Can You Tumble Dry Wetsuit?

Can you tumble dry wetsuit? No, don't do it!

Every surfer has thought about tumbling drying their wetsuit, but what you should know is if you tumble dry wetsuit it can cause damage to the material. 

Let’s get into it!

Should You Tumble Dry Wetsuit?

No. Avoid tumble drying your wetsuit, as the heat and mechanical action can damage the neoprene material whilst compromising performance and longevity. 

Instead use a wetsuit hanger and dry your wetsuit naturally. 

Can You Tumble Dry Wetsuit 

Do Not Tumble Dry Wetsuit - To tumble dry wetsuit is generally not recommended. The heat and mechanical action of a tumble dryer can damage the neoprene material, zippers, and other components of the wetsuit. High temperatures can cause the neoprene to lose its flexibility and degrade over time. Additionally, the constant tumbling can stress seams and potentially lead to delamination.

To maintain the integrity and longevity of your wetsuit, it's best to air dry it in a well-ventilated area. You should hang your wetsuit on a wide, padded hanger, ensuring proper airflow and preserving the suit's shape. Avoiding tumble drying is a key practice in wetsuit care to ensure it continues to provide effective insulation and comfort in the water.

Why you should not tumble dry wetsuit?

• Material Damage: High heat in tumble dryers can cause neoprene material to lose flexibility and degrade.
• Seam and Zipper Stress: Mechanical action in tumble dryers can stress seams and zippers, leading to potential damage.
• Shortened Lifespan: Tumble drying may contribute to a shorter overall lifespan of the wetsuit, affecting its durability over time.
• Performance Compromise: The combination of heat and mechanical stress can compromise the wetsuit's insulation and performance in the water.
• Manufacturer Disapproval: Tumble drying often contradicts manufacturer recommendations, risking voided warranties and reduced support.

Best Practices To Dry Wetsuit 

Best practices for drying your wetsuit involve a combination of careful consideration and proper techniques to ensure its longevity and continued effectiveness. After use, promptly rinse the wetsuit with fresh water to remove salt and debris, a fundamental step in maintaining its material integrity.

When hanging the wetsuit, opt for a wide, padded hanger, supporting it at the waist to prevent unnecessary stretching and maintaining its natural shape. 

Choose a well-ventilated area for drying, as good air circulation expedites moisture evaporation, reducing the risk of mildew and unpleasant odours. Turning the wetsuit inside out exposes both surfaces to air, facilitating thorough drying.

Additionally, avoid direct sunlight, especially for prolonged periods, as it can lead to material damage. Following these best practices ensures your wetsuit remains in top condition, providing optimal comfort and performance in the water.

How To Make a Wetsuit Last Longer 

Rinse Thoroughly After Each Use: Immediately rinse your wetsuit with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and other debris, preventing potential damage and maintaining material integrity.

Turn Inside Out for Effective Drying: After rinsing, turn the wetsuit inside out before hanging to ensure both surfaces dry thoroughly, preventing moisture retention and the growth of mould.

Use a Wide, Padded Hanger: Choose a hanger specifically designed for wetsuits to preserve their shape and prevent unnecessary stress on the material, especially at the shoulders.

Hang in a Well-Ventilated Area: Opt for a location with good air circulation to expedite drying and minimise the risk of mildew, ensuring your wetsuit stays fresh and odour-free.

Avoid Direct Sunlight: When drying outdoors, choose a shaded spot or cover the wetsuit with a light-coloured towel to prevent prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, which can cause material damage.

Follow Manufacturer's Care Guidelines: Adhere to the care instructions provided by the wetsuit manufacturer, including any specific recommendations for washing, drying, and storage.

Rotate Between Multiple Suits: If possible, rotate between multiple wetsuits to allow each one to fully dry between uses, reducing wear and tear on a single suit.

Repair Tears and Snags Promptly: Address any tears or snags immediately using wetsuit repair kits to prevent them from worsening and compromising the overall integrity of the wetsuit.

Avoid Tumble Drying: Refrain from tumble drying your wetsuit, as the heat and mechanical action can damage the neoprene material, zippers, and seams.

Store Properly When Not in Use: Store your wetsuit in a cool, dry place, avoiding exposure to direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, and hang it using a wide hanger to maintain its shape during storage.

Summing It Up: What To Do Now

Okay now you know not to tumble dry wetsuit, it's time to get that wetsuit on a hanger and let it dry!

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