A wetsuit can be a significant investment, with the average wetsuit in the UK costing in excess of £150+, It is important to take proper care of your gear, to maintain its performance & extend its lifespan.
Did you know? - that neoprene is not easily recycled and does not degrade easily? It is also a fabric made from petroleum, which is bad for the environment once it starts to break down. An estimated 8,380 tonnes of old wetsuits a year globally, head to landfill or to be incinerated.
With a bit of TLC for our wetsuit kit, we can help prevent more neoprene heading to landfill and do our bit to keep the planet a bit greener & cleaner!
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned surfer, triathlete or a kite surfer, these wetsuit care tips will help you keep your wetsuit in excellent condition for years to come, saving you money & keeping your kit in the game for longer!
Don't pee in your wetsuit
It may seem obvious, but never pee in your wetsuit. Urine can break down the neoprene and cause odours that are difficult to remove. If you must go, exit the water and use the bathroom. Or if you are really hardcore and cannot miss a wave, be sure to thoroughly rinse and clean your wetsuit using a wetsuit shampoo.
Taking off your wetsuit kit & putting it on
Be careful when putting on and taking off your wetsuit Putting on and taking off a wetsuit can be challenging, but it is essential to take your time and be gentle to avoid stretching or tearing the neoprene. Use your fingertips to handle the neoprene, and avoid using your fingernails, as they can puncture the material.
Top Tip: Use a plastic carrier bag on each foot to help easily slide your legs into your suit one at a time.
Stop letting it fester in the boot of the car
No, wetsuits are not meant to be left wet, in the boot of your car to fester until your next use. Unless you are doing some strange experiment to deter anyone from being near you on water - do everyone a favour and rinse & clean your suit. Only then, once its dry - it can have a nice rest in your boot, awaiting its next use.
Rinse your wetsuit after each use
After every surf session, swim, or paddle, rinse your wetsuit thoroughly with clean fresh water. Saltwater, sand, chlorine & organic particles can damage the neoprene. A quick rinse will help remove any dirt or grime that could cause odors or degrade the material. Turn the wetsuit inside out and rinse it thoroughly, paying special attention to areas such as the neck, armpits, and crotch.
Use a wetsuit shampoo
Using a wetsuit shampoo can help remove any odours, particles and bacteria from your wetsuit, as well as condition the neoprene. A wetsuit shampoo is specially designed to clean and maintain the wetsuit's elasticity, keeping it supple and flexible. Try our Coco Loco Eco Wetsuit Shampoo here.
Hang your wetsuit to dry
After rinsing and washing, hang your wetsuit to dry. Make sure you hang it in a shaded, well-ventilated area, out of direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can damage the neoprene, and a damp wetsuit can cause mold and mildew to grow.
Never use a washing machine
Never put your wetsuit in a washing machine or dryer.
The agitator in a washing machine can damage the neoprene, and the heat from the dryer can shrink and weaken the material. Always hand wash your wetsuit with a mild detergent.
Store your wetsuit properly
Proper storage is essential to extend the life of your wetsuit. Make sure it is completely dry before storing it. Fold it neatly and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid folding it in the same place repeatedly, as this can cause creases that can damage the neoprene.
Avoid sharp objects and rough surfaces
Avoid exposing your wetsuit to sharp objects or rough surfaces that could damage the neoprene. Take care when putting on and taking off your wetsuit, and avoid wearing jewellery or sharp objects that could puncture or tear the material.
Patch any holes or tears & reinforce worn areas
If your wetsuit gets a hole or tear, patch it up as soon as possible to prevent further damage. You can also reinforce areas of high use such as knees & shoulders to prevent those areas from failing & adding a layer of protection. Use our super strong and easy to use permanent repair patch.
Beware of your suncream!
Avoid using petroleum-based products, such as sunscreen. They can damage the neoprene material and cause it to break down prematurely.
Instead, opt for a water-based sunscreen or apply it before putting on your wetsuit.
Summary
In conclusion, taking proper care of your wetsuit can extend its lifespan and ensure that it performs at its best for many years. It will also prevent more nasty neoprene heading to landfill, whilst saving you money!
Simply by following these tips, you'll be able to enjoy your wetsuit and get the most value from your investment.
Keep your kit your kit in the game for longer!
Maintain - Repair - Reuse
