How to Wash your Wetsuit (and eliminate that funky smell)

Whether you surf, dive, swim, or sail, your wetsuit works hard to protect you from the elements. And just like any essential gear, it needs regular care to perform at its best.

Proper wetsuit maintenance not only extends the life of your gear but also keeps it smelling fresh, feeling comfortable, and functioning as it should. Salt, chlorine, sweat, body oils, and general grime can all damage neoprene over time if left untreated.

That’s where Nikwax Wetsuit Refresh comes in. Specially formulated to clean, deodorise, and condition neoprene, it’s the go-to wetsuit cleaner for water lovers across Australia.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Wetsuit

1. Rinse After Every Use
After each session, rinse your wetsuit thoroughly with cold or lukewarm fresh water to remove salt, sand, and chlorine. Avoid hot water, as it can reduce neoprene’s flexibility.

2. Mix the Cleaning Solution
Fill a bucket or tub with enough cold or lukewarm water to fully submerge your wetsuit. Add the correct amount of Nikwax Wetsuit Refresh, following the instructions on the bottle.

3. Soak the Wetsuit
Turn your wetsuit inside out and place it in the solution. Let it soak for around 30 minutes to break down dirt and contaminants.

4. Gently Agitate
While it soaks, gently move the wetsuit through the water to help release any trapped oils or residues.

5. Rinse Thoroughly
After soaking, rinse the wetsuit well with clean water to remove any remaining solution.

6. Dry Carefully
Turn the wetsuit right side out and hang it to dry in the shade. Use a wide hanger to maintain its shape and avoid creases. Never leave it in direct sunlight or near a heat source.

Why Use Nikwax Wetsuit Refresh?

• Deodorises: Tackles odours caused by salt, bacteria, and body oils
• Conditions: Maintains the softness and stretch of neoprene
• Extends Life: Helps prevent material breakdown for longer-lasting gear
• No Nasties: Nikwax products are safe for people and planet, and not harmful to our incredible oceans. 

By making Nikwax Wetsuit Refresh part of your regular care routine, you’re investing in the performance and longevity of your wetsuit. It's quick, easy, and environmentally conscious too.