How to Dry a Kids Wetsuit
Why Proper Drying Matters for Kids Wetsuits
A kids wetsuit is an investment in water fun, whether your child surfs, swims, or plays in the ocean. But improper drying can shorten its lifespan, trap odors, and damage the neoprene material. Learning how to dry a kids wetsuit correctly takes just a few minutes and protects your gear from mildew, salt damage, and stretching. The good news is that drying a kids wetsuit isn't complicated, and you don't need special equipment. With the right technique and a bit of patience, your child's wetsuit will stay fresh, flexible, and ready for the next water adventure. We'll walk you through everything you need to know to keep that suit in top shape.
5 Steps to Dry a Kids Wetsuit Properly
Rinse immediately after use. Spray the wetsuit with fresh water to remove salt, chlorine, and sand. Pay special attention to seams and cuffs where debris hides. This step prevents salt from drying on the neoprene and damaging the material over time.
Gently squeeze out excess water. Don't wring or twist the wetsuit, as this stresses the seams and neoprene. Instead, hold it vertically and press water out with your hands. Be gentle with the fabric to avoid stretching or tearing delicate areas.
Hang on a wide hanger or drying rack. Use a padded hanger or dedicated wetsuit rack to prevent shoulder marks and stretching. Avoid thin wire hangers that dig into the material. Proper support keeps the suit's shape intact while it dries.
Air dry in a cool, shaded location. Direct sunlight and heat damage neoprene and cause fading. Choose a well-ventilated spot indoors or in shade outdoors. Avoid radiators, dryers, and hot areas. Drying takes 24 to 48 hours depending on humidity and thickness.
Store in a cool, dry place once fully dry. Keep the wetsuit away from direct sunlight and heat sources. A closet or storage bag works well. Make sure it's completely dry before storing to prevent mold and mildew growth inside the material.
Best Practices for Drying a Kids Wetsuit
The key to extending your kids wetsuit's life is treating it gently throughout the drying process. Never machine wash or machine dry a wetsuit, even on delicate settings. The agitation and heat destroy the neoprene and break down seams. Hand rinsing takes two minutes and works far better. If your child's suit smells funky after drying, soak it briefly in a mixture of water and white vinegar before rinsing again. This neutralizes odors without chemicals. For kids who use wetsuits frequently, consider investing in a dedicated wetsuit drying rack or drying accessories to speed up the process and keep everything organized. Proper ventilation matters more than speed, so resist the urge to speed-dry with heat. A well-maintained kids wetsuit can last several seasons, making proper drying a worthwhile habit.
Common Questions About Drying Kids Wetsuits
Can I use a hair dryer to speed up drying a kids wetsuit?
No, avoid heat entirely when drying a kids wetsuit. Hair dryers, radiators, and direct sunlight damage neoprene by breaking down the material and causing shrinkage. Air drying in a cool, shaded spot is the safest method. It takes longer but preserves the suit's integrity and keeps it wearable for years.
How long does it take to dry a kids wetsuit?
A kids wetsuit typically takes 24 to 48 hours to dry completely, depending on thickness, humidity, and air circulation. Thinner suits dry faster than thicker ones. Hanging it in a well-ventilated area indoors speeds things up compared to outdoor drying. Be patient and resist the urge to use heat.
Should I rinse my child's wetsuit after every use?
Yes, rinsing after every use removes salt, chlorine, and sand that degrade neoprene over time. Fresh water rinses are quick and easy, taking just a minute or two. This simple step dramatically extends the life of your kids wetsuit and keeps it smelling fresh.
What's the best way to store a dried kids wetsuit?
Store the dried wetsuit in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. A closet, storage bag, or shelf works well. Make sure it's completely dry before storage to prevent mold and mildew. Avoid folding it tightly for long periods, as this can create permanent creases.
Can I hang a kids wetsuit on a regular clothes hanger?
Regular wire hangers can leave marks and stretch the neoprene. Use a padded hanger, wide wooden hanger, or a dedicated wetsuit rack instead. These distribute weight evenly and prevent shoulder marks. Proper support keeps the suit's shape intact during the drying process.
What should I do if my kids wetsuit smells bad after drying?
Soak the suit in a mixture of cool water and white vinegar for 15 to 30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with fresh water. Hang it to air dry again. This neutralizes odors naturally without harsh chemicals. Ensure it's completely dry before storing to prevent future smell issues.
Make Drying Easier with the Right Tools
Stop struggling with makeshift drying setups. The Drip Suit is designed specifically to dry wetsuits efficiently while protecting your gear. With integrated hooks for booties and gloves, easy-hang design, and universal fit, it transforms drying from a chore into a breeze. Your kids wetsuit deserves better than being draped over a chair.
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