A wetsuit is your “second skin” when it comes to warmth and comfort in cold and windy conditions. More than that, it also saves your skin from the sun as you ride the waves in the ocean. If you’re thinking of a good wetsuit to purchase, you might need to invest more of your hard-earned money.
Therefore, taking care of wetsuits is not like your everyday laundry work. More so, rinsing it with fresh water and hanging it out to dry is not the best way to go. If you want to have a wetsuit that lasts for a long time, there are various wetsuit shampoos and cleaner brands to choose from.
A good wetsuit cleaner is a gentle cleanser specifically formulated to remove salt, sand, bacteria, and all micro-organisms without damaging neoprene.
With these in mind, we made a list of the best-reviewed wetsuit cleaners in the market.
Table of Contents
Top 9 Best Wetsuit Cleaners Reviewed
1.Slosh Wetsuit Shampoo & Conditioner by JAWS – Best Overall
2.IMPRESA [32 Washes] Wetsuit Soap Cleaner Shampoo – Best for Deep Cleaning
3.O’NEILL Mens Cleaner Wetsuits – Best for O’Neill Wetsuits
4.Pau Pilau Wetsuit Cleaner and Conditioner – Best for Odor Removal
5.Wetsuit Cleaner and Conditioner by O’Neill
6.Nikwax Wetsuit Refresh – Best for Conditioning
7.GEAR AID Zipper Cleaner and Lubricant – Best for Zippers
8.Pau Pilau Wetsuit Cleaner and Conditioner – Best for Regular Use
9.Seavenger Wetsuit Odor Remover – Best for Fresh Scent
#1. Slosh Wetsuit Shampoo & Conditioner by JAWS – Best Overall
Specifications:
- Size / Weight: 4.8 ounces
- Material: Lycra and Neoprene
- Package Color: Yellow Orange, Gold
- Sport Type: swimming, waterski, scuba diving, marine, and hiking
- Available in: 30 ml (Travel Size) and 118 ml
The Slosh Wetsuit Shampoo & Conditioner by JAWS is considered one of the most unique wetsuit shampoos ever created. Compared to most wetsuit cleaners, the JAWS Slosh does not contain any harmful chemicals. It effectively removes salt, odor, chlorine, organic residue while preserving your wetsuit’s life.
It works on all types of water sportswear. Plus, it contains special conditioning agents and leaves a fresh scent. This wetsuit cleaner is eco-friendly, biodegradable, and hypoallergenic.
Not all wetsuit cleaners are created equally, and the JAWS Slosh Wetsuit Shampoo and Conditioner has its own distinguishable, universal feature. Having said so, this naturally green 2-in-1 formula is undeniably convenient as it cleans your wetsuit as well as your body and hair.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| A hypoallergenic and fresh scent | Complains about being less cost-effective |
| Eco-friendly and biodegradable | Does not completely remove the smell |
| Works on all water sportswear |
|
| Unique 2-in-1 formula |
|
| No harmful chemicals |
|
#2. IMPRESA [32 Washes] Wetsuit Soap Cleaner Shampoo – Best for Deep Cleaning
Specifications:
- Size / Weight: 32 oz
- Material: Neoprene-friendly formula
- Package Color: Blue
- Sport Type: Scuba diving, surfing, swimming, triathlonAvailable in: 32 oz bottle
IMPRESA Wetsuit Soap Cleaner is a powerful yet gentle formula designed to remove odors, chlorine, and ocean residue from neoprene wetsuits. With up to 32 washes per bottle, it provides a long-lasting cleaning solution for divers and surfers.
This wetsuit shampoo not only cleans but also extends the life of wetsuits by preventing material breakdown. It is biodegradable and non-toxic, making it safe for the environment.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent for completely removing unwanted bacteria build-up that causes a smell | Needs about 2-4 soaks and washes before completely cleaning |
| Can be used for spot clean or deep soaking | Requires more of the product in one wash |
| A good amount of product in one bottle |
|
| Worth the price |
|
| Cleans well |
|
#3. O’NEILL Mens Cleaner Wetsuits – Best for O’Neill Wetsuits
Specifications:
- Size / Weight: 8 oz
- Material: Specially formulated for neoprene
- Package Color: Assorted
- Sport Type: Surfing, swimming, scuba diving
- Available in: 8 oz bottle
O’NEILL Mens Cleaner Wetsuits is specifically designed for O’Neill wetsuits but works effectively on all neoprene-based wetsuits. It removes dirt, salt, and chlorine while maintaining the flexibility of the material.
Its unique conditioning formula keeps wetsuits fresh, preventing damage from prolonged exposure to harsh elements. Ideal for frequent divers and surfers looking for brand-specific care.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Helps wetsuit to be stretchy and easy to wear on | Can only be used for approximately 3-5 washes |
| Effectively removes stench from urine | Does not completely get rid of the smell |
| Works excellently as advertised | Too expensive for its volume |
| Leaves a pleasant smell | Needs more in one wash |
| Cleans well |
|
#4. Pau Pilau Wetsuit Cleaner and Conditioner – Best for Odor Removal
Specifications:
- Size / Weight: 16 oz
- Material: Biodegradable cleaner
- Package Color: Green
- Sport Type: Scuba diving, surfing, kayaking, snorkelingAvailable in: 16 oz bottle
Pau Pilau Wetsuit Cleaner and Conditioner is a dual-action formula that cleans and deodorizes wetsuits effectively. It removes salt, sweat, and bacteria while keeping the wetsuit material soft and flexible.
This eco-friendly solution is biodegradable and hypoallergenic, making it a safe choice for sensitive skin. It also helps eliminate stubborn odors, leaving wetsuits smelling fresh.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Makes the wetsuit soft and smelling new | Complaints about pouch and packaging |
| Effectively eliminates the horrible smell | Expensive |
| Improves wetsuit look |
|
| Removes stains |
|
| Many uses | |
#5. Wetsuit Cleaner and Conditioner by O’Neill
Specifications:
- Size / Weight: 0.64 ounces
- Material: Non-toxic, biodegradable
- Package Color: White / Transparent
- Sport Type: Diving
- Available in: 8 oz
The O’Neill Wetsuit Cleaner is one the best products that you can rely on when it comes to extending your wetsuit’s lifespan. This non-toxic, biodegradable conditioner is cold-water activated, and is excellent in restoring your wetsuit’s functions even after you store them for a long time.
O’Neill ensures your suit is kept fresh with their special blend of wetsuit shampoo and conditioner. It cleans and conditions your neoprene products and wetsuit while preventing oxidation and salt deposits.
More so, its most distinguishable characteristic is its ability to extend neoprene products’ lifespan. With regular use, you can also enjoy a more flexible wetsuit while keeping the stink at bay. Plus, its fine scent is a cherry on top.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Greatly extends its life and function | Inconsistencies with the amount of product advertised |
| Cleans wetsuits excellently | Complaints about seal |
| Keeps wetsuit intact | Expensive for some |
| Restores wetsuit |
|
| Smells great |
|
#6. Nikwax Wetsuit Refresh – Best for Conditioning
Specifications:
- Size / Weight: 1L
- Material: Neoprene-friendly formula
- Package Color: White and blue
- Sport Type: Diving, surfing, paddleboarding, snorkeling
- Available in: 1L bottle
Nikwax Wetsuit Refresh is a highly effective cleaner and conditioner designed to maintain neoprene gear. It removes dirt, body oils, and salt, while conditioning wetsuits to preserve flexibility.
The non-toxic, water-based formula ensures the wetsuit stays in peak condition without degrading the material. It is safe for all neoprene items, including wetsuits, gloves, and booties.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Also functions as a wetsuit conditioner | Does not completely remove dirt and oil |
| Unique light and refreshing scent | Relatively small size |
| Eco-friendly and all-natural |
|
| Eliminates odor |
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| Easy to use |
|
#7. GEAR AID Zipper Cleaner and Lubricant – Best for Zippers
Specifications:
- Size / Weight: 2 fl oz (2-pack)
- Material: Specialized zipper lubricant
- Package Color: Clear bottle
- Sport Type: Diving, camping, water sports
- Available in: 2 fl oz bottles
The GEAR AID Zipper Cleaner and Lubricant is designed to clean and maintain wetsuit zippers. It prevents salt buildup, corrosion, and sticking, ensuring smooth functionality.
This easy-to-apply solution extends the life of zippers on wetsuits, drysuits, bags, and tents. It’s an essential maintenance product for divers and campers.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Useful for other types of gears | Does not completely eliminate smell for long-term stored gear |
| Effectively reduces smell | The scent of the product itself is strong and overpowering |
| Does not irritate the skin | Size runs small |
| No rinse required |
|
| Cleans as it dries |
|
#8. Pau Pilau Wetsuit Cleaner and Conditioner – Best for Regular Use
Specifications:
- Size / Weight: 16 ounces
- Material: Neoprene
- Package Color: Blue and White
- Sport Type: Diving, snorkeling, and water skiing
- Available in: 16 oz
Pau Pilau Wetsuit Cleaner and Conditioner is an excellent choice for those who frequently use wetsuits. It provides deep cleaning and conditioning, effectively removing sweat, salt, and organic residues.
This eco-friendly and biodegradable cleaner is designed to maintain the flexibility and longevity of neoprene materials while being safe for sensitive skin.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Needs less to clean and remove foul smell | Functions more as a cleaner than a deodorizer |
| Keeps wetsuit clean, fresh-smelling | Problems with leakage |
| Completely removes smell | No scent |
| Great for maintenance | Watery |
| Cost-effective solution |
|
#9. Seavenger Wetsuit Odor Remover – Best for Fresh Scent
Specifications:
- Size / Weight: 16 oz
- Material: Biodegradable formula
- Package Color: Blue
- Sport Type: Surfing, swimming, scuba diving
- Available in: 16 oz bottle
Seavenger Wetsuit Odor Remover is a powerful deodorizing solution that eliminates foul odors caused by bacteria and sweat buildup. Its biodegradable formula is safe for both wetsuits and the environment.
This cleaner restores freshness to neoprene gear while extending its lifespan. A great option for those who want a clean and odor-free wetsuit after every use.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can also remove odor for long-term stored gears | Does not effectively remove odor for materials like rubber and nylon |
| Gears smell new and clean when dry | Needs to add more substance work more effectively |
| Works great in eliminating odors | Benefits gear that can be machine-washable |
| Easy to mix and store | Needs improvement in packaging |
| No rinse needed | |
Top Pick – Best Wetsuit Cleaners 2025
The JAWS Slosh Wetsuit Shampoo & Conditioner is one of the most well-received and best-rated wetsuit cleaners in the market and across multiple website reviews. This product contains no harmful chemicals and is completely biodegradable. It eliminates salt, odors, chlorine, and inorganic residue using unique and special disinfectants and conditioning agents that maintain and extend your equipment’s life.
Moreover, you can also use this on wet and dry suits, swim and waterski wear, scuba equipment, marine wear, and hiking. It works fine on various sports equipment and clothing and is excellent for materials like neoprene and Lycra.
The JAWS Slosh wetsuit cleaner is made with natural ingredients, making it hypoallergenic, biodegradable, alcohol-free, and non-comedogenic. With its 2-in-1 formula, you can use the JAWS Slosh Wetsuit Shampoo & Conditioner both as a wetsuit shampoo and a body wash.
Top Brands for Wetsuit Cleaners – JAWS
Founded in 2005, JAWS creates eco-friendly solutions and products for the water sports industry. Therefore, it offers various solutions for different water sports and aquatic activities, including surfing. Inlined with this, they added fourteen more products to provide quality, eco-friendly solutions to land sports, industrial needs, and water sports.
The company also aims to provide solutions to enhance both enjoyment and comfort in any activity or sports. They also maintain simplicity while providing quality products that function naturally, using recognizable and easy-to-remember names. Currently, JAWS products are distributed in 10 countries, with about 520 dealers in the United States.
Seavenger
“TOGETHER, WE VENTURE” – With their tagline, Seavenger values adventure shared with people. The company believes that the moments created with your loved ones make up a well-lived life. So, whether you explore underwater, ride the perfect wave, or spend the vacation on a boat, Seavenger thrives in everyone’s love for the ocean.
The company caters to free spirits of any age, and weekend getaways are better spent at sea. Seavenger encourages connection and inspires community with products that you can wear in moments that make life an adventure.
Rip Curl
Tagged as the “Ultimate Surfing Company”, Rip Curl is a company built for, and about, The Search, as it drives the company’s progress and vision. No matter what your adventure involves, Rip Curl makes sure that it provides you with the best equipment you’ll need. No matter what adventure you have, Rip Curl has you covered.
For over 30 years, the company stands as the market leaders in surfing wetsuits. Their ultimate stretch neoprene and zip-free entry technologies set the standard for future wetsuits. With more advanced technology than expected, they ensure competence that will last for a long time.
How to Use Wetsuit Cleaners
Prepare the Materials
The most important thing you need when cleaning your wetsuits is an appropriate wetsuit cleaner. So, see to it that you read the label as some manufacturers specify the type of suit that will best benefit the product. Next, prepare a bathtub filled with cold water. Make sure that you have ample space so you can wash your suit.
Mix Cleaner in Cold Water
Before using your chosen wetsuit cleaner, make sure that you read the instructions indicated in each container. This is to ensure that you pour the right amount of cleaner in the water, avoiding damage to your wetsuit.
Although there are several products in the market, choose the one that will remove algae, salt, and bacteria. More so, by looking at the buyer’s guide in choosing the best wetsuit cleaner, you can have the best one in the market.
Flip Your Wetsuit and Wash
Most algae, bacteria, and salt remain inside the wetsuit as sweet build up starts from the inside. By opening the zipper and turning the wetsuit inside out, you can make sure that the product enters the wetsuit. Thus, you can easily wash and scrub your wetsuit using your hands. Note that brush can be harsh to neoprene material, so you can just simply rub the material together then leave it inside the tub for about 10 to 15 minutes.
Rinse with Cold o Fresh Water
Eliminate the soapy water from the suit by rinsing it with either cold or freshwater. Use a water hose nozzle and rinse thoroughly the same way you wash your normal clothes. However, if you are using a bathtub, you can use the faucet instead.
Dry the Wetsuit
A wetsuit tends to stretch, so you need to use a thicker hanger to dry it. Don’t zip the wetsuit to ensure air circulation. Moreover, just as hot water damages neoprene, hot conditions are not good for wetsuits. So, placing them inside a dryer permanently shrinks and destroys the wetsuit.
Hang Up the Wetsuit
Avoid anything that spoils your garment, and avoid folding your wetsuit. This, keeping user a hanger or keep it flat. The former is much preferred as it keeps air circulation going in out, keeping its fresh scent.
What to Consider When Buying Wetsuit Cleaners (Buyer’s Guide)
Non-Toxic
One of the most crucial factors in a wetsuit cleaner is that it is proven safe for both you and your wetsuit. With this, a great cleanser should clean your wetsuit without the use of any harmful alcohol or unnecessary chemicals that do more harm than good.
Gentle on Skin
Since washing wetsuits strictly prohibits the use of washing machines and dryers, it is important that the product is not harmful to your hands when handwashing your wetsuit using the product.
Biodegradable
Several wetsuit cleaners use natural and biodegradable ingredients. The biodegradable feature comes hand-in-hand with the first two factors. So, making use of biodegradable ingredients makes wetsuit cleaners environmentally friendly.
Neoprene-Friendly
Your wetsuit cleaner must not wear out the neoprene component of your wetsuit. Keeping the neoprene supple and softer for long-time results in skin comfort and easier wear.
Removes Residue
A cleaner will not be a good one if it does not remove dirt and odor, as well as organic residue, urine, sunscreen, and salt on your wetsuit. By doing so, it leaves you with a fresh, clean scent and looks for your wetsuit. Using sanitation and conditioning components preserves and extends your wetsuit’s life.
Conclusion
Wetsuits are useful to keep you warm and protected from the cold and are usually used for watersports like surfing. These clothing types are mostly made of neoprene material, which requires special care to remain flexible and stay fresh. Concerning this, the best way to do the job is to use a wetsuit cleaner or shampoo. Taking into consideration all factors needed, our top choice is the JAWS Slosh Wetsuit Shampoo & Conditioner. It effectively eliminates bacteria, salts, and organic residue with its biodegradable formula while keeping your wetsuit’s neoprene in shape.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best components of a wetsuit cleaner?
Why do you need your wetsuit cleaner?
Can you machine wash your wetsuit?
How do wetsuit cleaners prolong neoprene without smelling?
How should you wash your wetsuit?
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Luke is an avid athlete and the driving force behind Surfhungry, a vibrant online platform dedicated to sharing the joy and passion of surfing and water sports with enthusiasts around the world. With a deep-rooted love for the ocean and a lifelong commitment to riding waves, Luke’s journey as a surfer has inspired him to create a community where like-minded individuals can come together to celebrate their shared passion.
