Everyone who starts SCUBA diving understands that purchasing gear represents a significant investment. Wetsuit packages are an excellent option for beginners who may not know exactly where to start. They are ideal for those who want to avoid spending much money on equipment they might not use regularly. However, a high-quality wetsuit often has a hefty price tag for those passionate about SCUBA diving. This is one important reason to take diligent care of your wetsuit, allowing you to maximize its value and extend its lifespan.
Sun and Heat Exposure
Although it may seem obvious to the average diver, keeping your wetsuit away from prolonged exposure to the sun and heat sources is one of the most fundamental ways to keep it in excellent condition. Wetsuits generally comprise foam neoprene, a type of synthetic rubber designed with the water enthusiast in mind. It helps regulate your body temperature and protect your skin from minor scrapes and bumps that can occur on any dive. Exposure to heat, even hot water, will cause the neoprene to break down, dry out, and lose its flexibility over time. Besides damage from the sun’s heat, UV rays accelerate the deterioration of your wetsuit, so never put it out in the sun to dry. If you want your suit to stay calm, keep it from heat!
Rinsing and Washing
Rinsing your wetsuit as soon as possible when you return to the surface will contribute significantly to its durability. Saltwater has similar effects on the neoprene as heat and UV; it will eventually result in dried-out, inflexible material and a premature trip to the dive shop for a new wetsuit. Rinsing the entire suit in cool freshwater upon shedding it will rid the surface of the damaging salts. Because the wetsuit retains oils and fluids produced by our bodies, it is a good idea to wash it in lukewarm water every few dives to rid the suit of odor-causing bacteria that build up. There are specially formulated wetsuit shampoos you can purchase, and some have even used baby shampoo or other forms of mild detergent, but never put your wetsuit in a washing machine! Always soak and wash by hand.
Drying and Storage
Once properly rinsed or washed your wetsuit, you must ensure it is dried thoroughly and stored correctly. Hang your wetsuit in an area with plentiful airflow, such as a shady tree branch, or from the underside of a big patio umbrella. Your wetsuit will dry more thoroughly and quickly than if you were to lay it on a flat surface. Some recommend turning the wetsuit inside out before hanging it; if you don’t have time to let it dry entirely, at least the inside will be dry for you when you put it back on.
As a preemptive measure before storing or your next wearing, you may want to try a product called Suit Juice. Suit Juice is a lubricant and conditioner that is specially formulated for wetsuits. Using the spray on your body can make the process of donning your wetsuit much easier, and use on your wetsuit aids in disinfecting, eliminating odors, and conditioning the neoprene for longer-lasting wear. It is also hypoallergenic and 100% biodegradable, making it a smart choice for many functions combined.
Now that you have dried and prepared your wetsuit for storage, keep it on a hanger made of any material but wire, as the metal will also cause deterioration. Folding or crumpling your wetsuit will create creases that weaken the material, resulting in cracks and that dreaded loss of flexibility. If hanging is not an option, try to find a flat surface for storing the wetsuit.
Whatever your level of diving activity is, it is possible to lengthen the lifespan of your wetsuit or any scuba gear by taking a little extra time to care for its well-being!
