Imagine this: You’ve just had an epic day out on the waves, catching every swell and feeling like a true surfing pro. The sun was beaming down, the ocean was crystal clear, and you couldn’t have asked for a more perfect day. But now it’s time to pack up and head home, with your trusty wetsuit in tow.
As much as we love our wetsuits, they can get pretty grimy and smelly after a day of use. Luckily, there’s a solution – the washing machine. Yes, you heard that right – you can actually wash your wetsuit in a washing machine.
But before you toss it in with your regular laundry, there are some important things to know to ensure your wetsuit stays clean and in top condition.
So grab a cup of coffee (or maybe even a cold brew) and let’s dive into the process of washing a wetsuit in the good ol’ washing machine.
Here are some key pointers to keep in mind:
- Always opt for cold water
- Use mild detergent or specially formulated wetsuit cleaner
- Avoid fabric softener at all costs
- Select the gentle cycle setting
- Hang dry instead of using the dryer
Table of Contents
How To Wash Your Wetsuit Properly in 5 Easy Steps
| Step | Description | Notes |
| 1 | Gather necessary supplies | -Wetsuit wash or vinegar -Lukewarm water -Wide hanger -Washing machine with delicate cycle |
| 2 | Fill tub with lukewarm water and cleaning solution | -Fill tub enough to fully submerge wetsuit -Use recommended amount of cleaner based on instructions |
| 3 | Launder wetsuit in washing machine alone | -Ensure no other garments are in the machine -Select delicate cycle and add appropriate amount of cleaner according to instructions |
| 4 | Air-dry wetsuit on wide hanger in shaded area | -Turn wetsuit inside out until both sides are completely dry -Avoid wringing or applying direct heat as it may harm the material -Do not use a dryer as it can shrink the wetsuit and damage seams |
| 5 | Store wetsuit properly | -Ensure wetsuit is completely dry before storing -Store in a cool, dry place with proper air circulation to prevent mold and mildew growth -Avoid folding or creasing the wetsuit, as it may cause permanent damage to the material |
Best Wetsuit Cleaners
After extensive research and considering the unique needs of wetsuit cleaning, we have compiled a list of the best wetsuit cleaners for effectively and safely washing your wetsuit using a washing machine:
| “Piss Off” Wetsuit Cleaner | Specifically designed for neoprene wetsuits | Biodegradable and environmentally-friendly |
| “Sink the Stink” Wetsuit Cleaner | Removes odors and has antibacterial properties | Made with natural ingredients |
| “Mirazyme” Wetsuit Cleaner | Made with natural enzymes to eliminate odors and stains | Gentle on fabric |
| “Gear Aid Wetsuit and Drysuit Shampoo” | Cleans and conditions wetsuits, extending their lifespan | |
| “Woolite” Gentle Cycle Liquid Laundry Detergent | A mild alternative for washing wetsuits in a machine |
Remember to always use cold water and a gentle cycle when washing your wetsuit in a machine. Avoid using hot water or harsh detergents that can damage the fabric.
With our top recommended wetsuit cleaners, you can effectively remove dirt, salt, and other debris without compromising the quality or performance of your wetsuit. Keep it clean and fresh for your next surfing adventure.
Extra Wetsuit Care Tips
Caring for your wetsuit is essential, especially when it comes to machine washing. Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
- Use a mild, specialized cleaner: It’s vital to use a cleaner specifically designed for neoprene material when washing a wetsuit. Avoid using household products like detergent, bleach, or fabric softener as these can damage the fabric.
- Rinse thoroughly: After each dive, make sure to rinse the wetsuit with cool freshwater inside and out. This removes salt, sand, and organic residue that can wear down the neoprene over time.
- Soak in vinegar: To eliminate stubborn odors and bacteria, soak the wetsuit in a solution of water and white vinegar (one part vinegar to three parts water) for 15-30 minutes before rinsing.
- Air dry in the shade: Neoprene can deteriorate when exposed to heat, so it’s best to avoid drying the wetsuit in direct sunlight or using a dryer. Instead, lay the suit flat in the shade or hang it on a padded hanger with proper air circulation.
- Store properly: When not in use, store the wetsuit folded at the waist on a padded hanger. This prevents stretching at the shoulders and neck.
- Fix tears promptly: Tears and punctures should be addressed immediately using waterproof sealant or tire puncture sealant to prevent further damage and extend the life of the wetsuit.
By following these extra care tips, surfers can ensure their wetsuits stay clean, odor-free, and in good condition for many dives to come.
Regular maintenance and proper cleaning techniques are key to keeping your investment in top shape and enhancing your surfing experiences even more.
What You Need To Know About Washing Your Wetsuit
Washing your wetsuit after each use is highly recommended to eliminate salt, sand, and bacteria that can cause damage and unpleasant smells. However, whether or not to wash a wetsuit in a washing machine is a debatable topic among wetsuit owners.
While it is generally advised to hand-wash wetsuits, there are steps you can take to properly wash your wetsuit in a washing machine if necessary. Here are the recommended methods for using a washing machine to clean your wetsuit:
- Avoid hot water: It is best to use lukewarm water when washing your wetsuit in a machine as hot water can damage the neoprene material.
- Use delicate cycle: To prevent any harsh agitation that could harm your wetsuit, set the machine to the most delicate cycle.
- Don’t add other clothes: To avoid friction and damage, it is best to only wash your wetsuit alone in the washing machine.
- Hang to dry: Once washed, hang your wetsuit on a wide hanger in a shaded area to dry. Never use a dryer as it can damage the neoprene and cause creases.
- Turn inside out: To ensure complete drying, turn your wetsuit inside out and check for any remaining moisture before turning it again until both sides are dry.
It is important to note, however, that using a washing machine for cleaning wetsuits should be avoided as much as possible. Hand-washing with mild detergent remains the best method for maintaining the lifespan of your wetsuit.
Remember to also care for your wetsuit properly by thoroughly rinsing it after each use, soaking it in vinegar to eliminate odors, and promptly repairing any tears or punctures. By following these tips, you can ensure your wetsuit stays clean and in good condition for many surfing sessions to come.
Why Should You Wash A Wetsuit?
Maintaining the condition, flexibility, and performance of your wetsuit is essential for any avid surfer. The delicate neoprene material used in wetsuits can easily be damaged by saltwater, UV rays, and other environmental factors. To ensure your wetsuit lasts longer and serves you well during your surfing adventures, it is crucial to properly wash it after each use.
By regularly washing your wetsuit with fresh water, harmful elements such as salt and bacteria are removed, preserving the material, seams, and zippers. This simple step can greatly extend the lifespan of your wetsuit and keep it performing at its best.
But washing your wetsuit does more than just maintain its condition. Wetsuits are designed to provide a snug fit for insulation and protection against the cold water. However, over time, dirt, salt, and bacteria can build up on the material, causing it to lose its elasticity and become less effective. By washing your wetsuit after each use, you can prevent this buildup and maintain its stretchy performance.
Modern wetsuits are made with advanced technology and materials that greatly improve their quality and flexibility. However, without proper care and maintenance, these benefits can quickly diminish. By regularly washing your wetsuit, you can preserve its quality and get the most out of your investment.
Apart from maintaining performance and durability, washing your wetsuit also prevents unpleasant smells from accumulating. Saltwater, sand, sweat, and even urine can build up in a wetsuit if not cleaned regularly. These odors can be difficult to remove once they have set in, so it is important to wash your wetsuit after every use to prevent any lingering smells.
Extra Wetsuit Care Tips
Taking care of your wetsuit is crucial to maintaining its longevity and ensuring a comfortable surfing experience. In addition to washing your wetsuit in a washing machine, there are several extra steps you can take to ensure proper care and maintenance.
These include rinsing the wetsuit after every use, using specialized cleaners, and avoiding certain cleaning methods.
Rinse After Every Use:
To keep your wetsuit fresh and prevent the buildup of sweat and bacteria, it is essential to rinse it after every use.
This simple step can go a long way in maintaining the quality and durability of your wetsuit.
Use Specialized Cleaners:
If your wetsuit becomes stiff and smelly, do not hesitate to wash it with a specialized cleaner suitable for neoprene materials.
Using regular detergents or bleach can damage the material and affect its performance.
Thoroughly Clean Your Wetsuit:
Before washing, make sure all zippers are unlocked and unzipped, and turn the wetsuit inside out to thoroughly clean the parts that came in contact with your skin.
For best results, use a large basin or bathtub filled with cool to slightly warm water and add the appropriate amount of cleaner according to its label instructions.
Soak, Knead, Rinse:
Submerge the entire wetsuit in the water and allow it to soak for 15-20 minutes before gently kneading it with your hands (make sure nails are trimmed and no jewelry is worn).
Rinse the suit multiple times until all soap residue is gone, then hang it up on a hanger (use a thick one or multiple taped together to avoid stretching) in a shaded area to dry.
Proper Storage:
Do not iron or fold your wetsuit for storage; instead, store it on a hanger in a cool, dry place with good air circulation.
This will help prevent any wear and tear that can occur when storing the wetsuit improperly.
Additional Maintenance:
For extra maintenance, you can use a specialized wetsuit shampoo or create your own homemade cleaner using distilled white vinegar and essential oils.
These natural ingredients will help keep your wetsuit clean and fresh without causing any damage to the material.
Avoid Damage:
To prevent any damage to your wetsuit, avoid leaving it on the ground after use. This can lead to dirt buildup, mildew growth, and damage to the neoprene material.
Instead, hang it up to dry in a shaded area with good air circulation.
Remove Stains Carefully:
If there are small tears or cuts on your wetsuit, use repair kits such as Aquaseal Urethane Repair Adhesive and Sealant to fix them immediately before they become bigger issues.
When dealing with stains, do not use bleach or strong detergents; instead, directly apply cleaner and gently rub with a soft cloth before rinsing thoroughly.
Also Read: Can You Surf A Tsunami?
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is crucial to wash your wetsuit after each use to maintain its quality and prolong its lifespan.
While hand-washing is the recommended method, a washing machine can also be used if done correctly. However, there are some important steps to follow to ensure the best results.
First, always opt for cold water and avoid using fabric softener. Instead, use mild detergent or specially formulated wetsuit cleaner to protect the neoprene material.
Next, select the gentle cycle setting and skip the dryer – hang drying is the way to go. In addition to proper washing techniques, regularly rinsing your wetsuit with fresh water after each use and storing it properly can also help preserve its condition.
By following these tips and using our top recommended wetsuit cleaners, you can effectively remove dirt and odors without compromising the performance of your trusty wetsuit.
