How to Clean a Wet Suit

If you are just learning to surf, you’ll find that besides your surfboard, a good wet suit is a great investment. Even in the warmest months, ocean water can be cold. But you need to take good care of your suit to keep to extend its life. Here’s how.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Rinse your suit as soon as you get out of the ocean in fresh water. Most beaches have outdoor showers available.
2. When you get home, rinse your suit more thoroughly in the shower. You will want to get as much salt water off as possible. You can also rinse outside with a hose.
3. For tougher smells, you might want to invest in a wet suit “shampoo.” You’ll find many available at your local surf shop.
4. Gently wring out excess water and let your suit drip dry, preferably indoors, or out of direct sunlight.
5. For tears, you can buy wet suit repair kits that have special adhesives and sealants at your local surf shop.

Tips & Warnings

• Never wash or dry your suit in a machine washer or dryer. It will rip and tear.
• Never leave your suit balled up in the car.
• Do not leave your suit in the sun for long periods of time. It can get too dry and crack.
• Avoid peeing in your suit.