Washing neoprene

Before you wash neoprene in the washing machine, you should understand how to care for the fabric. In general, neoprene clothing is quite durable - it does not wrinkle, does not tear, can withstand temperature changes, and is not prone to shrinkage. Let's figure out how to properly process products made from such material.

Recommendations for washing neoprene items

Experts advise studying its label after purchasing an item. The main recommendations and restrictions are presented there. If you follow the rules, the clothes will retain their appearance and properties for a long time. What is special about neoprene?

• The material is waterproof, so you will have to clean it from both the outside and the inside.
• The fabric can withstand external influences and is not prone to damage.
• Neoprene has the ability to repel dust and dirt, so washing this material is rarely required.
• Neoprene clothing does not wrinkle and creases do not form on it.
• The material is not prone to deformation.
• Neoprene is resistant to temperature changes and can withstand temperatures from -50 to +90. Due to this, the fabric does not wear out for a long time.
• Neoprene clothing can retain heat, but it does not “breathe” at all and cannot be worn for a long 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 is worn for 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 the need really arises.

Is it permissible to machine wash neoprene?

The ability to auto wash will depend on the type of clothing. If this product is made of denser types of material (for example, a neoprene wetsuit), then only hand cleaning is suitable for it. Everyday neoprene items are usually machine washable.

The manufacturer always indicates on the product label whether machine washable, the preferred water heating 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.

Simple powder is not suitable for washing neoprene clothes - it will leave streaks on the material. Therefore, it is advisable to purchase special products for such fabric. When washing neoprene in an automatic machine, it is better to turn off the spin cycle. You will have to machine wash neoprene clothing twice. First to clean the top surface, then the inside. Neoprene repels water well, so the product is not immediately soaked through.

Wash in the traditional way

Hand washing is the preferred method of caring for neoprene clothing. This way you can clean the fabric more effectively, spending a minimum of time on it. The main thing is to follow the basic recommendations:

• the water temperature should not exceed 30⁰С;
• It is better 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 products for 30 minutes in a soap solution, a quarter of an hour on one side, the remaining time on the wrong side.

There is no need to be afraid of soaking neoprene clothing, as it is not prone to shrinkage.

If you are washing large items, such as jackets, waders or neoprene wetsuits, it is best to wash them by hand. The algorithm of actions will be as follows:

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

Neoprene clothing should not be twisted during the spin cycle. Therefore, let the water drain and lay the product on a flat surface in a ventilated room for further drying. It is important to avoid direct sunlight on the material. During the process, you need to turn the jacket or suit inside out so that the fabric dries evenly.

Everyday clothes made from neoprene, which are not heavily soiled, are even easier to wash. It is enough to hang it on a hanger over the bathtub and water it with a shower from the outside and inside. This will help refresh the products.

Ironing and storage

If you properly dry a neoprene product, ironing will not be necessary. This material does not wrinkle and creases do not appear on it. On the labels of many neoprene items there is a symbol of a crossed out iron, that is, ironing such fabric is prohibited.

Some neoprene casual clothing can be ironed, so be sure to read the product label.

If a large fold does appear on the neoprene, then it needs to be smoothed through an additional layer of fabric and at a minimum temperature. The ideal option is to use a steamer. The device will help you quickly deal with creases without harming the material.

If the neoprene item is very wrinkled, or even stuck together, it is recommended to completely wet it. After this, you need to wait for the excess water to drain and lay the product on a horizontal surface, straightening the fabric well. If you follow the drying rules, the material will remain smooth.

It is recommended to store neoprene clothing in an upright position. Therefore, it is hung on hangers and placed in the closet. When used rarely, it is better to “hide” the products in a case. After wearing, be sure to ventilate the material, and only then put it away in the wardrobe.

Caring for neoprene clothing is quite simple. This material is not prone to shrinkage, wear, fading or creasing. Products must be washed from the inside and back, as the fabric has water-repellent properties. Drying is carried out in a horizontal position, in a well-ventilated area.

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