Post-Trip Gear Cleaning: How to Properly Clean Scuba Gear After a Dive Trip
Jen Downey Mar 25, 2026
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Post-Trip Gear Cleaning: How to Properly Clean Scuba Gear After a Dive Trip
You’re home. You’re tired. But this is the most important step.
Salt left behind on your gear keeps working long after your vacation ends.
Soak it. Soak it real good.
For your BCD:
- 20-30 minute fresh water soak.
- Actuate all buttons and valves.
- Partially fill and rinse the BCD bladder.
For your regulator:
- Make sure your dust cover is on!
- Move the hose covers away from the first stage.
- Rinse the first and second stages, but do not purge regulators.
- Dump out any water from the second stage so it doesn't become a puddle while storing.
This removes salt from places that a quick rinse would miss.
Clean Exposure Gear Properly
Use a wetsuit cleaner. We recommend the new Stream2Sea Gear Wash.
- Eco-friendly, non-comedogenic, and safe on skin.
- Neutralizes harsh pool chemicals, if you took a dip in the pool post ocean dive.
- Removes chlorine, salt, odors, and organic residue.
- Preserves the life and elasticity of your aqua wear.
- Doubles as a shampoo and body wash in a pinch!
- Smells nice.
Hang inside-out first, then right-side-out once dry.
Dry. We mean D-R-Y!
Moisture causes:
- Mold
- Corrosion
- Adhesive breakdown
Never store damp gear in a sealed bin!
Post Trip Inspection
Look for:
- Corrosion, starting at the regulator hose covers and fittings.
- Cracked or torn mouthpieces.
- Sand. Everywhere.
- Fraying straps.
This is the best time to schedule service, if needed!
Need a post-trip inspection? Bring your gear in. Catching small corrosion early can prevent major repairs later.
