Alright, let’s be real – you’ve just dropped some serious coin on a new wetsuit. You’re stoked to hit the water and score some epic waves (or explore those underwater caves). But hold up! Before you zip up and paddle out, you need to know how to properly care for your new rubbery friend. Think of your wetsuit as a high-performance piece of equipment. Just like your favourite surfboard or your trusty bakkie, it needs some TLC to keep it performing at its best. Proper care and maintenance will not only prolong the life of your wetsuit but also enhance its performance and keep you warmer in the water. So let’s get you up to speed on how to look after your wetsuit.
Rinse and Repeat: Post-Surf Rituals
After every surf session, it’s crucial to give your wetsuit a good rinse. Saltwater, sand, and even sunscreen can wreak havoc on the neoprene, causing it to deteriorate and lose its flexibility. Here’s the lowdown:
- Freshwater is key: Use cool, fresh water to rinse both the inside and outside of your wetsuit. Avoid hot water, as it can damage the neoprene.
- Don’t forget the zips: Pay special attention to the zippers, rinsing away any sand or debris that can cause them to jam or break.
- Soak it up: For a deeper clean, consider soaking your wetsuit in a tub of fresh water for a few minutes. This will help remove any lingering salt or grime.
Speaking of surfing, don’t forget your board needs pampering too! Check out our surfboard care guide for all the tips.
Drying Techniques: Air it Out
Proper drying is just as important as rinsing. Leaving your wetsuit damp can lead to nasty odours and even mould growth. Follow these steps for optimal drying:
- Inside out first: Hang your wetsuit inside out in a shaded area. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can fade the colours and damage the neoprene.
- Hanger etiquette: Use a wide, padded hanger to avoid stretching the shoulders of your wetsuit.
- Flip it and finish it: Once the inside is dry, turn it right side out and let it dry completely.
Storage Solutions: Keep it Cozy
When you’re not shredding waves or exploring the depths of the Atlantic, it’s important to store your wetsuit properly to prevent damage and keep it in top condition. Here are some storage tips:
- Fold it right: Fold your wetsuit in half lengthwise, then fold it in half again. Avoid sharp creases, which can damage the neoprene.
- Cool and dark: Store your wetsuit in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat.
- No hanging around: Avoid hanging your wetsuit for long periods, as this can cause it to stretch out of shape.
Deep Clean Your Suit
Every now and then, your wetsuit will need a deeper clean to remove any lingering odours or bacteria. Here’s how to give it a proper refresh:
- Wetsuit shampoo: Use a specially formulated wetsuit shampoo to clean your suit. Avoid harsh detergents or soaps, as they can damage the neoprene. Stay FAR away from the Jik, people!
- Gentle hand wash: Hand wash your wetsuit in cool water with the wetsuit shampoo.
- Rinse thoroughly: Rinse your wetsuit thoroughly with cool, fresh water until all the soap is gone.
Zipper Care
The zipper is one of the most important parts of your wetsuit, and it needs proper care to ensure it functions smoothly. Here are some zipper tips:
- Keep it clean: Rinse the zipper after every surf session to remove any sand or debris.
- Lubricate it: Use a zipper lubricant like beeswax or a silicone spray to keep the zipper running smoothly.
- Be gentle: Avoid forcing the zipper if it gets stuck. Instead, try gently working it back and forth until it loosens.
Pee-haps Not: Dealing with Accidents
Let’s face it, accidents happen, especially if you’re out in the ocean for prolonged periods of time. If you have a little “leak” in your wetsuit, don’t panic! Here’s how to handle it:
- Rinse immediately: Rinse the affected area with cool, fresh water as soon as possible.
- Soak it up: Soak your wetsuit in a tub of cool water with a mild detergent or wetsuit shampoo.
- Air dry thoroughly: Allow your wetsuit to air dry completely before storing it.
Spot Treatment to Tackle Stains
Got a stubborn stain on your wetsuit? Don’t stress! Here are a few tips for removing stains:
- Baking soda: Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing.
- Vinegar: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water and apply it to the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing.
- Commercial stain remover: If all else fails, try using a commercial stain remover specifically designed for wetsuits.
Repairs and Maintenance: Patching Things Up
Over time, your wetsuit may develop small tears or holes. Don’t throw it away just yet! You can easily repair minor damage with a wetsuit repair kit.
- Clean the area: Clean the area around the tear or hole with rubbing alcohol.
- Apply the patch: Follow the instructions on the wetsuit repair kit to apply the patch.
- Let it cure: Allow the patch to cure completely before using your wetsuit.
Bonus Tips for Wetsuit Longevity
- Avoid contact with sharp objects: Rocks, coral, and even your own surfboard can damage your wetsuit.
- Don’t leave it in the car: The heat inside a parked car can damage the neoprene.
- Don’t over-stretch it: Avoid pulling or stretching your wetsuit unnecessarily.
- Check for wear and tear: Regularly inspect your wetsuit for any signs of wear and tear, such as thinning neoprene or loose seams.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your wetsuit in tip-top shape for many sessions to come. Now go out there, catch some waves, and enjoy your time in the water!
In need of a new suit? Check out our ultimate wetsuit buying guide and our guide to navigating deals for wetsuits for sale.
FAQs
Can you put wetsuits in the washing machine?
Nah, brah. Tossing your wetsuit in the washing machine is a big no-no. The agitation and harsh detergents can damage the neoprene and seams, shortening the lifespan of your suit. Stick to hand washing with cool water and a wetsuit-specific shampoo.
What kind of soap do you use to wash a wetsuit?
Ditch the regular laundry detergent and opt for a specially formulated wetsuit shampoo. These shampoos are designed to gently clean your wetsuit without damaging the neoprene or stripping away its essential oils. You can find wetsuit shampoo at Wetsuit Warehouse – just ask our friendly staff for recommendations!
Can you patch a hole in a wetsuit?
Absolutely! Minor tears and holes can be easily repaired with a wetsuit repair kit. These kits usually include neoprene patches and adhesive, allowing you to fix those pesky leaks and extend the life of your suit. Pop into Wetsuit Warehouse to grab a repair kit and get your suit back in action.
Can you use superglue on a wetsuit?
While superglue might seem like a quick fix, it’s not the best option for wetsuit repairs. Superglue can damage the neoprene and make the repair less flexible. It’s best to use a proper wetsuit repair kit with neoprene-specific adhesive for a more durable and flexible repair.