How to Wash a Wetsuit

Why Proper Wetsuit Care Matters

A quality wetsuit is an investment, and washing it correctly is the best way to protect that investment. Salt water, chlorine, sweat, and UV exposure all break down neoprene over time, causing fading, brittleness, and loss of flexibility. Learning how to wash a wetsuit properly can add years to its life and keep it performing like new. The good news is that washing a wetsuit is straightforward once you know what to do and what to avoid. Most damage comes from using hot water, harsh detergents, or wringing the suit dry. In this guide, we'll walk through every step to keep your wetsuit in top condition, whether you're a daily surfer or occasional swimmer.

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5 Steps to Wash Your Wetsuit

Rinse immediately after use with fresh water. Use a hose or shower to remove salt, sand, and debris. Pay special attention to seams, armpits, and the neck area where salt accumulates. This quick rinse is the single most important step to prevent salt damage.

Fill a tub or sink with cool water and add a small amount of mild detergent designed for wetsuits. Avoid regular laundry detergent, which is too harsh. Submerge the suit and gently agitate it for 5-10 minutes, focusing on areas that contact your skin most.

Drain the soapy water and rinse the suit thoroughly under cool running water until no soap remains. Squeeze gently as you rinse, but never wring or twist the neoprene. Residual soap breaks down the material and causes odors.

Hang the suit to dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Direct sunlight and heat damage neoprene and cause discoloration. Hang it inside-out first for 12-24 hours, then flip and hang right-side-out until completely dry.

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Never fold or crease the suit for extended periods. Use a wetsuit rack or hanger to maintain its shape and prevent creasing during storage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Washing a Wetsuit

Hot water is the enemy of neoprene. Even warm water can damage the material and cause it to shrink or lose elasticity. Stick to cool water, period. Another common mistake is using a washing machine or dryer, which subjects the suit to agitation and heat that neoprene can't handle. Hand washing takes just a few minutes and makes a huge difference. Don't use bleach, fabric softener, or regular detergent either. These products break down the neoprene's integrity and strip away protective coatings. Finally, avoid hanging your suit in direct sunlight to dry. UV rays fade the color and weaken the material over time. A shaded spot indoors or under an awning works perfectly. If your suit develops an odor despite proper washing, soak it briefly in white vinegar and water, then rinse thoroughly.

Common Questions

How often should I wash my wetsuit?

Rinse your wetsuit with fresh water after every use. A full wash with detergent is needed once every 2-4 weeks depending on usage. If you surf or swim daily in salt water, wash more frequently. Freshwater swimmers can wash less often. Always rinse immediately after use, even if you skip the full wash.

Can I use regular laundry detergent to wash a wetsuit?

No. Regular detergent is too harsh and breaks down neoprene. Use a specialized wetsuit shampoo or a very mild soap like baby shampoo. Wetsuit-specific products are formulated to clean without damaging the material. They're worth the small extra cost.

How long does it take a wetsuit to dry?

A wetsuit typically takes 24-48 hours to dry completely when hung in a shaded, well-ventilated space. Hang it inside-out first for the first 12-24 hours, then flip it. In humid climates or during winter, drying may take longer. Never use heat to speed up drying.

What should I do if my wetsuit smells bad?

Soak the suit in a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and fresh water for 30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly and hang to dry. Vinegar kills odor-causing bacteria without damaging neoprene. For stubborn odors, repeat the process or use a specialized wetsuit deodorizer.

Can I iron or use heat to dry my wetsuit faster?

Absolutely not. Heat damages neoprene permanently. Never use a dryer, iron, hair dryer, or place the suit near a heater. Air drying in shade is the only safe method. Rushing the drying process will ruin your suit.

Is it okay to fold my wetsuit for storage?

Avoid folding for long periods, as creases can become permanent. Instead, hang your suit on a proper wetsuit hanger or rack in a cool, dry closet. If space is limited, roll it loosely rather than folding. Store away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Keep Your Wetsuit Organized and Ready

Proper washing is only half the battle. Storing your wetsuit correctly ensures it stays fresh and ready for your next adventure. The Drip Suit makes drying and storage effortless with its easy-hang design and integrated hooks for booties and gloves. Everything dries in one place, and the suit stays in perfect condition.

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