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Maintaining Your Dive Suit: A Comprehensive Guide
Whether you are an experienced diver or just starting to explore the underwater world, proper care and maintenance of your dive suit are essential for its longevity and comfort. In this blog post, we will answer some frequent questions about cleaning, drying, and storing your wetsuit or drysuit.
How should I clean my wetsuit after use?
Cleaning your wetsuit is crucial to remove salt, sand, and other debris that can deteriorate the material over time. Rinse it thoroughly with fresh water after each dive to prevent salt crystals from forming. For stubborn stains or odors, you can use a wetsuit-specific cleaner or a mild, fragrance-free soap. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
How should I clean my drysuit after use?
It is essential to close the zipper and rinse the outside of your drysuit with fresh water to remove salt and contaminants. Rinse any of the inner surfaces that may have come into contact with saltwater, such as the neck and wrist seals. Ensure that any sand, dirt, or gravel is thoroughly washed away from the zipper’s teeth. Pay extra attention to the zipper and valves. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior, and if there are any stubborn stains, use a mild soap solution. Remember never to use harsh chemicals or bleach on your drysuit.
Can I hang my wetsuit or drysuit in the sun to dry?
While it’s tempting to let the sun work its magic, it is best to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. UV rays can deteriorate the neoprene or fabric and cause fading. Instead, hang your suit in a shaded, well-ventilated area to dry naturally.
How should I hang my wetsuit or drysuit?
Hang your suit by the shoulders, using a padded or wide hanger to prevent creasing or stretching. Avoid hanging your drysuit by the collar, as this can deform the neck seal. Another method commonly used is to hang over a bar at the waist to dry your wetsuit or drysuit before storing it away. Allow it to drip-dry completely before storing.
Should I use soap to clean my wetsuit or drysuit?
Yes, but be cautious. Use a mild, non-abrasive, and fragrance-free soap specifically designed for dive suits or wetsuits. Avoid using regular household detergents, as they may contain harsh chemicals that can damage the material.
Should I store my wetsuit inside out?
Storing your wetsuit inside out is not necessary and may cause unnecessary wear on the interior lining. Instead, fold it neatly or hang it as described earlier, and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
How should I care for my wetsuit zipper?
It is important to rinse both the wetsuit and the zippers with clean water after every use. This helps prevent the buildup of deposits, like salt, which can cause damage to the zipper slide and teeth, making them wear out faster. If necessary, you can use any commercially available product designed for lubricating plastic zippers to ensure smooth operation.
How should I care for my drysuit zipper?
Always inspect the zipper for any foreign material that may affect its ability to close and create a watertight seal. Before each dive, lubricate the zipper, and follow the instructions on the container of zipper lubricant supplied with your suit. Open and close the zipper a few times after the lubricant is applied to the zipper chain. The friction caused by the slider traveling over the teeth heats the lubricant causing it to flow into the teeth. It is important to avoid using aerosol or petroleum-based lubricants on the zipper of your drysuit because these products can damage both the zipper and the suit materials.
Should I leave my drysuit zipper open or closed?
When storing drysuits, those with plastic zippers should be closed, while those with metal zippers should be left completely open to ensure that they function properly and maintain their performance.
By following these care tips, you can ensure that your dive suit remains comfortable, durable, and ready for your next underwater adventure. Proper maintenance will not only extend its lifespan but also enhance your diving experience. Happy diving!
