Key Takeaways
- Immediate Action: Always rinse with fresh, cool water immediately after exiting the ocean or lake.
- No Heat: Never use hot water, washing machines, or dryers; heat destroys neoprene elasticity.
- Proper Storage: Store on a thick hanger or rolled up-never folded-to avoid permanent creases.
- Hygiene: Use specific wetsuit shampoos to break down bacteria and salt buildup without damaging the material.
Learning how to clean a wetsuit properly is the single most effective way to protect your investment. Whether you are rocking a high-performance O'Neill Bahia or a durable ZCCO shorty, the salt, chlorine, and UV rays are constantly working to break down the neoprene rubber. If you are still in the market for a new suit or looking to upgrade your current setup, check out The Ultimate Wetsuit Buying Guide for 2026: Thickness, Fit, and Style to ensure you start with the right gear.
The simple answer to wetsuit maintenance is this: Fresh water is non-negotiable. Saltwater crystallizes as it dries, acting like microscopic sandpaper that shreds the fibers of your suit from the inside out. By establishing a routine now, in early 2026, you ensure that your gear maintains its thermal properties and flexibility for seasons to come.
The Step-by-Step Wash Process
Mastering the Rinse and Wash
Modern neoprene used in 2026 is lighter and more flexible than previous generations, but it remains susceptible to chemical degradation. Here is the precise method to wash your suit without compromising its structural integrity.
1. The Immediate Rinse
Before you even drive home, try to rinse your suit. Most public beaches have showers; use them. If you are remote, bring a gallon jug of tap water. The goal is to flush out the bulk of the saltwater and sand immediately.
2. The Dunk Method
Once you are home, do not just spray the suit with a hose. You need full submersion.
- Fill a Tub: Use a large plastic tub or your bathtub. Fill it with cool or lukewarm fresh water.
- Add Cleaner: Add a capful of specialized wetsuit shampoo. Avoid standard laundry detergent, which is too harsh for the rubber.
- Submerge and Agitate: Turn your wetsuit inside out. Dunk it and gently knead the neoprene like you are massaging dough. This helps release trapped salt and body oils.
- Soak: Let it sit for 15-20 minutes. This allows the enzymes in the cleaner to break down bacteria (the source of that funky smell).
3. The Final Rinse
Drain the soapy water and rinse the suit thoroughly with fresh water again to remove any residue. Make sure to rinse the zippers particularly well, as salt corrosion here is a common failure point on suits like the ZCCO back-zip models.
Drying Your Wetsuit Correctly
Gravity and Shade: The Drying Rules
How you dry your suit is just as critical as how you wash it. The heat is the enemy. Direct sunlight and hot air will cause the neoprene to become brittle and crack, ruining the fit you carefully selected based on our Wetsuit Thickness Guide.
The Drying Protocol
- Inside Out First: Always dry the inside first. If the suit is still damp when you put it on next, it is much better to have the wet side out than against your skin.
- Shade Only: Hang the suit in a shaded, well-ventilated area. A shower rod or a shaded balcony is perfect. Never leave it drying in direct sunlight.
- Squeeze, Don't Wring: You can squeeze the ankles and wrists to drain excess water, but never wring the suit like a towel. Wringing tears the internal lining.
- Flip It: Once the inside is dry to the touch, flip it right-side out to dry the exterior.
Storage Solutions for Longevity
Storing a Wetsuit: Hanging vs. Rolling
When the season changes-perhaps you are switching from a winter steamer to a summer spring suit-proper storage is vital. Poor storage leads to compression creases, which reduce the insulation capability of the neoprene.
The Hanger Method
If you have closet space, hanging is preferred, but you must use the right hardware.
| Hanger Type | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Wire Hanger | ❌ AVOID | Cuts into the shoulders; destroys neoprene. |
| Standard Plastic | ⚠️ Risky | Can snap under wet weight; often too narrow. |
| Wide-Beam Hanger | ✅ Best | Distributes weight evenly across the shoulders. |
| Slide Hanger | ✅ Good | Hanging the suit folded at the waist reduces shoulder stress. |
The Roll Method
If you lack hanging space, rolling is the best alternative.
- Lay the suit flat.
- Fold the arms across the chest.
- Roll loosely from the legs up to the neck.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from ozone sources (like electric motors or heaters).
Note: Never fold a wetsuit tightly like a t-shirt. Hard folds become permanent cracks over time.
Dealing with Odors and Bacteria
The 'Wetsuit Funk' Battle
Even with regular rinsing, wetsuits can develop a persistent odor, often referred to as "neoprene funk." This is caused by bacteria feeding on sweat, dead skin cells, and algae trapped in the suit's pores.
In 2026, we have seen a shift toward enzyme-based cleaners rather than harsh chemical deodorizers. Enzyme cleaners (often labeled as "Bio" or "Eco") naturally digest the organic matter causing the smell.
Pro Tip: If you urinate in your wetsuit (a common reality for surfers and divers), a simple freshwater rinse is insufficient. You must use a wetsuit shampoo or a mild solution of Listerine (mouthwash) and water occasionally to kill the bacteria. However, dedicated wetsuit shampoos are safer for the glues used in modern seam sealing.
Taking care of your wetsuit does not require a degree in chemistry; it just requires consistency. By following these steps-freshwater rinse, shade drying, and proper hanging-you ensure that your gear remains comfortable and warm for years. A well-maintained suit performs better in the water, keeping you warmer and allowing you to stay out longer.
Remember, if your current suit is showing signs of thinning or stiffness despite your best efforts, it might be time to retire it. Consult our Wetsuit Thickness Guide to determine what your next upgrade should be based on your local water temperatures. Treat your gear with respect, and it will take care of you in the elements.