For a watersports enthusiast such as a surfer or diver, a warming wetsuit would be an essential part of his gear. Exposure to elements such as salt water, sand and UV radiation can degrade a wetsuit’s materials over time. Therefore, knowing how to care for a wetsuit and maintaining it properly can significantly extend its life.
Here is a detailed guide on how to keep your wetsuit in good condition.
How to Maintain a Wetsuit
How to Put a Wetsuit On Correctly
- Caring for your wetsuit begins the moment you start putting it on. Handle it carefully so that you don’t stretch or tear the material.
- Be sure that there are no sharp objects that could snag the fabric.
- Be careful with the zipper to avoid breakage.
- Remove your wetsuit promptly after leaving the water to avoid abrasive sand drying and sticking to it, as it could be difficult to remove later.
Cleaning Your Wetsuit
Rinse your wetsuit with fresh, cold water as soon as possible after every use. Residues such as salt and sand could damage the neoprene so this step is important. Avoid using hot water and harsh detergents as these could break down the wetsuit’s materials.
To give your wetsuit a thorough cleaning, you could occasionally use a special wetsuit shampoo to get rid of bacteria and odours.
How to Dry a Wetsuit
After washing or rinsing your wetsuit, turn it inside out and hang or lay it flat in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Once it is completely dry, it’s time to put it away.
How to Store a Dry Wetsuit
It would be best to store your wetsuit in a cool, dry place. To hang it, use a wide hanger to maintain the suit’s shape and avoid creases. Folding or compressing the wetsuit could damage the neoprene and cause permanent creases. If you have to fold it for travel, fold it minimally and be sure to unpack it as soon as possible.
When to Replace a Wetsuit
How to care for a wetsuit includes checking it regularly for signs of wear and tear. Look out for thinning material, damaged seams or tears. If your wetsuit seems to be less insulating or starts to lose its elasticity, it might be time to consider replacing it.
Paddleboarder Image by Werner Moser from Pixabay
How to Fix a Torn Wetsuit in 7 Easy Steps
Finding a tear in your wetsuit could put a damper on your aquatic adventure. However, repairing it might not be as bad as you think. Here’s a step-by-step guide for getting it back in shape:
- Assess the damage: Lay your wetsuit flat and determine the extent of the tear. A small tear could be repaired on the spot or at home, while a more serious one might need a professional repair job.
- To repair on your own, you’ll require a special wetsuit adhesive. Regular household adhesives or tapes might further damage the neoprene material of your wetsuit.
- Ensure that the damaged area is clean and completely dry; any moisture or dirt can prevent the adhesive from bonding properly.
- Carefully apply the adhesive to the edges of the tear; use a minimal amount to prevent stiffness once it dries. With certain adhesives you need to wait until it becomes tacky before pressing the edges together.
- Gently press the edges of the tear together so that you get a tight seal. Any bubbles or excess glue can be smoothed away with a plastic card or similar flat object.
- Allow some time for the adhesive to cure, according to the manufacturer’s instructions; it might require several hours.
- Once the adhesive has fully cured, gently stretch the area where the repair is to ensure the seal holds. If it does, your wetsuit will be ready for some more watersports.
To avoid future tears or other damage to your wetsuit, always handle it with care, avoid sharp objects and follow good wetsuit maintenance practices.
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