Scuba Equipment Care: Before, During and After a Dive

Learn practical checks, rinsing, drying and servicing habits for scuba gear, with special attention to manufacturer guidance.

Care begins before the dive
Maintained equipment supports reliable diving, but maintenance is not only an after-dive task. Before gearing up, inspect items for damage, missing parts, incorrect assembly or unfamiliar wear. Confirm that cylinders, valves, regulators, BCD components and other life-support systems are appropriate for the planned use. Have uncertain equipment evaluated by a qualified professional.

Follow manufacturer requirements
Different materials and components have different cleaning, drying, storage and service needs. Read the instructions for your exact make and model. Do not assume a cleaning method suitable for a wetsuit is safe for a regulator or dive computer. Avoid unauthorized disassembly of pressurized or life-support components.

Rinse and dry thoughtfully
After use, remove salt, sand and debris using the manufacturer-recommended method. Protect the regulator’s first-stage inlet from water as instructed for that model. Some equipment requires specific cap placement or handling before rinsing. Allow components to dry in an appropriate ventilated place away from unnecessary heat and prolonged ultraviolet exposure.

Care for exposure suits
Rinse wetsuits, boots and gloves as directed, then dry them thoroughly before storage. Inspect zippers, seams and seals. If the suit smells persistently or shows damage, follow the manufacturer’s cleaning or repair guidance rather than using harsh chemicals without confirming compatibility.

Monitor cylinders and valves
Scuba cylinders require inspections and periodic testing under applicable standards and local requirements. Check current markings and maintenance records; never rely solely on the appearance of a cylinder. Cylinder filling and service should be performed by qualified personnel with suitable equipment.

Check computers and electronics
Before a dive, verify battery status, settings and display readability. Review the unit’s manual if switching gas modes or changing settings. Rinse or clean as recommended, and inspect contacts and charging seals where applicable. Do not ignore warnings or alarms.

Keep simple records
Write down purchase dates, inspections, service history and any problems noticed underwater. This helps qualified service technicians find intermittent faults. A dive shop can help with appropriate equipment setup, inspections and servicing while your free equipment quiz reinforces essential concepts.