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How to Store an Inflatable Boat in winter

It’s almost that time of the year when lakes will be frozen, and chilly weather will lock us indoors. Winters are when inflatable boats are pulled out of the harbor and dinghy docks to take a break from the water.

Whether a hard-shelled boat or an inflatable dinghy, proper storage is essential to keep the craft safe and extend its life, inflatable boats are quite delicate and easily damaged if stored improperly because their buoyancy tube is made of fabric using elastomer PVC or neoprene/Hypalon rubber. If you’re also an inflatable dinghy owner who is worried about how to store the boat for the next several weeks, we have some pro tips for you.

Image result for inflatable Boat in winter

1. Always clean your boat before storing

Always clean your inflatable boat before storage, but avoid using solvents, MEK, toluene, acetone, bleach, ammonia, highly alkaline cleaners of pH more than 11.5, and scrub pads or steel wool to clean your inflatable. This is because harsh cleansers and abrasive scrub pads damage the material and thin your boat. Use mild soap or products designed specifically for cleaning these boats. After removing dirt and other environmental contaminants, using Inflatable Boat Cleaner, apply a protectant coat that will keep your boat’s material safe. Moreover, never use high-pressure cleaning equipment to clean stubborn dirt because this can cause serious damage to your boat. Simply clean with the manufacturer-recommended product, rinse thoroughly with fresh water, and let it dry.

2. Storing options

The most common question of inflatable boat owners is whether to store their boat inflated, half-inflated, or vacuum-sucked. Now, this depends on the space available for storing your dinghy. Though it is best to keep your boat extended and pumped in a timely to maintain its shape, it is optional if you don’t have enough storage space. You can also keep it half-inflated to save some space. The third option of keeping it completely deflated should be chosen only when you don’t have any room to keep it for months. In this case, you can reduce it fully, roll it, and place it off the floor.

3. Store it off the floor

When storing your inflatable boat, ensure pests are not eating away your boat material. This happens when the ship is kept either flat on the floor or leaned up on the wall. When you completely deflate the boat, rodents munch on the soft material of the ship. So, choose a location wisely that is clean, dry, and not affected by major variations in temperature and other damaging environmental factors.

Proper maintenance and storage are fundamental to extending the life of your inflatable boat. If not properly stored, the winter season may be destructive for your inflatable boats. To keep your craft in the best condition, always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and never store it in a place with pipe leaks or any source of moisture. Try to keep it inflated and properly covered with a thick tarp. Tie the cover sheet properly so strong winds don’t peel it off. When leaving your vessel outside in the cold and direct sunlight, apply a UV Protectant to avoid damage and keep it lubricated.

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I work for WideInfo and I love writing on my blog every day with huge new information to help my readers. Fashion is my hobby and eating food is my life. Social Media is my blood to connect my family and friends.
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