Washing neoprene

Before washing neoprene in the washing machine, it's important to understand the recommended care for the fabric. Neoprene clothing is generally quite durable—it doesn't wrinkle or tear, withstands temperature fluctuations, and isn't prone to shrinkage. Let's look at how to properly care for items made from this material.

Recommendations for washing neoprene items

Experts advise reading the label after purchasing an item. It outlines key recommendations and restrictions. If you follow these guidelines, the garment will retain its appearance and properties for a long time. What makes neoprene special?

• The material is waterproof, so you will have to clean it from both the outside and the inside.
• The fabric is able to withstand external influences and is not prone to damage.
• Neoprene has the ability to repel dust and dirt, so washing this material is required quite rarely.
• Neoprene clothing does not wrinkle or crease.
• The material is not prone to deformation.
• Neoprene is resistant to temperature fluctuations, able to withstand temperatures from -50 to +90 degrees. This ensures the fabric lasts a long time.
• Neoprene clothing can retain heat, but it does not "breathe" at all and cannot be worn for long periods of time.
• The fabric is hypoallergenic.
• Harmful microorganisms cannot live on neoprene, so the material is rightfully considered one of the safest.

Due to its properties, the material lasts for quite a long time and does not require any specific care. Neoprene is not prone to wear, fading or deformation. It is better to wash neoprene products as rarely as possible – only when it is really necessary.

Is it safe to machine wash neoprene?

Machine washability will depend on the garment type. If the garment is made of thicker materials (such as a neoprene wetsuit), hand washing is the only option. Everyday neoprene garments are generally machine washable.

The manufacturer always indicates on the product label whether it's machine washable, the preferred water temperature, and the permitted spin speed. If you can throw your neoprene in the washing machine, be sure to select the delicate or hand wash cycle.

Regular washing powder isn't suitable for washing neoprene clothing, as it will leave streaks on the material. Therefore, it's advisable to purchase special detergents for this fabric. When washing neoprene in an automatic machine, it is better to turn off the spin cycle. You'll need to wash neoprene clothing twice in the washing machine. First, to clean the outer surface, then the inner part. Neoprene repels water well, so the garment doesn't become completely soaked right away.

We wash in the traditional way

Hand washing is the preferred method for caring for neoprene clothing. This allows for more effective cleaning with minimal time. Just follow these basic guidelines:

• the water temperature should not exceed 30⁰С;
• It's best to use a special detergent for washing neoprene. Gels for wool, delicate fabrics, or children's clothing are also suitable;
• It is advisable to soak neoprene items for 30 minutes in a soap solution, with a quarter of an hour on one side and the remaining time on the back.

There is no need to worry about soaking neoprene clothing, as it is not prone to shrinkage.

If you're washing larger items, such as a neoprene jacket, waders, or wetsuit, it's best to hand-clean them. Follow these steps:

• fill the bathtub with water and dilute the detergent in it;
• immerse the product in a soap solution for 15 minutes;
• turn the item inside out and leave it to soak for another quarter of an hour;
• Using gentle movements, clean the most soiled areas of the fabric;
• drain the water and rinse the garment on both sides using the shower;
• After thoroughly rinsing the item, leave it in the bath for about 20 minutes.

Avoid wringing neoprene garments. Allow the water to drain and lay them flat in a ventilated room to dry. Avoid direct sunlight. Turn the jacket or suit inside out during drying to ensure even drying.

Everyday clothes made of neoprene that aren't heavily soiled are even easier to wash. Simply hang them on a hanger over the bathtub and spray them with water from the outside and inside. This will help refresh the garment.

Ironing and storage

If you dry a neoprene garment properly, you won't need to iron it. This material won't wrinkle or crease. Many neoprene items have a crossed-out iron symbol on their labels, meaning that ironing such fabric is prohibited.

Some neoprene "everyday" clothing can be ironed, so be sure to check the product label.

If a large crease does appear in neoprene, smooth it out through an additional layer of fabric and at the lowest temperature. A steamer is ideal. This device will quickly remove creases without damaging the material.

If a neoprene item is very wrinkled or even stuck together, it's recommended to soak it completely. Afterward, allow the excess water to drain and lay the item flat, smoothing out the fabric. If you dry it correctly, the material will remain flat.

It's recommended to store neoprene clothing vertically. Therefore, hang it on a hanger and store it in a closet. If you don't use it often, it's best to "hide" it in a bag. After wearing, be sure to air the material before storing it in the closet.

Caring for neoprene clothing is quite simple. This material is resistant to shrinkage, wear, fading, and wrinkling. Items should be washed inside and out, as the fabric is water-repellent. Dry flat in a well-ventilated area.

   

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