How To Store Inflatable Pool – Protect Your Gear For Next Season
Setting up a backyard oasis is the highlight of summer, but the real work begins when the temperature starts to drop. Knowing how to store inflatable pool equipment properly is the difference between a refreshing dip next year and a moldy, cracked mess in the trash.
You have invested your time and money into creating a fun space for your family or your off-grid homestead. It is vital to protect that investment from the harsh elements of winter and the physical stress of long-term storage.
In this guide, I will walk you through the professional steps to clean, dry, and pack away your vinyl pool. Follow these expert tips to ensure your gear remains puncture-free and ready for the first heatwave of next season.
Table of Contents
Prepare Your Site for Draining
Before you even touch the drain plug, you must have a plan for the thousands of gallons of water currently sitting in your yard. Dumping this much water at once can lead to soil erosion or even basement flooding if you are not careful.
Check your local regulations regarding pool water disposal, as some municipalities have rules about chlorine levels in the storm drain. If you have been using heavy chemicals, stop treating the water several days before you plan to empty the basin.
Direct the flow toward a lower part of your property that has good drainage. Avoid dumping the water directly onto delicate garden beds, as the residual salt or chlorine might shock your plants and soil biology.
Using a Siphon or Submersible Pump
Many small pools come with a simple drain plug at the bottom, but these can be slow and often leave several inches of water behind. For a faster and more efficient process, consider using a submersible utility pump to move the bulk of the liquid.
If you do not have a pump, a standard garden hose can act as a siphon. Submerge the entire hose in the pool to remove the air, plug one end with your thumb, and pull it to a lower point on your lawn.
Gravity will do the heavy lifting for you, allowing you to focus on gathering your cleaning supplies. Keep an eye on the discharge point to ensure you are not creating a muddy swamp in your backyard or your neighbor’s yard.
Deep Cleaning the Vinyl Surface
Once the water is out, you will likely see a layer of “biofilm” or slime on the floor and walls. This consists of algae, skin cells, and sunscreen residue that will rot and smell terrible if left in storage.
Mix a bucket of warm water with a mild dish soap or a specialized vinyl cleaner. Avoid using harsh bleach or abrasive scrubbing pads, as these can thin the PVC material and lead to microscopic leaks over time.
Use a soft microfiber cloth or a large sponge to wipe down every square inch of the interior. Pay special attention to the seams and the areas around the inflation valves, as these are prime locations for dirt to hide.
Removing Calcium and Hard Water Stains
If you live in an area with hard water, you might notice white, crusty deposits along the waterline. These calcium deposits can become sharp and brittle when they dry, potentially puncturing the vinyl when you fold it.
A mixture of white vinegar and water usually dissolves these spots without damaging the pool. Spray the solution on the crusty areas, let it sit for ten minutes, and then gently scrub with a soft-bristled brush.
Rinse the entire pool thoroughly with fresh water from your garden hose. Ensure all soap suds and vinegar are gone, as chemical residues can react with the vinyl during the winter months.
The Critical Importance of Drying
Moisture is the absolute enemy of stored outdoor gear. If you pack your pool away while it is even slightly damp, you are essentially creating an incubator for mold and mildew.
Start by using a large, clean towel to soak up the standing water in the corners and creases. Flip the pool over and dry the underside as well, as the grass-side of the vinyl often traps significant moisture.
Leave the pool in a sunny spot for a few hours, but do not leave it out for days. Excessive UV exposure can make the plastic brittle, so aim for a balance of air-drying and manual wiping.
Using an Air Compressor or Leaf Blower
Inflatable rings and double-walled floors often have “dead air” spaces that are hard to reach with a towel. Use a leaf blower on a cool setting to blast air into these tight spots and around the valves.
If your pool has an inflatable top ring, keep it partially inflated while it dries. This prevents the folds of the ring from trapping water against the main body of the pool.
Check the “seam tape” and any reinforced patches you may have applied during the summer. Ensure the edges of these patches are completely dry so they do not peel off during the folding process.
how to store inflatable pool
Now that your equipment is spotless and bone-dry, it is time to move to the final stage of the process. Learning how to store inflatable pool sets requires a bit of technique to avoid permanent creases in the vinyl.
The first “pro tip” is to sprinkle a light dusting of cornstarch or talcum powder over the entire surface of the pool. This prevents the vinyl from sticking to itself, which is a common cause of tearing when you unfold it next spring.
Lay the pool out flat on a clean tarp or a smooth garage floor. Avoid concrete with sharp pebbles or sticks that could cause a puncture while you are walking on the material to fold it.
The Folding Technique
Do not simply wad the pool into a ball. Start by folding the sides inward toward the center, creating a long, narrow rectangle that matches the width of your storage container.
Once you have a rectangle, begin rolling the pool from one end to the other, similar to how you would roll a sleeping bag or a camping pad. Rolling is generally better than folding because it creates fewer sharp “stress lines” in the PVC.
As you roll, gently press out any remaining air from the inflation chambers. If the pool becomes too bulky, stop and open the valves again to ensure every bit of air has escaped.
Choosing the Right Storage Container
The original cardboard box is rarely the best place to keep your pool. Cardboard absorbs moisture from the air and provides a perfect nesting material for rodents and insects.
Invest in a heavy-duty plastic storage bin with a secure, locking lid. These bins protect the vinyl from being crushed by other items in your garage and keep mice from chewing through the material.
Label the bin clearly so you can find it easily next year. If you have accessories like a filter pump, ladder, or ground cloth, try to store them in the same area to keep your summer kit organized.
Managing Temperature and Humidity
Vinyl is highly sensitive to temperature fluctuations. If you store your pool in an unheated shed where temperatures drop below freezing, the plastic can become extremely brittle and crack.
The ideal location is a climate-controlled area like a basement, a heated garage, or a large closet. If you must store it in a cold area, do not move or touch the bin until the weather warms up in the spring.
If the pool has been sitting in a cold garage all winter, let the bin sit inside your warm house for 24 hours before you attempt to unfold it. This allows the vinyl to regain its flexibility and prevents “cold-cracking.”
Pest Prevention and Safety Checks
Even in a plastic bin, pests can be a problem if they smell the residue of summer fun. This is why the deep cleaning step mentioned earlier is so vital for long-term success.
Some homesteaders swear by placing a few dryer sheets or peppermint oil cotton balls inside the storage bin. The strong scent acts as a natural deterrent for spiders and mice who might be looking for a winter home.
Before you seal the lid, perform one last check of your repair kit. Ensure you have plenty of patches and waterproof adhesive so you are ready to handle any surprises when you set up next year.
Maintaining the Filter Pump and Accessories
Your pool is only half the battle; the pump and hoses also need winterization. Disconnect all hoses and drain them completely, as water trapped inside can freeze and burst the plastic lines.
Remove the filter cartridge and discard it if it is heavily soiled. It is always better to start the new season with a fresh filter rather than trying to clean a gunk-filled one from last year.
Rinse the interior of the pump housing with clean water to remove any sand or debris. Store the pump in a dry place where the internal seals will not dry out or crack over the winter months.
Frequently Asked Questions About how to store inflatable pool
Can I leave my inflatable pool outside during the winter?
It is highly discouraged to leave an inflatable pool outside in freezing temperatures. The weight of snow and ice can collapse the structure, and the cold will cause the vinyl to crack and lose its structural integrity.
Is it okay to use bleach to clean the pool before storage?
While bleach kills mold, it is very harsh on PVC. It is better to use a mixture of white vinegar and water or a mild dish soap. If you must use bleach, dilute it heavily and rinse the vinyl multiple times afterward.
What should I do if I find a hole while packing it away?
It is best to patch the hole before you store the pool. Clean the area around the puncture with rubbing alcohol, apply a high-quality vinyl patch, and let it cure fully before folding the pool.
How long will an inflatable pool last with proper storage?
With diligent cleaning and climate-controlled storage, a high-quality inflatable pool can last 3 to 5 seasons. Neglecting the drying and folding process can result in the pool failing after just one year.
Can I use a vacuum bag to save space?
Vacuum bags are great for clothes, but they can create very sharp creases in thick pool vinyl. It is safer to roll the pool loosely and store it in a plastic tote rather than using extreme suction.
Final Thoughts on Pool Preservation
Taking the time to learn how to store inflatable pool equipment is a hallmark of a responsible outdoor enthusiast. It saves you money, reduces waste in landfills, and ensures your backyard is ready for fun the moment the sun starts shining.
By focusing on the “Three Ds”—Draining, Decontaminating, and Drying—you protect the integrity of the vinyl. Remember that a little cornstarch and a sturdy plastic bin are your best friends in the fight against mold and pests.
Keep your gear organized and your storage area dry. When the heat of next July hits, you will be the hero of the neighborhood with a crystal-clear pool ready to go. Stay safe and enjoy your outdoor lifestyle!
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