When you buy a new wetsuit, this is considered a significant investment, but it is well worth it. Like any scuba diving equipment , a wetsuit can last for years if you really cared for it. 

Follow the 6 steps that are prescribed in this article after buying your wetsuit and then again after every dive in salt water to clean and care for your wetsuit and keep it in good condition for all your coming adventures.

6 Steps to Clean and Care for Your Wetsuit 

Caring for your wetsuit is crucial to maintain its performance and longevity. The 6 steps to properly clean and care for your wetsuit, including:

• Soak it.
• scrub it.
• Rinse it.
• Inspect it.
• Hang it.
• Store it.

follow them to extend the life of your wetsuit and ensure a comfortable and effective fit during any of the water activities.

Soak It 

Soak your wetsuit in cold or lukewarm freshwater with a mild solution of wetsuit shampoo or baking soda immediately after diving (avoid using hot water, as it can make your suit lose flexibility).

The importance of using a mild detergent is keeping the neoprene from taking on any odor. Ensure to soak your wetsuit for at least 30 minutes, then turn it inside out and soak again for another 30 minutes.

Scrub It 

While soaking the wetsuit, ensure to pull all the zippers up and down to dislodge any dirt if found. 

Use a toothbrush to scrub the zippers and velcro patches, this will help to get out any dirt, sand or any other debris. Repeat this process several times if needed until all the zippers operate smoothly.

Rinse It 

After you soak the suit, give it a thorough rinse (inside and out) with fresh water until you remove the cleaning product.

Inspect It 

Search for gouges oor tears, especially along the suit’s seams. Try to resew the nylon with heavy polyester thread if you found that necessary or you can repair the neoprene with the cement of the wetsuit.

Hang It 

Turn the wetsuit inside out before you hang it on a flat hanger away from any direct sunlight, then turn it right-side out and repeat the process.

Store It 

Store the suit on the hanger or loosely folded and ensure that the temperature in that place is consistent.

It is important to clean and care for your wetsuit and other scuba diving equipment continuously, as this will make them last for years.