How to Properly Clean and Care for Your Scuba Gear

 

Taking care of your scuba gear isn’t just about keeping it looking good—it’s about ensuring its longevity and performance on every dive. Whether you own your gear or are renting it, proper cleaning can make all the difference in how it performs and how long it lasts. Let’s dive into how to clean your wetsuit, regulator, BCD, and more!

 


Exposure Gear: Wetsuits, Boots, Gloves, Vests & Hoods

Your exposure gear, such as wetsuits, gloves, boots, and hoods, requires special attention after each dive to keep it in good shape and smelling fresh. Here’s how to clean it properly:

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process:

  1. Undo all zippers and Velcro on your gear to allow for a thorough clean.
  2. Soak in fresh, cold, or lukewarm water (avoid hot water—it can cause neoprene to lose its flexibility).
  3. Use a mild cleaning solution, such as baking soda, mild dish soap, or wetsuit shampoo.
  4. Gently scrub zippers and Velcro patches with a toothbrush, working the zipper up and down to remove any dirt.
  5. Let your gear soak for about 30 minutes. For wetsuits, turn them inside out and let them soak for an additional 30 minutes.
  6. Hang your gear to dry on thick hangers with the zippers open, ideally in a well-ventilated, shaded area (avoid direct sunlight to prevent damage).

Pro Tip: Rinse your gear as soon as you can after each dive to prevent saltwater, chlorine, or dirt from setting in and causing damage or odor!

 


Regulators: Keeping Your Breathing Gear in Top Condition

Your regulator is arguably one of the most critical pieces of scuba gear. Whether you’re diving in saltwater or a pool, it’s essential to rinse your regulator thoroughly to avoid corrosion and buildup from salt, chlorine, or other harmful particles.

How to Clean Your Regulator:

  1. Ensure the dust cap is dry and secured over the first stage inlet before rinsing. Remember, the dust cap is watertight—not waterproof—so avoid submerging it.
  2. Rinse your regulator in fresh, lukewarm water to help break down any materials that could cause corrosion. Never use hot water.
  3. Press the purge button on your second stage while rinsing to allow water to flush through.
  4. Allow the regulator to air dry completely before storing it, hanging it in a cool, dry area.

Pro Tip: Regular maintenance is key. Even if you’ve only been diving in a pool, chlorine can cause as much damage as saltwater if left untreated!

 


Buoyancy Control Device (BCD): Keeping Your Lifeline Clean

A clean BCD is essential for maintaining its functionality and longevity. Here’s how to ensure yours stays in top shape after every dive.

Cleaning Your BCD:

  1. Dump any remaining water from your BCD through the rear dump valve or by holding it upside down and pressing the deflator button.
  2. Rinse the outside of your BCD thoroughly, paying special attention to the folds, pockets, buckles, and Velcro. Run a hose over the entire BCD, or soak it in a fresh rinse bucket.
  3. Work all the buttons on your BCD—inflator, deflator, dump valves—to make sure no salt or debris gets stuck inside.
  4. Fill the inner bladder with fresh water by running water down the inflator hose. Swish the water around inside, and then dump it out.
  5. Orally inflate the BCD and hang it up to dry on a BCD hanger in a cool, shaded area.

Pro Tip: Rinse your BCD thoroughly after each dive, and avoid storing it in direct sunlight to prevent UV damage!

 


Final Thoughts: Why Cleaning Your Gear is So Important

Cleaning your scuba gear after every dive isn’t just about keeping it looking and smelling fresh—it’s about maintaining its functionality and safety for every underwater adventure. A clean wetsuit stays flexible, a well-maintained regulator gives you peace of mind, and a properly rinsed BCD ensures you’ll stay buoyant and in control.

At Blue Holic Scuba, we make sure all of our rental gear is cleaned and maintained to the highest standard. Whether you’re diving with your own gear or renting from us, don’t forget to follow these simple cleaning steps to get the most out of your gear—and your dive experience!

 


Ready for Your Next Adventure?

Join us at Blue Holic Scuba for more tips, advice, and dive experiences! If you need help with your gear or want to upgrade to your own set, visit our shop or reach out to us today.