Swimming Equipment Maintenance: Simple Tips to Keep Your Gear Ready

Whether you’re training for a marathon swim or just hitting the lake on weekends, reliable gear makes the difference. A foggy pair of goggles or a stiff wetsuit can turn a great session into a frustrating one. The good news? Most problems are preventable with a few easy habits.

Stop Goggles from Fogging Every Time

Foggy lenses happen because warm air inside the goggles meets the cooler water outside. The quickest fix is an anti‑fog solution. A cheap but effective recipe is a drop of baby shampoo mixed with warm water. Swirl the solution inside the lenses, let it sit a few seconds, then rinse lightly. You’ll see a clear view for the whole swim.

If you prefer a ready‑made product, spray a commercial anti‑fog coating on the inside of the lenses. Apply a thin layer, let it dry, and you’re good to go. Some swimmers swear by a quick spit on the lenses before each dive – it works because saliva creates a thin film that stops condensation. Whatever method you choose, rinse the goggles with fresh water after each use to keep residue from building up.

Storage matters too. Keep goggles in a cool, dry place, preferably in a hard case. Avoid leaving them in a hot car or a damp bag, as heat and humidity speed up fogging and can warp the frames.

General Gear Care for Open Water Swims

Beyond goggles, your wetsuit, swim cap, and even your shoes need attention. Rinse everything with clean water right after a swim to wash off salt, chlorine, or sand. Salt can dry out neoprene, while chlorine can degrade elastic bands.

For wetsuits, rinse with fresh water, then hang to dry inside‑out in a shaded area. Never expose a wet wetsuit to direct sunlight or a heater – the heat can cause the material to become brittle. If you notice any tears, patch them quickly with a wetsuit repair kit to prevent water leaks.

Swim caps are cheap but they collect oils and hair products that can make them slip off. Rinse caps with mild soap, rinse again, and let them air‑dry. A quick once‑a‑month deep clean (soak in warm water with a bit of vinegar) keeps them fresh.

Footwear like water shoes or sand shoes also benefit from a rinse and dry cycle. Let them air‑dry completely before storing; a damp shoe invites mildew, which smells bad and can damage the material.

Finally, keep a small maintenance kit in your swim bag: a bottle of anti‑fog solution, a soft cloth, a wetsuit repair patch, and a spare zip tie. When something goes wrong mid‑session, you’ll have the tools to fix it without missing a beat.

Keeping your gear in top shape takes just a few minutes each week. The payoff is clear vision, comfort, and confidence every time you jump in. Ready to try these tips? Your next swim will feel smoother from the first stroke to the last.