Proper Wetsuit Storage and Maintenance Steps

Once the colder months roll around, we tend to step back from open water swimming. That’s usually when our kit gets tucked away until spring. But how we care for our gear now affects how ready it’ll be when the water warms up again. A swimming wetsuit isn’t something we want to leave twisted in a heap or hanging in the wrong spot for months. Getting it cleaned, dried, and stored properly can make a big difference in how long it holds its shape, comfort, and function.

It's easy to think, “I’ll deal with that later,” once the season’s done. We’ve all been there, drying off after a cold swim and just wanting to chuck everything in a bag and get warm. But if the wetsuit goes unchecked for too long, small problems become bigger ones. Here’s how we keep ours in good form through winter break and beyond.

Rinse It Right After Every Swim

Before putting anything away, rinse it thoroughly. Saltwater, lake residue, and even pool chlorine all cling to the fabric and break down the neoprene if they’re left sitting too long.

• Stick with fresh, cool water. Hot water can mess with the materials, and any harsh detergents will do more harm than good.

• Be sure to rinse everywhere. That means paying close attention to seams, zips, ankles, and cuffs where bits of grit often get trapped.

• Flip the suit inside out while rinsing, especially after lake swims where tiny debris gets embedded in the lining.

Even if it's the last swim of the year, taking a few minutes now saves you from mouldy smells and stiff fabric later.

ZONE3’s wetsuit care guide recommends rinsing your suit with cold water after every use and never using bleach or washing powder to preserve the durability of the neoprene.

Dry It Carefully and Fully

Once rinsed, drying it right is just as important. Damp wetsuits are slow to dry, especially in cooler weather, but rushing the process can cause damage.

• Always start by turning your wetsuit inside out. That’s the part that touches your skin and tends to stay damper.

• Once that side is dry, flip it back so the outside can breathe. This step stops mildew from forming and keeps both layers balanced.

• Use a wide plastic hanger or lay it flat on a clean surface. Never hang it from the neck or thin metal hangers, which can stretch or tear the shoulders.

• Keep it away from heaters, radiators, or direct sunlight. Heat can cause cracking or fading over time.

It might take longer in the winter months, but letting it dry properly means fewer surprises next time you pull it out.

ZONE3's experts suggest hanging your wetsuit on a broad hanger and drying it in a shaded, well-ventilated spot to avoid UV damage and brittle neoprene.

Store It the Smart Way During Winter

Now that it’s clean and dry, storage is the next step. Folding a wetsuit into sharp creases or storing it in a crumpled bag through the off-season can ruin the fit and weaken key points.

• If there’s space, hang it up on a wide, rounded hanger. Some people use thick coat hangers or even towel bars to support the shoulder structure.

• Flat storage also works well. Just be sure the spot is clean, cool, and out of direct sunlight.

• Avoid garages or lofts where dampness can settle or temperatures shift too much from day to night.

Even if it seems like a quick job now, long-term folds and pressure points can lead to permanent marks or tears come springtime.

ZONE3 recommends storing your suit in a dry, temperature-stable room and using a wetsuit bag if transporting or storing it for months.

Watch for Damaged Areas Over Time

A good wetsuit can last through many seasons, but the stress of use builds up. We’ve found that checking it over before packing it away can save time and money later.

• Look for small cuts, stretched areas, or seams that seem loose. These tend to appear first on knees, zips, and cuffs.

• Flex the arms and legs slightly to see how the material responds. If it feels crunchy or overly soft, those spots may be starting to change.

• Don’t try glue or stitching on your own unless you’re certain about what you’re doing. Bad repairs can spread damage or make things worse.

Regular inspections let us catch trouble early, and it's better to do that now than during your first swim next season.

Try Not to Rush Putting It On or Off

Wetsuits have a specific way they want to move. When we rush, especially with cold hands or when the suit is still damp, the fabric gets pulled in the wrong ways.

• Take your time, especially around the lower legs and forearms where tightness is common.

• Use your fingertips, not nails. Wearing gloves or using a towel around your hands when pulling up can help avoid little rips or scratches.

• Avoid tugging on thin areas like the neck or cuffs, as those stretch out quickly if stressed too often.

The material is flexible, but it has limits. Getting into it mindfully means fewer tears and keeps fit consistent swim after swim.

Keep It Ready for Next Season

We all look forward to the first warm-weather swim of the year. Getting your swimming wetsuit sorted now means less hassle when that moment comes. It feels much better pulling out a suit that still fits right, smells clean, and doesn’t need quick fixes before use.

Keeping up with rinsing, drying, and smart storage adds months, or even years, to the life of your gear. Instead of reacting to issues in spring, get ahead this winter and take a bit more care now. Come next season, you’ll be glad you did.

Noticing signs of wear or simply thinking your gear could use an upgrade before next season? Now’s the perfect moment to explore a new swimming wetsuit. Having a well-fitting suit ready ensures you’re set for that first warm swim. At ZONE3, we design our wetsuits to deliver reliable comfort and performance throughout your training. Whether racing or practising in open water, the right gear builds confidence. Not sure which option suits you best? Reach out and our team will help you find the ideal fit.