Does your wetsuit stink? How about your neoprene booties, gloves or spray skirt? After a certain amount of active wear in the ocean, it’s bound to happen to all of us.
Instead of spending big bucks on a dedicated neoprene shampoo (which these days can be hard to find), try this cost-effective tip I received from a local dive shop: use the all-purpose household cleaner, Simple Green.
What is Simple Green?
Simple Green is an all-purpose cleaner that removes dirt, grease and stains on carpet, fabric, equipment and more. Best of all, it’s biodegradable, non-toxic, child- and pet-safe, and rated as a “Safer Choice” by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
How do I use it to wash my wetsuit?
To clean your neoprene, pour a small amount into a tub or bin of water, and let your items soak for 10-20 minutes. You want to add enough Simple Green to provide cleaning action, but not enough that soap suds form. No need to rinse your wetsuit after it’s done soaking. Just hang it up to drip dry, preferably in a warm location where it will dry quicker.
User approved!
The local scuba shop tells me they wash all their neoprene this way.
I washed my suit the other day using Simple Green and – presto – it no longer smells. Actually, it does smell. It smells CLEAN!! 🙂
Two thumbs up for this cost-effective, environmentally sensitive neoprene cleaning solution!
Crosscurrents Kayak 