How to Remove Salt from Wetsuit

Salt water is a wetsuit's worst enemy. When you surf, dive, or swim in the ocean, salt crystals embed themselves into the neoprene fabric and seams. Over time, this buildup breaks down the material, making it stiff, brittle, and less effective at keeping you warm. Removing salt promptly after every session is the single best way to extend your wetsuit's lifespan. The good news? It's simple and takes just a few minutes. Fresh water is your primary tool, and a gentle approach prevents damage while getting your gear truly clean. Most wetsuiters skip this step or do it wrong, which is why their suits deteriorate faster than they should. Let's walk through the right way to remove salt from your wetsuit so it stays supple and performs season after season.

Beyond basic salt removal, a few extra techniques keep your wetsuit in top condition. For heavily salted suits, a specialized wetsuit shampoo designed for neoprene can help break down salt buildup without harming the material. Use it sparingly during your soak, then rinse thoroughly. Some surfers add a small amount of white vinegar to their rinse water, which helps neutralize salt and odors, though this is optional. Always use cool water, never hot, because heat shrinks neoprene and weakens the glue holding seams together. If your suit develops a musty smell despite rinsing, it's likely mold or bacteria, not salt. In that case, soak it in cool water with a few drops of tea tree oil or specialized wetsuit cleaner. Store your clean, dry suit in a cool, dark closet away from direct sunlight and heat vents. Proper storage combined with regular salt removal means your wetsuit stays flexible, warm, and durable for years of use.

Can I use hot water to remove salt from my wetsuit?

No, avoid hot water. Hot water can shrink neoprene, weaken seams, and damage the suit's insulation properties. Always use cool or lukewarm fresh water when rinsing or soaking your wetsuit.

How often should I remove salt from my wetsuit?

Rinse your wetsuit with fresh water immediately after every ocean session. This prevents salt from drying and crystallizing in the fabric. If you surf daily, a quick rinse takes just a few minutes and makes a huge difference in longevity.

What if my wetsuit still smells salty or musty after rinsing?

A lingering smell usually means mold or bacteria, not salt. Soak your suit in cool fresh water for 30 minutes, then air dry completely in sunlight or a well-ventilated area. If the smell persists, use a wetsuit-specific cleaner or a few drops of tea tree oil in the rinse water.

Is it safe to machine wash a wetsuit to remove salt?

Machine washing is not recommended. The agitation and heat can damage neoprene, stretch seams, and reduce the suit's lifespan. Hand rinsing and soaking in fresh water is gentler and more effective for salt removal.

Can salt buildup be permanent if I don't remove it right away?

If salt dries and crystallizes in the neoprene, it becomes harder to remove but not impossible. Soak the suit for longer periods and repeat the rinse process. However, preventing salt buildup with immediate rinsing is always easier and better for your wetsuit.

Should I rinse the inside and outside of my wetsuit separately?

Yes, salt gets trapped on both sides. Rinse the outside under running water, then hold the suit open and rinse the inside thoroughly. During soaking, gently squeeze water through the fabric to ensure salt removal from both surfaces.