How to Prevent Wetsuit from Smelling
Why Wetsuits Smell and How to Stop It
Wetsuit odor happens because bacteria and organic matter thrive in warm, damp environments. When you wear a wetsuit, sweat, salt water, and dead skin cells get trapped in the neoprene, creating the perfect breeding ground for stink. The good news is that preventing wetsuit from smelling is straightforward once you know what causes it. Most of the problem comes down to how you rinse, dry, and store your gear. With a few simple habits, you can keep your wetsuit fresh and extend its lifespan at the same time. The key is acting fast after each session, before bacteria has a chance to multiply.
5 Essential Steps to Prevent Wetsuit from Smelling
Rinse immediately after use. Fresh water flushes out salt, sweat, and bacteria before they settle into the neoprene. Use a hose or shower and get water inside the suit as well as outside. Don't skip this step, even if you're tired. It's the single most important thing you can do to prevent wetsuit from smelling.
Hang to dry completely. Moisture trapped inside leads straight to odor. Hang your wetsuit inside-out in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Use a proper wetsuit hanger to avoid stretching. Let it dry for at least 24 hours before storing. Partial drying guarantees mildew and funk.
Soak in white vinegar occasionally. Vinegar kills odor-causing bacteria without damaging neoprene. Mix one part white vinegar with five parts fresh water, soak your wetsuit for 30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with fresh water and hang to dry. Do this monthly or whenever smell starts creeping back.
Store in a cool, dry place. Never roll up a damp wetsuit or store it in a hot car. Keep it in a closet or cabinet where air can circulate. Make sure it's completely dry first. A plastic bag is your enemy here, so avoid sealed storage containers unless your suit is bone-dry.
Use baking soda for stubborn smells. Sprinkle baking soda inside your dried wetsuit and let it sit overnight to absorb odors. Shake it out thoroughly the next morning. This works as a quick refresh between deeper cleanings and costs almost nothing.
Deep Cleaning Methods That Actually Work
Sometimes basic rinsing and drying aren't enough, especially if your wetsuit has been neglected or stored improperly. For stubborn odors, try soaking your suit in a mixture of fresh water and specialized wetsuit shampoo. These products are designed to break down organic buildup without harming neoprene. Soak for 15 to 20 minutes, gently agitate the water, then rinse multiple times until the water runs clear.
Another effective method is using diluted baking soda solution. Mix half a cup of baking soda with a gallon of fresh water and soak your wetsuit for a few hours. This neutralizes acids that bacteria produce and leaves your suit smelling clean. After soaking, rinse thoroughly and hang to dry completely. For prevention going forward, invest in quality accessories like a dedicated wetsuit hanger, which helps water drain and air circulate properly during drying. Proper equipment makes prevention easier and more effective over time.
Common Questions
Can I wash my wetsuit in a washing machine?
No, avoid washing machines entirely. The agitation and heat damage neoprene and compromise the suit's stretch and durability. Stick to hand rinsing with fresh water and targeted soaking for deeper cleans. Your wetsuit will last much longer this way.
How often should I deep clean my wetsuit?
Deep clean your wetsuit once a month during heavy use, or every few months if you wear it casually. If you notice smell developing, clean immediately rather than waiting. Regular rinsing and proper drying prevent the need for frequent deep cleaning.
What's the best way to dry a wetsuit quickly?
Hang it inside-out in direct sunlight if possible, as UV rays naturally kill bacteria. Make sure air flows inside and outside the suit. In cooler climates, a fan pointed at the suit speeds drying. Never use a dryer or heat source, which damages neoprene permanently.
Can I use regular detergent to clean my wetsuit?
Regular detergent can leave residue in neoprene and irritate your skin. Stick to fresh water rinses and specialized wetsuit shampoo for deeper cleans. White vinegar and baking soda are also safe, natural options that work well.
Does a wetsuit hanger really make a difference?
Yes, a proper hanger prevents stretching and allows better water drainage and air circulation. It keeps your suit in shape while drying, which helps prevent odor buildup. Look for hangers designed specifically for wetsuits, not regular coat hangers.
Is it normal for wetsuits to smell a little?
A slight, faint smell is normal after use, but strong odor means bacteria are thriving. If your suit smells bad even after rinsing and drying, you need to deep clean it and improve your drying routine. Good habits keep smell minimal and manageable.
Keep Your Wetsuit Fresh and Ready
Proper storage and drying gear makes all the difference in preventing wetsuit from smelling. Invest in quality tools like a dedicated wetsuit hanger and make rinsing a habit after every session. Your nose, your friends, and your gear will thank you.
Shop Wetsuit Accessories
190149
