Equipment Care

Caring for your wetsuit

Cleaning your wetsuit prevents odors and extends the life of your diving gear. Rinse your suit inside and out in fresh water after the day's diving is done. Back home from your dive trip, clean your wetsuit thoroughly before storing.

You can soak your wetsuit in a bathtub of lukewarm water, using a wetsuit shampoo, mild dish soap or Woolite. Remember, don't run your suit through an agitator-style washer, which could cut the fabric. Consider buying an inexpensive plastic barrel. Put all your gear inside, and add soap and water.

While your wetsuit is soaking in the soapy water, move all the zippers up and down to get rid of any particles that remain from your diving trip. Rinse and hang to dry.

Make sure your wetsuit is completely dry before you store it. Hang in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Use a special wetsuit hanger created by diving manufacturers to avoid creasing or stretching.