As convenient as it may be, we can’t just wash our wetsuit in the washing machine when it’s dirty. Nor can we leave it hanging on a hanger for too long hoping the odors and salt will go away on their own. Learn all about How to Deodorize Neoprene in this article.
To keep our equipment in good condition and ready to use at any time, we need to maintain it properly.
How to Deodorize Neoprene – Washing and Rinsing
Whether it’s a leisurely dive or a frantic triathlon event, your wetsuit is going to be along for the ride. And depending on how you store it, it may include interesting smells, salt, or dirt from your previous adventure. This can translate into a stiff suit that makes us uncomfortable or even annoyed and ruins the experience. We recommend this product for proper cleaning (Order it here).
This is why we must properly sweeten and clean our neoprene to preserve its elasticity, comfort, and insulating properties.
However, whatever you do, do not machine wash or tumble dry your suit, as this will cause damage to the neoprene, thus losing its properties.
Instead, we recommend using this easy wash and rinse routine to keep your wetsuit clean and supple:
1- Mix Revivex Wetsuit and Drysuit Shampoo (we use these brands) in a clean bowl or bucket with cold water.
2- Knead your wetsuit to wash it, wringing out excess water when it is thoroughly clean.
3- After rinsing out the shampoo, empty the container, making sure to squeeze the suds out of the shampoo.
4- And remember to use, as much as possible, a sink or a smaller 1 Gallon (4 lts) bucket to save water.
Mix Revivex Odor Eliminator with a little cold water in a bowl to deodorize the fabric and remove stubborn odors.
Soak your wetsuit in the mixture and after wringing it out, hang it on a padded hook to dry. For best results, wash and rinse your wetsuit thoroughly after each use.
- Clean and condition expensive wetsuits, drysuits and other neoprene gear; washes away organic residue, chlorine and salt
- Extend suit life by keeping neoprene supple and fresh while keeping colors bright; prevents premature aging and oxidation
- Use this gentle wash on booties, gloves, fishing waders, GORE-TEX fabrics and Lycra body wear; available in 10 fl oz pouch
Neoprene Drying
Did you know there is a right and wrong way to hang and dry your wetsuit?
UV rays from the sun and the dryer can cause serious damage to the material, stretching it, wearing it out, and damaging the neoprene that helps protect you in the water.
To dry your wetsuit safely, do the following:
– Use a padded wetsuit hanger and hang it up making sure the sun’s rays don’t hit it directly.
– Drain all the water out of it and hang it where it will get air. Or put it in front of the fan until it dries.
– Do not dry in direct sunlight.
– Do not tumble dry.
