Are you cleaning your reg the right way after a dive? Avoid unnecessary damage or wear — and keep it in top condition — with these 5 easy tips to care for it.

1. First, make sure the dust cap is in place. Never, ever allow water to seep into the first stage’s inner workings.

2. Give the reg a quick rinse with a low-pressure water hose to wash away
 any salt or sand. Then soak the reg in fresh water for 10 to 20 minutes to loosen or dissolve any residual dirt struggling to hold on.

3. During the soak phase, give the second stage a couple of swishes (without depressing the purge button) to get water flowing through the mouthpiece and exhaust tee. Then remove the reg and give it a final rinse. Pull back the hose protectors so you can get at those connections.

4. Give both first and second stages a gentle shake to clear any excess water from the yoke and exhaust tee. If there’s a tank handy, run some air through the system to blow out any residual water. Then towel off the reg while inspecting for damage or wear, coil it loosely, and lay it (don’t hang it) out of direct sunlight.

5. Remember, regs are made to get wet. Sitting in the closet for too long collects dust, dries out O-rings and stiffens user controls. Go diving often — both you and your reg will be happier for it.

More on regulators:

Gear Guide 2016 Regulator Roundup | 5 Ways To Know Your Reg | 5 Things You Need To Know About A First Stage