Tips On Extending the Life of Your Wetsuit
Wetsuits aren’t easy to come by. Your average wetsuit costs around $150, and because of that, it should be considered something that you should take care of. This will save you money and getting fitted for a new wetsuit. In this blog, we are going to go in-depth on different ways you can extend your wetsuit’s life with varying tips of care.
Minimize Exposure to Sunlight
Wetsuits are made of neoprene, and neoprene is sensitive to UV sunlight and heat. When you store your wetsuit, try not to keep it outside as it will dry up, and because neoprene is a synthetic porous rubber subject to decomposing, this will only decrease your wetsuit’s life. Additionally, leaving your wetsuit out in the sun will only enhance that rotten odor from the sea.
Instead, store your wetsuit in a cool, dark location, preferably on a hanger. This hanger should be strong enough to hold your wetsuit, of course, but it should also be able to distribute the weight from the shoulders evenly. Washing your wetsuit with Pau Pilau’s wetsuit cleaner will help get rid of the smell while it dries naturally.
Clean Your Wetsuit After Every Use
Not cleaning your wetsuit can significantly reduce your wetsuit’s lifespan. This is due to its porous elastic properties, which allows environmental pollutants to easily penetrate the material. These materials can slowly deteriorate the neoprene and not only make your wetsuit smell, but also slowly deteriorate the wetsuit’s structural integrity.
As we recommended in the last tip, using a reliable wetsuit cleaner, like Pau Pilau, after you use your wetsuit will digest these harmful microcosms. Pau Pilau’s all-natural wetsuit cleaner will digest these microorganisms while also leaving a fresh lemon scent.
Check for Sharp Edges and Corners While Cleaning Your Wetsuit
Neoprene is subject to cuts and abrasions, and even though it is elastic, it is much more subject to tears than most fabrics. When you do clean your wetsuit, pay special attention to your wetsuit to avoid abrasive objects. For example, something as simple as your fingernail or a branch from a tree can damage your wetsuit and make it less effective.
Do NOT Fold Your Wetsuit
When you get your first wetsuit, the number one rule you will often hear is to not fold your wetsuit. Folding your wetsuit, especially when dry, will cause it to crack. Although, you are able to roll it, just be sure to roll it with the zipper to the outside.
Take Care of Your Zippers
Speaking of zippers, keep them clean and grit-free as much as possible. We recommend lubricating fluids as they are suitable to use. Additionally, when you do store your wetsuit, do so with the zipper open. This will allow more air into your wetsuit, speeding up the drying process.
Shop Pau Pilau
Pau Pilau is dedicated to providing all of the water adventurers out there with a reliable, all-natural cleaning solution for wetsuits. When using Pau Pilau it not only removes the odor causing material but it adds moisture back into the neoprene bring back it elasticity and soft feel. You can find Pau Pilau at your local surf shop, or you can browse our different bottle sizes here. If you have any questions, feel free to contact our friendly team here!