The Wetsuit Maintenance Guide: How Often Dry Clean Suit?

Knowing the difference between our day-to-day suit and your wetsuit is sometimes not so easy. Both can make you perform better, both are usually black, and both should definitely be professionally cleaned when they start to smell weird! But that, at latest, is the point where the two differ in the most significant way. While your suit can be dropped off at the next best dry cleaner, your wetsuit has to be handled with much more care. How to wash a wetsuit and how to dry a wetsuit and how often you should dry clean a suit are questions we will answer for you in this article!

How Often Should Suits be Dry Cleaned?

For the question how often a wetsuit should be dry cleaned exist two answers – a short one and a long one. To make it short, the answer is NEVER! To explain it, you will have to delve a bit deeper into the world of wetsuit maintenance and material, how a wetsuit works and the way dry cleaning is being done.

Neoprene – A Material Made to Perform

Neoprene is a synthetic rubber known for its versatility, durability, and resilience, making it a go-to material in a wide range of applications, from wetsuits to industrial uses. Developed by DuPont in the 1930s, neoprene has since become a standout performer in extreme conditions, thanks to its unique properties.

The 5 key characteristics of neoprene are:

1. Water Resistance
   One of neoprene’s primary advantages is its excellent water resistance. This makes it ideal for products like wetsuits, where it insulates the body and prevents water absorption, helping to retain heat even in cold water. The closed-cell structure of neoprene creates tiny air pockets that add buoyancy and insulation, keeping the wearer warmer.

2. Thermal Insulation
   Neoprene’s ability to trap heat makes it perfect for thermal insulation in wetsuits and other cold-weather gear. Its insulating properties are a result of its dense, yet flexible, structure, which minimizes heat loss while allowing for freedom of movement.

3. Flexibility and Elasticity
   Despite its strength and durability, neoprene is highly flexible and elastic. This makes it comfortable to wear, as it stretches and conforms to the body’s shape, making it ideal for sports gear where flexibility and movement are essential.

4. Durability
   Neoprene is resistant to a variety of environmental factors, including UV rays, ozone, oils, and chemicals. This resilience makes it long-lasting even in harsh conditions, ensuring that it maintains its performance over time.

5. Buoyancy
   Neoprene is naturally buoyant, which makes it an excellent material for wetsuits and flotation devices. Its buoyancy adds an extra layer of safety for water sports enthusiasts, helping them stay afloat more easily.

While neoprene is a highly versatile and durable material, it does have some weaknesses. The biggest one amongst those is the vulnerability to certain chemicals. Although neoprene is resistant to many oils and chemicals, it can be degraded by some substances, such as strong acids, solvents, and certain hydrocarbons, which can weaken its structure.

How Does a Dry Clean Work?

Dry cleaning is a specialized cleaning process used for clothing and textiles that employs a solvent instead of water. The process begins with the collection and inspection of garments. 

Each item is carefully examined for stains, damage, or specific cleaning instructions. After this, tagging occurs, where each garment is assigned an identification tag, allowing it to be tracked throughout the cleaning process.

Next, the clothes may undergo pre-treatment, where specific stains are treated with appropriate solvents or chemicals. Then, the items are placed in a dry cleaning machine, which resembles a washing machine. 

Instead of water, a solvent—commonly perchloroethylene, or “perc”—is used. During the gentle washing cycle, the machine agitates the garments in the solvent, effectively removing dirt and stains. After cleaning, the solvent is drained and filtered to remove impurities.

Once cleaned, the garments proceed to the drying phase. Here, the solvent is removed, and the clothes are dried using warm air, allowing any remaining solvent to evaporate. After drying, the items are pressed, steamed, or ironed to remove wrinkles and restore their shape. Any necessary repairs or alterations may also be made during this stage.

Before returning the cleaned clothes to customers, a final inspection ensures that everything is clean and free of stains. Finally, the garments are either bagged or hung on racks for delivery.

To a discerning observer, a few clues may have already caught their attention.

Why Not to Dry Clean a Suit

Dry cleaning a wetsuit is generally not recommended for several reasons:

1. Damage from Chemicals

• Harsh Solvents: Dry cleaning uses chemicals like perchloroethylene that can damage the neoprene material used in wetsuits. These solvents can break down the rubber, leading to loss of flexibility and insulation properties.

2. Alteration of Fit

• Shrinking or Stretching: The cleaning process and drying methods can cause wetsuits to shrink or stretch, altering their fit and potentially compromising their performance in water.

3. Removal of Coatings

• Special Coatings: Many wetsuits have coatings or finishes that enhance their performance, such as water repellency or thermal insulation. Dry cleaning can strip away these important layers.

4. Water Absorption

• Inability to Clean Properly: Wetsuits are designed to work with water, and dry cleaning does not provide the thorough cleaning needed to remove salt, sand, or other residues. This can lead to odors and degradation over time.

5. Cost and Convenience

• Expense: Dry cleaning can be more expensive than simple hand washing. Given the relatively simple care requirements of a wetsuit, it’s often unnecessary to seek professional cleaning.

So as much as you love your wet- or drysuit – the delicate material neoprene is not made to be exposed to harsh chemicals and if you want to do something good for your wetsuit the next chapter will provide you with all the information you will need to establish the perfect maintenance routine for your water suit.

The Perfect Wetsuit Maintenance Routine

Regular cleaning, proper drying, and mindful storage all play a key role in keeping your wetsuit in top condition. With the right maintenance, your wetsuit will serve you well for many seasons.

How to Wash a Wetsuit Properly

Washing your wetsuit properly is vital for removing salt, sand, chlorine, and body oils that can degrade the neoprene over time. And honestly, it is no big deal – 5 minutes after each use and 10 minutes for a deeper cleaning session every now and then and your wetsuit will be thanking you.

1. Rinse After Every Use

• Why it’s important: Every time you use your wetsuit, it absorbs saltwater, sand, and other debris that can weaken the neoprene if left untreated.
• What to do: Immediately after use, rinse your wetsuit thoroughly with fresh, cold water. Turn it inside out to ensure both the interior and exterior are properly cleaned. Avoid hot water, as it can damage the neoprene’s elasticity.

2. Use a Mild Cleaner

• Cleaning solution: Every few uses or after extended wear, wash your wetsuit with a specialized wetsuit cleaner or a mild detergent. These are designed to be gentle on neoprene while removing stubborn oils and odors.
• How to wash: Fill a tub or large basin with cool water and add the wetsuit cleaner. Submerge the wetsuit fully and gently agitate the water to loosen dirt. Avoid scrubbing with brushes, as this can damage the fabric.
• Rinse thoroughly: Once cleaned, rinse your wetsuit again in fresh water to remove all soap residues.

3. Spot Clean if Necessary

• Dealing with stains: For tough stains (e.g., sunscreen or oil), gently use a soft sponge or cloth and a small amount of cleaner to target those areas. Be gentle to avoid damaging the material.

How to Dry a Wetsuit Properly

Drying your wetsuit properly is just as important as washing it. Improper drying can lead to neoprene damage, loss of flexibility, or bad odors.

1. Air Dry Out of Direct Sunlight

• Avoid UV rays: Direct sunlight can degrade neoprene, making it brittle and reducing its flexibility over time. Always dry your wetsuit in the shade or indoors.
• Proper hanging: Hang the wetsuit on a wide, thick hanger to avoid stretching the material. You can also drape it over a drying rack or a sturdy shower rod. Never use wire hangers, as they can deform the wetsuit.
• Start inside out: Begin by drying the wetsuit inside out to allow the interior to dry thoroughly, then turn it right-side out to finish drying the exterior.

2. Don’t Use a Dryer or Heat Sources

• No artificial heat: Never put your wetsuit in a dryer or expose it to heat sources like radiators or hairdryers. High heat can damage the neoprene’s structure, reducing its insulating properties and elasticity.

3. Allow Proper Ventilation

• Airflow is key: Ensure the drying area is well-ventilated to prevent mildew and odors from developing. Hanging the wetsuit in a breezy spot out of direct sunlight is ideal for faster drying.

Additional Tips: 4 Rules for a Happy Wetsuit

When it comes to keeping your wetsuit in top shape, a few extra precautions can go a long way. Follow these four essential tips to ensure your wetsuit stays comfortable, durable, and ready for every adventure.

1. Avoid Sharp Objects

• Prevent tears: Neoprene is tough but can be punctured or torn by sharp objects like fingernails, rocks, or Velcro. Always be mindful when putting on or taking off your wetsuit and avoid dragging it over rough surfaces.

2. Use a Plastic Hanger

• Right hanger: When hanging your wetsuit, use a thick, sturdy plastic hanger to avoid stretching the shoulders. You can also fold the wetsuit over the hanger at the waist to reduce strain on the material.

3. Don’t Fold for Long-Term Storage

• Store flat or hung: For long-term storage, hanging your wetsuit is best. If you need to fold it, avoid heavy creases that can cause cracks in the neoprene over time. Store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat.

4. Regularly Inspect for Damage

• Look for wear and tear: Check your wetsuit regularly for signs of damage like small tears, holes, or worn-out seams. Addressing these issues early can prevent them from becoming bigger problems.

When to Seek Professional Help?

Even with the best care, wetsuits inevitably experience wear and tear over time. Constant exposure to sun, salt, and sand can gradually break down the neoprene and may also lead to unpleasant odors. 

While it might be tempting to dream of that fresh, clean scent we associate with dry-cleaned clothes, unfortunately, this luxury is reserved for your business suit—not your wetsuit! If you need to find professional help, look for it in a surf shop, in the knowledge of surfer colleagues or trustworthy websites.

Here is an overview of what to do in certain situations:

1. Repairing Tears or Holes

• Small tears: Minor cuts or punctures can often be repaired at home with a neoprene repair kit, which typically includes neoprene adhesive and patches.
• Large damage: For larger tears, especially those around seams or zippers, it’s best to seek professional repair services. Professionals can expertly stitch and seal neoprene, ensuring the suit maintains its flexibility and water resistance.

2. Broken Zippers

• Zipper issues: A malfunctioning zipper can be difficult to fix on your own. If the zipper becomes stuck, separated, or broken, a professional can replace or repair it without causing further damage to the suit.

3. Worn-Out Seams

• Seam failure: Over time, the seams of your wetsuit may start to come apart due to stretching or heavy use. A professional can reseal or re-stitch the seams to restore the suit’s integrity.

4. Smelly Wetsuit

• Unpleasant odor: No wetsuit smells like fresh roses or mangoes, but if your cleaning routine isn’t cutting it and the odors have become unbearable, it’s time to explore other options. Check out your local surf shop for wetsuit-specific cleaners, conditioners, or helpful tips. They might have the right products or advice to help you tackle stubborn buildup and keep your wetsuit smelling fresher.

5. Wetsuit Rash

• Wetsuit rashes happen when the wetsuit thickness is off or the wetsuit doesn’t fit well in certain areas. It can also occur if sand and salt build up to a scratchy debris inside the wetsuit. 

You want to know how to avoid getting rashes in a wetsuit? Check out our informative Guide for wetsuit rashes to learn more!

Conclusion: Keep Your Wetsuit Clean – But Not Dry Clean

In summary, neither wetsuits nor drysuits should be dry cleaned. Instead, follow the best cleaning practices outlined above to ensure your gear stays in excellent condition and lasts for many adventures to come. Proper care not only enhances performance but also extends the life of your investment, allowing you to enjoy your time in the water without worry. If your wetsuit or drysuit has a stubborn stain, persistent odor, or significant damage, consider seeking professional help from a dive shop or specialized gear repair service. They can offer cleaning services that are safe for your specific type of suit and can also perform repairs if needed. 

FAQ – Most asked questions about how often dry clean suit: