Introduction: Why you must clean wetsuit after every swim
As a triathlon journalist and wetsuit-care expert, I frequently see avoidable damage and premature wear because athletes skip basic maintenance. To keep neoprene flexible, seals intact and buoyancy consistent, it’s essential to clean wetsuit components correctly. This guide explains practical, proven steps to clean wetsuit safely and efficiently so it performs race after race.
When to clean wetsuit
Rinse your suit immediately after every open-water session or race. A full, gentle wash is recommended weekly if you train frequently or after any session where the suit contacts sunscreen, salt, lake algae or freshwater contaminants. Routine cleaning prevents odor, zippers jamming and neoprene degradation.
What you’ll need
- Fresh water (hose or sink)
- Mild wetsuit shampoo or a gentle, neoprene-safe cleaner
- Soft sponge or cloth
- Wide padded hanger or dedicated wetsuit hanger
- Towel for blotting
- Small brush (optional, for zipper)
Step-by-step: How to clean wetsuit properly
Follow this sequence to protect seams and coatings while removing salt, chlorine and oils.
1. Rinse immediately
After exiting the water, rinse the exterior and interior of the suit thoroughly with fresh water. Flushing out salt, sand and organic material prevents long-term abrasion and staining. Turn the suit inside out to rinse the torso and legs, then flip it back to rinse the outer surface.
2. Soak and wash gently
Fill a tub or large sink with lukewarm water — never hot — and add a small amount of wetsuit shampoo or a mild, neoprene-safe soap. Submerge the suit and let it soak for 5–10 minutes. Use your hands or a soft sponge to gently agitate areas around the neck, cuffs and zipper. Avoid scrubbing vigorously; neoprene can be damaged by harsh friction.
3. Pay attention to the zipper and seals
Open the zipper and use a soft brush or cloth to clear debris from the teeth. If you see sand or grit, rinse until it’s removed. Apply a small amount of zipper lubricant if you regularly have trouble zipping. For glued seals, avoid pulling or stretching excessively while cleaning.
4. Rinse and remove excess water
Rinse the suit thoroughly with fresh water until soap is gone. Hold the suit by the shoulders or torso and gently squeeze water out — do not wring or twist, which can damage seams. Lay the suit flat on a towel and roll it up to absorb excess moisture.
5. Dry correctly
Hang the suit on a wide hanger in shade, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. UV and heat will degrade neoprene. If possible, hang the suit inside out to dry the thicker interior first, then flip after the interior is dry. Allow full drying before storing — trapped moisture encourages mold and odors.
Stain and odor management
For stubborn odors, a soak with a specialty wetsuit deodorizer or diluted white vinegar (one part vinegar to three parts water) can help; rinse well afterward. Avoid bleach, strong detergents or fabric softeners — these break down neoprene and reduce flexibility. For ink or sunscreen stains, spot-treat gently with a neoprene cleaner and soft cloth.
Storage and long-term care
- Store on a wide, shaped hanger or laid flat to avoid creases.
- Keep in a cool, dry place out of sunlight.
- Avoid folding the suit for long periods — repeated creasing weakens neoprene.
- Do not store in airtight bags while damp; allow full ventilation.
Repair and inspection
Regularly inspect seams, glued areas and thin spots, particularly around knees and shoulders. Small tears can be repaired with neoprene cement or a repair kit; larger damage is best handled by a professional repair service. Prompt repair extends life and maintains performance.
Practical tips from the field
- Pre-race: Keep a rinsed, dry suit in your kit to avoid last-minute surprises from hidden odors or sticky zippers.
- After training: Use a quick rinse after every session and a proper wash weekly.
- Travel: Pack your suit loosely and allow it to air out between sessions.
- Products: Choose products labeled for neoprene. Generic detergents may remove coatings and reduce buoyancy.
Where to learn more
For further reading on care routines and specific brand recommendations, look for resources and gear maintenance techniques that match your wetsuit model and training frequency. Consistency in routine, along with the right products, keeps your suit race-ready.
Conclusion
Learning how to clean wetsuit correctly is one of the simplest ways to protect your investment and preserve performance. Rinse after every swim, wash gently when needed, dry out of sunlight, and inspect regularly. These small steps, applied consistently, will extend the life of your wetsuit and keep it performing at its best for seasons to come.