Rashguard Care and Maintenance Tips

Keeping Your Rashguard in Top Shape: A Guide to Surfing Wetsuit Care

As a surfer, you know how crucial it is to have the right wetsuit for your riding style and the conditions you'll be surfing in. One piece of equipment that plays a vital role in ensuring your comfort and safety on the water is the rashguard – a lightweight, flexible piece of gear that covers your torso and protects you from windburn and sun damage.

In this post, we'll explore the importance of caring for your rashguard, specifically washing and drying techniques to keep it in top shape. We'll also provide some tips on how to prevent common issues like shrinkage, fraying, and mildew.

A Run-In: Rashguard Malfunctions

Let's say you're out surfing at a popular break, enjoying the warm sun on your skin and the cool water beneath. Suddenly, you feel a sharp sting from a patch of rough seaweed clinging to your rashguard. You pull it off, only to realize that the fabric has torn in several places, leaving exposed skin vulnerable to windburn and sun damage.

A quick search online reveals that this is not an uncommon occurrence. Many surfers have experienced similar issues with their rashguards, often due to improper care or handling of the garment. But with a little knowledge and practice, you can prevent these malfunctions and keep your rashguard looking and feeling its best for years to come.

Washing Your Rashguard: Tips and Tricks

To wash your rashguard effectively, follow these steps:

1. Check the label: Before washing your rashguard, always check the care label for specific instructions. Some wetsuits may require dry cleaning, while others can be machine washed.
2. Use a mesh bag: When washing your rashguard, place it in a mesh bag to protect it from snagging and tangling.
3. Cold water is best: Wash your rashguard in cold water (below 30°C/86°F) to prevent shrinkage and damage to the fabric.
4. Mild detergent is recommended: Choose a mild detergent that's specifically designed for washing synthetic fibers like nylon or polyester.
5. Avoid agitators: When washing, avoid using agitators like spin cycles or heavy-duty washers, as they can cause damage to the rashguard.

Drying Your Rashguard: Tips and Tricks

Once you've washed your rashguard, it's time to dry it properly to prevent shrinkage and mildew:

1. Reshape while wet: Reshape your rashguard to its original shape while it's still wet to help reduce wrinkles and creases.
2. Use a drying rack: If possible, lay your rashguard out on a drying rack or hang it over a padded surface to air dry slowly and naturally.
3. Avoid heat: Avoid using heat guns, radiators, or other heat sources to dry your rashguard, as they can cause damage to the fabric.
4. Don't dry in direct sunlight: Direct sunlight can cause fading and discoloration of the rashguard. If possible, hang it in a shaded area or air dry slowly.

Preventing Common Issues

To prevent common issues like shrinkage, fraying, and mildew:

1. Handle with care: Always handle your rashguard with care, avoiding rough handling or snagging.
2. Store properly: Store your rashguard in a cool, dry place when not in use to prevent moisture buildup.
3. Avoid machine drying: When drying your rashguard by machine, use the lowest heat setting and avoid using spin cycles.

By following these tips and tricks for caring for your rashguard, you'll be able to keep it looking and feeling its best for years to come. Remember to always check the care label and handle your wetsuit with care to prevent common issues from occurring in the first place. Happy surfing! Here is the content in a table format for comparison:

Washing Your Rashguard: Tips and Tricks

Step	Description
1. Check the label	Always check the care label before washing your rashguard.
2. Use a mesh bag	Place your rashguard in a mesh bag to protect it from snagging and tangling.
3. Cold water is best	Wash your rashguard in cold water (below 30°C/86°F) to prevent shrinkage and damage.
4. Mild detergent is recommended	Choose a mild detergent specifically designed for washing synthetic fibers like nylon or polyester.
5. Avoid agitators	Use gentle wash cycles and avoid using heavy-duty washers that can cause damage to the rashguard.

Drying Your Rashguard: Tips and Tricks

Step	Description
1. Reshape while wet	Reshape your rashguard to its original shape while it's still wet to prevent wrinkles and creases.
2. Use a drying rack	Hang your rashguard out on a drying rack or hang it over a padded surface to air dry slowly and naturally.
3. Avoid heat	Don't use heat guns, radiators, or other heat sources to dry your rashguard, as they can cause damage to the fabric.
4. Don't dry in direct sunlight	Hang your rashguard in a shaded area or air dry slowly to prevent fading and discoloration.

Preventing Common Issues

Issue	Solution
Shrinkage	Handle with care, store properly, and avoid machine drying at high heat.
Fraying	Store properly, avoid rough handling, and handle with care when washing or drying your rashguard.
Mildew	Avoid machine drying in direct sunlight, use a mesh bag, and dry slowly and naturally.