The Ultimate Guide: How to Properly Dry Your Wetsuit

Drying your wetsuit properly can often feel like a daunting chore. Did you know that the way you dry and store your suit significantly affects its longevity and performance? This article is here to guide you through easy-to-follow steps, ensuring your all-important gear remains in top shape for longer.

Dive right in to learn about efficient drying techniques, beneficial storage tips, and more, becoming a master of wetsuit care!

Key Takeaways

• Properly drying your wetsuit after each use helps prevent odor and bacteria growth, extends its lifespan, and maintains its performance and flexibility.
• Rinse your wetsuit with fresh water to remove salt and dirt, then hang it in a well – ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
• Avoid folding or creasing the wetsuit while drying to prevent damage. Consider using a wide plastic hanger or a specialized drying gadget for faster drying.
• Store your wetsuit in a cool, dry place without folding or creasing it. Regularly inspect and maintain your wetsuit to ensure it stays in good condition.

Why Properly Drying Your Wetsuit is Important

Properly drying your wetsuit is important because it prevents odor and bacteria growth, extends the lifespan of your wetsuit, and maintains its performance and flexibility.

Prevents odor and bacteria growth

Drying your wetsuit right keeps it from smelling bad. It also keeps germs from growing. After you use your wetsuit, rinse it with fresh water. Hang it up in a place with lots of air to dry off fast.

This helps keep the suit clean and fresh for your next swim or surf session!

Extends the lifespan of your wetsuit

Properly drying your wetsuit can help extend its lifespan. When you dry your wetsuit correctly, it helps prevent damage and wear over time. By removing excess water and moisture, you can avoid issues like mold, mildew, and bacteria growth that can cause odor and deterioration of the fabric.

Taking the time to properly dry your wetsuit after each use will help keep it in great condition for many more adventures in the water.

Maintains the wetsuit’s performance and flexibility

Properly drying your wetsuit is important because it helps maintain the wetsuit’s performance and flexibility. When you dry your wetsuit correctly, it prevents any water from getting trapped inside, which can affect how well the suit insulates and keeps you warm in the water.

Hanging your wetsuit in a well-ventilated area allows it to completely dry out and ensures that it stays in top shape for longer. By taking care of your wetsuit through proper drying techniques, you can make sure that it continues to provide optimal performance and flexibility every time you wear it.

How to Properly Dry Your Wetsuit

To properly dry your wetsuit, start by rinsing it with fresh water to remove any salt or sand. Then, hang the wetsuit in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Consider using a wetsuit drying gadget or surf sock to speed up the drying process and prevent odors.

Rinse the wetsuit with fresh water

After each use, make sure to rinse your wetsuit with fresh water. This helps remove any salt, sand, or dirt that may have accumulated while you were out on the water. Remember to turn the wetsuit inside out as you rinse it to ensure thorough cleaning.

By rinsing your wetsuit with fresh water, you can prevent odor and bacteria growth, keeping it clean and ready for your next adventure in the waves.

Hang the wetsuit in a well-ventilated area

After rinsing your wetsuit with fresh water, it’s important to hang it in a well-ventilated area. This will allow air to circulate around the wetsuit and help it dry faster. A well-ventilated area can be a room with open windows or a covered outdoor spot with good airflow.

Avoid hanging the wetsuit in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as this can damage the fabric and affect its performance. By hanging your wetsuit properly, you’ll ensure that it dries thoroughly and is ready for your next water adventure!

Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources

Direct sunlight and heat sources can be harmful to your wetsuit when drying it. They can cause the fabric to fade, become brittle, and lose its flexibility. To prevent damage, it’s best to avoid hanging your wetsuit in direct sunlight or near any heat sources like radiators or heaters.

Instead, find a well-ventilated area that is cool and dry for optimal drying conditions. This will help maintain the performance and lifespan of your wetsuit, ensuring that it stays in good shape for all your water adventures.

Consider using a wetsuit drying gadget or surf sock

You can make drying your wetsuit even easier by using a wetsuit drying gadget or surf sock. These specialized tools help to absorb excess moisture and promote faster drying, allowing you to get back in the water sooner.

A wetsuit drying gadget is typically made of absorbent material that you can place inside your wetsuit after rinsing it with freshwater. It helps to draw out the remaining water, speeding up the drying process.

On the other hand, a surf sock is like a large fabric bag that you can slide your wet wetsuit into for hanging and storage. It not only protects your wetsuit from dust and dirt but also absorbs some of the moisture while allowing air to circulate and dry it out more efficiently.

Additional Tips for Drying Your Wetsuit

– Roll your wetsuit in a towel before hanging to help absorb excess moisture and speed up the drying process.

– Turn your wetsuit inside out every few hours to ensure both sides dry evenly and prevent mold or mildew from forming.

– Squeeze out any remaining water as it dries, focusing on areas like the cuffs and ankles where water tends to collect.

– Use a wide plastic hanger to hang your wetsuit, avoiding metal ones that can stretch or damage the neoprene material.

Roll your wetsuit in a towel before hanging

Rolling your wetsuit in a towel before hanging it up can help it dry faster. When you roll the wetsuit tightly, the towel absorbs excess water from the fabric, speeding up the drying process.

This method is especially useful if you need to dry your wetsuit quickly and don’t have much time. By removing as much moisture as possible with a towel, you’ll prevent mildew and odor from developing on your wetsuit.

So remember, after rinsing your wetsuit, give it a good squeeze and then roll it up in a towel before hanging it to dry.

Turn your wetsuit inside out every few hours

To speed up the drying process and prevent musty smells, make sure to turn your wetsuit inside out every few hours. This helps air circulate throughout the entire suit, allowing it to dry more evenly.

By doing this simple step, you’ll ensure that your wetsuit dries faster and stays fresh for your next aquatic adventure.

Squeeze out excess water as it dries

To help your wetsuit dry faster, it’s a good idea to squeeze out any excess water as it dries. This can be done by gently pressing on the wetsuit and wringing out the water. By doing this, you’ll speed up the drying process and prevent any remaining moisture from causing odor or bacteria growth.

Remember to turn your wetsuit inside out every couple of hours as well to ensure that both sides are drying evenly.

Use a wide plastic hanger to prevent stretching

To prevent your wetsuit from stretching, it’s best to use a wide plastic hanger when drying it. This will help the wetsuit maintain its shape and fit properly when you wear it next.

By using a wider hanger, the weight of the wet suit is distributed evenly, reducing the risk of stretching in specific areas. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference in preserving the longevity and performance of your wetsuit.

Proper Storage of Your Wetsuit

Store your wetsuit in a cool, dry place to prevent damage and maintain its quality. Avoid folding or creasing the wetsuit, as this can lead to permanent wrinkles. Consider using a wetsuit hanger or storage bag for added protection.

Regularly inspect and maintain your wetsuit to ensure it stays in top condition. Don’t forget these essential steps for proper wetsuit care!

Don’t miss out on more valuable tips and tricks for drying and caring for your wetsuit – continue reading our ultimate guide!

Store the wetsuit in a cool, dry place

After properly drying your wetsuit, it’s important to store it in a cool and dry place. This will help prevent any moisture buildup or mildew growth that can damage the wetsuit. Avoid folding or creasing the wetsuit, as this can cause permanent creases and affect its performance.

Instead, consider using a wetsuit hanger or storage bag to maintain its shape. Regularly inspect and maintain your wetsuit to ensure it stays in good condition for your next water sports adventure.

Avoid folding or creasing the wetsuit

To properly care for your wetsuit, it’s important to avoid folding or creasing it when drying. Folding or creasing can damage the neoprene material and lead to weak spots in the fabric.

Instead, hang your wetsuit up unfolded at the waistline inside out. This will help it dry evenly and maintain its shape for longer use. By avoiding folding or creasing, you’ll ensure that your wetsuit stays in top condition and ready for your next water adventure.

Consider using a wetsuit hanger or storage bag

To properly care for your wetsuit and keep it in top condition, consider using a wetsuit hanger or storage bag. These tools help to maintain the shape of your wetsuit while it dries, preventing unnecessary stretching or damage.

A wetsuit hanger allows you to hang your wetsuit upside down from its waistline, helping it dry faster and more evenly. On the other hand, a storage bag is great for when you need to store your wet wetsuit for longer periods.

It keeps the moisture contained while still allowing air circulation to prevent mildew and unpleasant odors. By using these accessories, you can ensure that your wetsuit stays in great shape and ready for your next aquatic adventure!

Regularly inspect and maintain your wetsuit

Regularly inspecting and maintaining your wetsuit is important to ensure its longevity and performance. After each use, take the time to carefully check for any signs of damage or wear, such as tears, holes, or loose stitching.

If you notice any issues, it’s best to address them promptly to prevent further damage. Additionally, make sure to clean your wetsuit properly by rinsing it with fresh water and using a mild detergent if necessary.

This helps remove saltwater, sand, and other debris that can degrade the fabric over time. By taking these steps regularly, you can keep your wetsuit in good condition and enjoy many more adventures in the water.

Conclusion

Properly drying your wetsuit is crucial for keeping it in good condition and maintaining its performance. By rinsing it with fresh water, hanging it in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources, and using additional tips like rolling it in a towel or turning it inside out, you can ensure that your wetsuit dries efficiently.

Storing your wetsuit properly in a cool, dry place is also important to prevent damage. Remember to regularly inspect and maintain your wetsuit for longevity. So go ahead, take care of your wetsuit after every use to enjoy many more adventures in the water!

FAQs

1. How long does it take for a wetsuit to dry?

The drying time of a wetsuit can vary depending on factors such as the thickness of the material and the surrounding temperature, but it usually takes around 24-48 hours.

2. Can I use a dryer or heater to speed up the drying process?

No, using a dryer or heater is not recommended as it can damage the wetsuit’s fabric and neoprene material. It’s best to let it air dry naturally in a shaded area.

3. Should I rinse my wetsuit before drying it?

Yes, rinsing your wetsuit with fresh water after each use helps remove saltwater, sand, and other debris that could cause damage or unpleasant odors. Hang it to dry afterward.

4. Is there any special care needed when storing a dried wetsuit?

To store your dried wetsuit properly, fold it neatly in half lengthwise and then roll tightly from one end to the other. Avoid folding along creases or leaving any sharp objects near it as they may puncture or damage the fabric over time.