A wetsuit that smells like a damp gym bag isn’t just a nuisance. It’s a signal that sweat, bacteria, and lake or ocean residue are breaking down the neoprene and the fabric lining. You can reverse the funk and keep your Blue70 suit in race-day shape with a consistent, simple care routine. Here’s what to do, step by step.
Rinse immediately after every swim
Salt, chlorine, and organic matter cling to your suit the moment you step out of the water. Rinse the wetsuit inside and out with cool, fresh water. A quick rinse immediately after every swim, followed by hanging the suit to dry completely, is the single most effective way to keep odor at bay and preserve the flexibility of your high-grade Yamamoto neoprene. Don’t use hot water; it can degrade the neoprene. Pay attention to the armpits, crotch, and any areas where the suit folds, as these spots trap moisture that feeds odor-causing bacteria. This rinse arrests the bacterial party before it gets loud.
Deep clean when the funk lingers
Even a disciplined rinse won’t stop every microbe. Once the smell sets in, fill a tub or large sink with cool water and add a capful of a mild wetsuit-specific cleaner. You can also use a gentle, additive-free shampoo or a small squirt of mild dish soap in a pinch. Submerge the suit, gently knead the neoprene for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear. Avoid scrubbing the exterior too aggressively. The smooth-skin coating on many swim-specific wetsuits is engineered to reduce drag, and harsh treatment can damage it.
Dry it completely before storage
Moisture is the engine of odor. After rinsing or deep cleaning, hang the wetsuit folded in half over a wide, padded hanger or a drying rack, out of direct sunlight. Never hang it by the neck or shoulders alone, because wet neoprene stretches under its own weight. Let it air-dry completely inside and out before you stow it away. A suit that goes damp into a gear bag or a dark closet will smell within hours.
What to avoid
Washing machines and dryers alter the structure of the foam and the bonded seams. Bleach, fabric softener, or strong detergents can delaminate the lining. Soaking a suit in vinegar or baking soda is a popular home remedy, but it’s not recommended. These can alter the pH balance inside the neoprene and compromise the suit’s flexibility over time. Stick with cool water and a cleaner made for wetsuits.
A Blue70 wetsuit is an investment in open-water comfort and speed. Caring for it with a rinse-and-dry discipline after every swim, plus an occasional deep clean, keeps the funk in check and extends its life. Next time you pull on your Helix or Reaction, you’ll smell nothing but the water ahead. Happy Swimming!
