cleaner as directed
- Soak your wetsuit for 10-15 mins
- Gently agitate the water and then rinse thoroughly
Never use hot water, bleach, or harsh detergents—they can wreck the neoprene.
4. Dry It the Right Way
Wetsuits don’t like heat or sunlight. To avoid damaging the fabric:
Do:
- Hang your wetsuit inside out first
- Use a wide hanger or fold over a thick rail (no wire hangers)
- Let it drip dry in a shaded, ventilated area
Don’t:
- Leave it in direct sun
- Use a tumble dryer
- Hang it by the shoulders when it's heavy and wet (this can stretch it out)
Once the inside is dry, flip it the right way to finish the job.
5. Store It Smart
If you're not using your wetsuit for a while, store it properly to keep the shape and protect the neoprene.
- Make sure it's 100% dry before storing
- Hang it on a wetsuit hanger, or gently fold it if space is tight
- Keep it in a cool, dry place
- Avoid sharp folds, heaters, or any direct sunlight
A wetsuit bag or breathable cover is a good shout if you're storing it long-term.
Bonus Tip: Zip Maintenance
Give your zips a little love now and then. A rinse with fresh water and the occasional application of zip care or silicone can keep them smooth and salt-free.
In Summary:
Use a changing mat before you take it off
Rinse after every use
Deep clean occasionally with wetsuit shampoo
Dry inside out, out of the sun
Store dry, cool and flat or on a wide hanger
Take care of your wetsuit, and it'll take care of you—through cold dawn surfs, summer beach breaks, and everything in between.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can i tumble dry my suit?
you should never tumble dry a wetsuit. The heat from a dryer can damage and melt the neoprene material, leading to permanent damage and a shorter lifespan for the wetsuit.
Should i leave it in the sun ?
you should not leave your wetsuit in direct sunlight. Exposure to UV rays can damage the neoprene, causing it to deteriorate and lose flexibility over time. Instead, dry your wetsuit in a cool, shaded area
