Diving is an expensive hobby or profession. You have to invest in good diving clothes to ensure it protects you while you are below sea level. The thought of buying or having this investment makes us doubt it because of how expensive it is. Well, you can get your money’s worth if you can make your clothes last longer.
Taking care of your clothes to last longer is knowing how to wash them properly. There is one thing you should know about washing your diving clothes: do not bring them to the laundry service. Diving clothes are not safe in washers, dryers, or with other garments.
Follow these steps to keep your clothes in good condition.
Soak diving clothes
As soon as you remove your wetsuit, presoak it in cold water. Mix a mild solution of wetsuit shampoo and baking soda in the cold water. Choose a mild wetsuit shampoo. Do not use other laundry detergents, it will damage the fabrics of the diving clothes.
Soak the clothes for 30 minutes. Turn the suit inside out and soak the other side for another 30 minutes.
Gently scrub diving clothes
While you are soaking your clothes, gently pull the zipper up and down. This will dislodge any dirt on the zipper. Get a soft-bristled brush and scrub the Velcro patches on the wetsuit to remove any dirt, sand, or debris.
Rinse your clothes thoroughly.
Give your clothes a thorough rinse. Do this inside out to ensure that the cleaning product is removed.
Air dry diving clothes
Do not put your clothes in the dryer, the heat will damage their fabrics. Air dry your wetsuit or lay it flat on a surface and let it dry. Do not forget to turn the clothes inside out to ensure its inner part also dries.
Inspect diving clothes before wearing them again
After your clothes is completely dried, inspect for any gouge or tear, especially along its seams. If you notice a small tear, resew it with heavy polyester thread, or bring your wetsuit to an expert to ensure it is repaired properly.
Store the wetsuit properly
Storing your diving clothes properly is included in how to take care of it properly. You can hang the wetsuit inside out on a flat hanger, or fold it loosely. Ensure to keep your wetsuit in storage at a consistent temperature.
Besides the clothes, do not forget to wash your other diving equipment. Read the ways how you can properly care for your mask and buoyancy control device. It is important to know the ways since salt water can damage your equipment.
Final Takeaway
Investing in diving clothes is a great help in protecting yourself while enjoying the deep ocean. It may be expensive, but you can always make it worthwhile by taking care of it. Remember, your clothes are not safe in washers or dryers. Hence, ensure it is not included in the laundry bag for laundry delivery. Handwash your clothes at home.
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