How to Dry an Old Wetsuit
Why Proper Drying Matters for Your Wetsuit
Drying an old wetsuit correctly is one of the easiest ways to keep it functional for years. Improper drying causes mold, mildew, salt buildup, and material breakdown that can ruin even a quality suit. Whether your wetsuit is brand new or has seen countless sessions, the drying process is the same: gentle, patient, and away from direct heat. A well-dried wetsuit stays flexible, maintains its seal, and resists odors that come from trapped moisture. Taking 10 minutes to dry your suit properly beats replacing it in a year.
5 Steps to Dry an Old Wetsuit Properly
Rinse with fresh water immediately. After every session, rinse your wetsuit inside and out with cool fresh water. This removes salt, sand, and chlorine that trap moisture and break down neoprene. Use a hose or shower, and gently squeeze water through the material without twisting or wringing.
Hang it on a wide hanger or rack. Narrow hangers create stress points and permanent creases. Use a padded hanger, clothes rack, or dedicated wetsuit hanger with wide shoulders. Hanging allows water to drain naturally and air to circulate around the entire suit.
Choose a shaded, well-ventilated spot. Direct sunlight breaks down neoprene and fades colors fast. Dry your suit in a garage, porch, or shaded outdoor area with good airflow. Wind helps speed up drying without heat damage that comes from sun exposure.
Flip it halfway through. After 24 hours, flip your suit to dry the other side evenly. This prevents water pooling in the arms or legs and ensures the interior dries completely. Total drying time is usually 48 to 72 hours depending on thickness and humidity.
Store it flat or loosely folded once dry. Never roll or tightly fold a damp suit. Once completely dry, fold it loosely or hang it on a hanger in a cool, dark closet. Proper storage prevents mold and keeps the material supple for your next water session.
Common Mistakes That Damage Old Wetsuits
Many people accidentally damage their wetsuits while trying to dry them fast. Using a washing machine, dryer, or direct heat from a radiator or heater breaks down neoprene and causes permanent damage. Wringing or twisting squeezes out the material's elasticity. Leaving a wet suit in a bag or car trunk traps moisture and creates mold that stains and smells terrible. Hanging suits on thin wire hangers creates permanent dents and stretched shoulders. The key is patience. Your old wetsuit deserves the same care as a new one, and slow air drying is always the right choice. If you're tired of the drying hassle, consider investing in a wetsuit drying rack that makes the process faster and more organized.
Common Questions
How long does it take to dry an old wetsuit?
Most wetsuits take 48 to 72 hours to dry completely, depending on thickness, humidity, and airflow. Thicker suits (5mm and above) take longer than thinner ones. If your area is humid or there's little air movement, add an extra day. Patience is worth it to avoid mold and odors.
Can I speed up drying an old wetsuit?
Yes, but safely. Hang it in a breezy outdoor spot (shaded) or near a fan indoors. Good ventilation cuts drying time without heat damage. Never use a hair dryer, heater, or direct sunlight as shortcuts. These methods break down neoprene and shorten your suit's life.
What should I do if my wetsuit smells after drying?
Odor means bacteria or mold is present. Rinse the suit again with fresh water and a mild vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 4 parts water), then dry it again in a well-ventilated area. Once dry, store it in a cool, dry place. Prevent future smells by rinsing and drying immediately after each use.
Is it okay to dry a wetsuit inside my home?
Yes, but choose a spot with good airflow like a laundry room, bathroom with a vent fan, or basement. Avoid living rooms where moisture spreads to furniture. If hanging indoors, place a towel underneath to catch drips. Ensure the area stays cool and dry to prevent mold growth.
How often should I wash an old wetsuit?
Rinse with fresh water after every use, but only wash with soap once a month or after heavy use. Use lukewarm water and a gentle soap made for wetsuits. Frequent washing with harsh soaps breaks down the material faster than rinsing alone.
Can I dry two wetsuits at the same time?
Yes, as long as they're on separate hangers with space between them for air to flow. Stacking or crowding suits traps moisture and slows drying. If space is tight, dry one first, then the other. Proper airflow is more important than speed.
Make Drying Easier with the Right Gear
Drying an old wetsuit doesn't have to be a hassle. The Drip Suit is designed to make the process faster and neater, with an easy-hang design and integrated hooks for booties and gloves. Save time and keep your gear organized in one place.
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