Sand can damage your wetsuit by wearing down the neoprene, causing tears, and reducing its lifespan. To keep your wetsuit sand-free and in great shape:
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Prevention Tips:
- Use a changing mat to avoid direct contact with sand.
- Change on solid surfaces like concrete or grass instead of sandy areas.
- Keep your wetsuit off the ground by using benches or your car’s tailgate.
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Cleaning Tips:
- Rinse your wetsuit with cool, fresh water immediately after surfing.
- For stubborn sand, soak it in cool water, hand wash with a wetsuit cleaner, and rinse thoroughly.
- Dry inside out in the shade using a wide hanger to prevent stretching.
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Tools You’ll Need:
- Portable rinse kits (e.g., RinseKit PRO) for quick cleaning.
- Wetsuit bags and changing mats to protect your gear during transport and storage.
How to wash a wetsuit properly, and other tips for better wetsuit care
How to Prevent Sand from Getting on Your Wetsuit
Keeping sand off your wetsuit is much easier than trying to clean it off later. A few simple steps before and during your surf session can help protect your gear and make it last longer.
Use a Changing Mat
A waterproof changing mat with a sand-resistant design is a great way to shield your wetsuit. Lay it out on a flat surface and keep your wetsuit on the mat while changing. This limits how much sand comes into contact with your gear.
Choose the Right Spot to Change
Where you decide to change can make a big difference. Opt for solid surfaces like concrete, wooden walkways, or grassy areas. If you’re at a sandy beach, find a wind-sheltered spot or use your mat. You can also place your gear on a bench or your car’s tailgate to keep it off the ground.
Experts note that frequent exposure to sand can wear down the neoprene in your wetsuit, shortening its lifespan [1]. Even with these steps, some sand might still sneak in - so knowing how to clean your wetsuit afterward is key.
How to Clean Sand Off Your Wetsuit After Surfing
Rinse Your Wetsuit Right After Surfing
As soon as you're done surfing, rinse your wetsuit with cool, fresh water. This helps wash away sand and salt before they settle into the neoprene. Flip the wetsuit inside out to reach areas where sand tends to stick, like the ankles, wrists, and neck seals. Quick rinsing keeps the material flexible and prevents unnecessary wear.
Steps for Deep Cleaning Your Wetsuit
If a simple rinse doesn’t cut it, follow these steps for a deeper clean to get rid of stubborn sand and keep your wetsuit in great shape:
- Initial Soak: Let your wetsuit soak in cool water for 15–20 minutes. This helps loosen any sand trapped in seams or folds.
- Hand Wash: Use a wetsuit cleaner or a mild soap. Avoid hot water or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the neoprene. Pay special attention to seams and folds where sand tends to hide.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse with cool water until all soap and sand are completely gone.
- Dry Properly: Hang your wetsuit inside out in the shade on a wide hanger to keep its shape. Direct sunlight can weaken the material, so avoid it.
| Mistake | Why It's Harmful | Better Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Using hot water | Weakens the neoprene | Stick to cool water |
| Skipping inside-out rinse | Leaves sand trapped inside | Always rinse both sides |
| Hanging by shoulders | Stretches the material | Use a wide hanger or fold |
| Sun drying | Degrades the neoprene | Dry in a shaded area |
Rinse your wetsuit after every surf session to prevent sand buildup and maintain its durability. When deeper cleaning is needed, these steps and tools will make the process easier and keep your gear in top shape.
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Best Tools and Gear to Keep Wetsuits Sand-Free
Portable Rinse Kits for Easy Cleaning
Portable rinse kits make cleaning wetsuits a breeze by offering pressurized water to wash away sand effectively. For instance, the RinseKit PRO delivers up to 3 minutes of pressurized water - perfect for a thorough rinse right at the beach. When choosing a rinse kit, keep these factors in mind:
| Feature | Importance | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Water Pressure | Ensures effective cleaning | Look for at least 2 minutes of steady pressure |
| Tank Capacity | Impacts cleaning duration | A minimum of 2 gallons is ideal for a full rinse |
| Portability | Makes transport easier | Opt for lightweight kits with a sturdy handle |
| Construction | Affects durability | Choose UV-resistant, marine-grade materials |
Wetsuit Bags and Changing Mats
Wetsuit bags, such as the Surf Banana Bag ($29.95), are designed with waterproof, sand-resistant materials, making them perfect for transporting and protecting your wetsuit. Features like secure straps and a shoulder strap make carrying your gear simple and mess-free.
Pairing a wetsuit bag with a cleaner like Nikwax Tech Wash offers added benefits. This combo keeps your wetsuit flexible, maintains its insulation, and minimizes sand-related wear and tear.
Pro Tip: Stash your rinse kits and mats in your car for easy access, so you’re always ready to care for your wetsuit on the go.
With the right tools, keeping your wetsuit in top shape is straightforward and hassle-free.
Tips to Keep Your Wetsuit in Good Shape Over Time
Clean Your Wetsuit Regularly
Keeping your wetsuit in top condition means regular cleaning. After every surf session, rinse it thoroughly with fresh water to remove salt, which can harm neoprene over time. Make it a habit to rinse it daily, hand wash it weekly, and give it a deeper clean every couple of months using a cleaner made specifically for wetsuits.
Use the Right Cleaners for Your Wetsuit
Choosing the right cleaning products is key to extending your wetsuit's lifespan. Regular detergents can break down neoprene, causing it to wear out faster. Instead, go for cleaners designed specifically for wetsuits.
| Cleaner Type | Purpose | How Often to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Wetsuit Shampoo | Keeps neoprene flexible | Regular cleaning |
| Disinfectant | Eliminates odors, bacteria | Once a month |
| Salt Remover | Protects against salt damage | After ocean use |
Store Your Wetsuit the Right Way
Proper storage is just as important as cleaning. Always store your wetsuit in a cool, dry, and shaded area. Saltwater can leave neoprene stiff and smelly, so make sure it’s completely dry before putting it away to avoid mold. Use a wide hanger and hang it by the waist in a ventilated space, keeping it out of direct sunlight and away from heat.
"Regular cleaning and proper storage can help maintain the wetsuit's flexibility and prevent damage[2]. Saltwater mixed with neoprene can leave the wetsuit stiff and smelly, and small salt crystals can form, damaging the neoprene fabric[2]."
Conclusion
Keeping your wetsuit free from sand is key to ensuring comfort, preserving its durability, and maintaining its performance. With a simple care routine, you can minimize sand buildup and protect your surf gear for the long haul.
Start by using practical tools like changing mats and wetsuit bags to prevent sand from sticking to your suit. Rinsing your wetsuit right after each session is another effective way to stop salt and sand from causing damage. For example, a changing mat like the Banana Bag ($29.95) is a great option to keep sand off your wetsuit during gear changes.
Here’s a quick breakdown of helpful tools for wetsuit care:
| Tool | Purpose | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Changing Mat/Bag | Keeps sand off your wetsuit | During changes and transport |
| Rinse Kit | Quick cleaning solution | Right after surfing |
To get the most out of your wetsuit, stick to a care routine that includes proper storage and occasional deep cleaning with products made specifically for wetsuits. With the right approach and tools, your wetsuit will stay sand-free, last longer, and maintain its flexibility for many surf sessions ahead.
FAQs
How do you get sand out of a wetsuit?
To get rid of sand, rinse your wetsuit with cold water, paying extra attention to seams and zippers where sand tends to collect. Turn the wetsuit inside out to access hidden areas, and use a soft brush for stubborn spots, especially near zippers. Portable rinse kits, like the RinseKit PRO, can make this process simpler when you're at the beach.
If your wetsuit is particularly sandy, soaking it briefly in cool water can help loosen trapped particles before rinsing. Be gentle during cleaning to avoid damaging the neoprene or stitching.
Does sand get in wetsuits?
Yes, sand often finds its way into wetsuits during surfing or when changing on the beach. It tends to accumulate in seams, zippers, and the neoprene, which can lead to micro-tears and weakened stitching over time.
To minimize this, use a changing mat to keep your wetsuit off the sand, rinse it thoroughly after each use, and clean zippers regularly to prevent buildup. These simple steps, along with proper care, can help protect your wetsuit and extend its lifespan.
