Article takeaways
- With proper care and attention, inflatable pools can last more than one season.
- Start by draining, rinsing, and cleaning the pool according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Thoroughly dry the liner, valve, seams, and underside, then store it in a breathable bag or its original packaging.
- Consider a climate controlled storage unit to keep your inflatable pool and blow up pool toys safe and secure for seasons to come.
Inflatable pools have something of a reputation. They’re convenient and affordable, which means many families may treat them as a commodity and buy a new one every summer. It doesn’t have to be that way. With a little extra TLC, inflatable pools and blow-up pool toys can provide your family with fun in the sun for years to come.
It doesn’t take a ton of extra work to break your inflatable pool and toys down and ready for storage. You simply need to clean it, deflate it, dry it, and loosely fold it for storage in a cool and dry place. Sounds simple enough, right? If you’re ready to stop buying a new miniature backyard lagoon every summer, read on to learn how to prevent mold, mildew, and material damage between swimming seasons.
Whether you have a small blow-up pool, a large inflatable pool, or a collection of pool floats, a little preparation can help you bring everything back out in better condition.
1. Drain the pool and remove loose debris
Start by draining the pool completely. Follow local rules for directing the water away from foundations, neighboring property, and areas where it could cause erosion. Once the water is gone, remove leaves, grass, dirt, and other debris from the liner and bottom.
If the pool has a filter, pump, ladder, cover, or other accessories, disconnect them and set them aside. Check the instructions for each component before cleaning or packing it. Small parts are easy to lose, so keep them together in a labeled bag. Make sure every component is dry before packing it away to prevent detrimental moisture build-up.
2. Clean the inflatable pool before storage
Use the cleaning method recommended for your pool’s material, which is usually vinyl or PVC. In many cases, a soft cloth or sponge with mild soap and water is enough for normal dirt. Avoid abrasive brushes, harsh chemicals, and tools that could scratch or weaken the vinyl.
Pay attention to areas that are easy to overlook:
- The bottom and sidewalls
- Seams and folds
- Drain openings and valves
- The area around the pump connection
- Any spots where sunscreen, grass, or oils have collected
Rinse away all soap residue. Cleaning before storage helps prevent old dirt and organic material from becoming a source of odor or discoloration while the pool is packed away.
3. Dry every part completely
Drying is the most important step in learning how to clean and store an inflatable pool. Use a clean towel to remove surface water, then leave the pool open and inflated or partially inflated long enough for the remaining moisture to evaporate.
Avoid leaving your pool and inflatables in direct sunlight to dry, which can damage and deform them prior to storage.
Check the seams, valve openings, folds, and underside. These areas can stay wet even when the visible surface looks dry. If possible, dry the pool in a clean, shaded area with good airflow.
Do not fold or bag the pool until there is no visible or detectable moisture. If the pool develops a musty smell during storage, moisture may have been trapped inside.
Packing a completely clean and dry inflatable pool is your first and best line of defense for preventing mold and mildew in storage.
4. Inspect the pool before deflating it
Look over the liner for small punctures, damaged seams, worn valves, and areas that feel unusually soft. Repair minor damage only with a patch kit that is compatible with the pool’s material, and follow the kit’s instructions. Allow any repair to cure fully before folding the pool. If you cannot identify the source of a leak or a seam appears to be separating, check the manufacturer’s warranty or care guidance before attempting a larger repair.
5. Fully deflate the pool
Open the appropriate valves and let the pool deflate completely. Pressing or rolling the pool too aggressively can stress the material and force air through weak points. Once deflated, smooth out the liner and remove wrinkles, leaves, and dust.
If the pool has multiple air chambers, deflate them one at a time. Keep valve caps and repair pieces with the pool so they are ready for the next setup.
6. Fold the pool loosely and pack it up
Follow the manufacturer’s folding pattern if one is provided. Otherwise, fold the pool in loose, broad sections rather than creating tight, repeated creases in the same spots. Avoid placing heavy objects on top of the folded liner.
A breathable storage bag or the original carrying case can help protect the pool from dust. Do not wrap a damp pool in airtight plastic, and do not use a container with rough edges that could puncture the vinyl. If you use a plastic bin, confirm that the pool is fully dry and avoid overpacking the container.
Label the package so you can find the pool, repair kit, pump, hoses, and accessories together next season.
Packing, labeling, and organizing your storage solution only take a few minutes, but are worth a lot in time and money down the road.
How to Store Pool Floats for Winter
Pool floats should be cleaned, rinsed, and dried before storage, just like the pool itself. Deflate them fully, inspect the valves and seams, and store each float away from sharp tools, rough surfaces, and extreme heat.
For large floats, avoid forcing them into a container that is too small. A tight fold or heavy stack can create stress points. Store smaller inflatables in a breathable bag or a clean container with enough room to prevent crushing.
Keep inflatable toys and floats separate from chemicals, fuel, fertilizer, and equipment with sharp edges. If a float still smells strongly of chlorine or cleaning products after rinsing, allow it to air out before packing.
Can You Store an Inflatable Pool in a Storage Unit?
Yes, you can store a clean and packed inflatable pool and accessories in a storage unit. A small climate-controlled storage unit is an ideal environment for storing inflatable pools, pool floats, and other recreational items in the off-season. Summer storage is popular among college students and families who enjoy traveling abroad, but winter storage is a great way to keep your home tidy and clutter-free in the cooler months, too.
Frequently asked questions
We Can Help You Find Safe Storage Nearby
Storage units are a great option for storing recreational equipment, like pools and pool floats.
Storing an inflatable pool for winter is mostly a matter of preventing moisture and physical damage.
Drain and clean the pool, let every part dry completely, repair small problems, deflate it, and keep it loosely folded in a cool, dry, protected place.
Planning on taking your pool and accessories to storage for the long term? Store the pump and accessories with it, and check facility rules before using self-storage.
When you’re ready to pack it up and get ready for the next cold front, we’ve got storage deals near you that can help you store it until you need it.
