Back in my first season surfing on a wetsuit I did any possible mistake when it came to wetsuit care—throwing my damp wetsuits in the dryer and even leaving them in the sun. Not surprisingly, those suits didn’t last long. I blamed the product but the truth is that neoprene need to be taken care of, even the most premium ones are not going to last if you make the same mistakes I did. To help you avoid ruining your wetsuit, let’s go over the right way to clean, dry, and store it properly.

1. Don't rinsing the wetsuit with cool, fresh water: Regardless of whether you have a 4/3 wetsuit, a wetsuit top, or a dry suit, saltwater and chlorine degrade neoprene over time. Always rinse your wetsuit after every use to remove salt, sand, and bacteria. Salt buildup crystallizes and weakens the neoprene, leading to leaks. A simple rinse significantly extends the lifespan of your wetsuit.
2. Dry it in direct sunlight: this is one of the worst enemies of wetsuits. UV rays damage all types of wetsuits, from diving wetsuits to surfing wetsuits. Always dry in the shade or indoors using a wetsuit hanger. If drying outside, turn it inside out to protect the outer layer.
3. Hang it from the chest and shoulders: Avoid stretching or damaging your wetsuit by storing it properly. Hang on a smooth, wide hanger or fold it over a PVC pipe to prevent creasing. Never hang by the shoulders—this can weaken the neoprene fibers over time.
4. Just use water to clean it: Over time, oils, sunscreen, and bacteria can cause your wetsuit to smell bad. Use a wetsuit cleaner or mild baby shampoo to keep it fresh. Avoid strong detergents, as they can break down the neoprene and seam glue.
5. Having a really tight suit:  Choosing the right thickness is essential not only for comfort but also to prevent damage from excessive stretching or struggling to take it off when it's too tight. If you're wondering what wetsuit is best for your local water conditions read this article we made for you.
6.  Pee in Your Wetsuit: While peeing in your wetsuit won’t destroy it, it does cause bad odors and bacteria buildup. Rinse with fresh water immediately after use. Use a wetsuit cleaner for a deep clean when needed.Wetsuit Care = Better Performance & Longer Life

Taking just a few minutes to rinse, dry, and store your wetsuit properly will keep it warmer, more flexible, and in great condition for years to come!