How to Care for a SCUBA BCD

One piece of gear in a scuba kit is the buoyancy control device, better known by its acronym BCD. This device controls air flow into chambers and lets you control your float and achieve "neutral" buoyancy. This is the point where you stay at a static position in the water. Because a BCD is a valuable piece of safety gear, it needs to be cleaned and maintained after each use. Follow a routine pattern of cleaning and be sure to do it after each session of diving.

Things You'll Need

  • Rinse tub
  • Hose
  • Drying area
  • Soft scrub brush and soapy water
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fill the rinse tub with lukewarm water. Dip the BCD into the rinse tub several times to get a base level of grime or salt off the BCD.

    • 2

      Open the BCD vest and wash the inside using the brush dipped in soapy water. Dip it into the rinse tank to rid it of the soap after washing.

    • 3

      Open the air valve and place in the water and then squeeze to rid the BCD tubes and chambers of any remaining air. Lift out of the water while still squeezing and close the air valve.

    • 4

      Check each button on the BCD by pressing them several times. This ensures no salt build-up is in the button housings and that they are clean.

    • 5

      Hang the BCD in the shade and let it dry. Once dry, look the entire BCD over for any ripped threads, slight punctures or damage.