How to Wash and Store a Wetsuit for Long Life

By Volcom® | Skate, Surf & Swimwear, Snowboarding Clothes ... | Published: 2026-10-17

Category: Tips & Care

Learn the correct steps to wash, dry, and store your wetsuit so neoprene stays flexible and lasts for seasons. Avoid common mistakes that ruin foam and seams.

Quick Answer

Rinse your wetsuit with fresh water immediately after each use, dry it away from direct sun, and store it flat or on a wide hanger in a cool, dark place. Avoid washing machines, dryers, and folding that creases the neoprene.

Why Proper Wetsuit Care Matters

Neoprene is a closed-cell foam that loses insulation and flexibility when exposed to salt, chlorine, UV rays, and heat. A few minutes of care after each surf or dive can double the life of your wetsuit, saving you money and keeping you warmer in the water.

The most common damage comes from improper drying and storage: hanging a wet suit by the shoulders stretches the neoprene, and folding it creates permanent creases that let cold water in. Understanding these weak points helps you avoid them.

Step-by-Step Wetsuit Care Routine

Rinse Immediately After Use: Fill a tub or bucket with fresh, cool water and submerge your wetsuit. Gently squeeze water through the neoprene to flush out salt, sand, and chlorine. Avoid hot water, which can break down the foam. Common mistake: leaving the suit in your car or bag. Salt and chlorine crystallize and damage the neoprene within hours.
Turn Inside Out and Rinse Again: Turn the wetsuit inside out and repeat the rinse. This cleans the side that touches your skin and removes sweat and oils that cause odor and fabric breakdown. Checkpoint: if you see any sand or grit trapped in the lining, keep rinsing until the water runs clear.
Dry Away from Sun and Heat: Lay the wetsuit flat on a clean towel or hang it over a thick, padded hanger (never a thin wire hanger). Dry it in the shade with good airflow. Direct sunlight and radiators degrade neoprene and glue. Common mistake: hanging by the shoulders on a narrow hanger stretches the neoprene permanently. Use a wide hanger or fold the suit over a drying rack.
Store Flat or on a Wide Hanger: Once completely dry, store the wetsuit flat in a drawer or on a shelf, or hang it on a wide, padded hanger in a closet. Avoid tight folds that create creases. Checkpoint: never store a damp wetsuit in a sealed bag. Mildew and odor will develop quickly.
Clean Deeply Only When Needed: Every few months, use a wetsuit-specific shampoo or a mild, non-detergent soap. Hand wash in cool water, rinse thoroughly, and dry as above. Harsh detergents strip the neoprene's oils and accelerate aging. Common mistake: using regular laundry detergent or bleach. These break down the neoprene and damage the seams.

Products That Help with Wetsuit Care

Men's Logo Stamp Long Sleeve Tee: The Men's Logo Stamp Long Sleeve Tee is a heavyweight, premium ring-spun cotton staple with a classic fit and clean crew neck. After your session, a soft, tagless interior print tee like this one is comfortable to change into and won't irritate damp skin. It's also a good base layer under a wetsuit on cooler days.