How To Properly Store Your Inflatable Kayak

Because of their portability and ease of storage, inflatable kayaks are rapidly becoming a game-changer in the paddling community. To ensure that the boat lasts as long as possible, issues concerning the durability and utility of the inflatables have been addressed. However, proper kayak storage is crucial to its longevity. Care and maintenance routines must be followed, which may differ from those of traditional yaks.

But don’t worry, I’ve got your back! I’ve included 5 simple steps for proper inflatable kayak storage to keep it in good condition.

5 simple steps for safe inflatable kayak storage

Step 1: Clean your kayak

Cleaning your kayak is an important part of storing it correctly. When you store your boat when it is dirty, it is vulnerable to damage, especially if you are paddling in saltwater. Even fine grits can de-braid inflatables, increasing the likelihood of leaking and tampering with UV protection.

In many cases, thoroughly cleaning your kayak at the shore may be impossible. You may have taken your kayak out in a muddy, dirty, sandy, or grimy area where you don’t have access to clean water to rinse it off. In this case, wipe your kayak with a towel and place it in your car.

When you get home, give it a thorough cleaning by following the steps outlined below:

• Disassemble and remove all gear attached to the sides, inside the kayak, and any detachable from the base.
• Clean, rinse, and dry all of the attachments you’ve removed, including seats, paddles, rudders, skegs, directional stabilizers, detachable thwarts, and any other equipment, and set them aside.
• You can clean your kayak whether it is inflated or deflated, but it is much easier when it is inflated.
• Wipe down the kayak with a towel to remove any dirt or debris that has accumulated. If your boat is particularly filthy, thoroughly clean it with mild soap and water. Only use water if you come from a clean, freshwater body.
• Wash the inside and outside of your inflatable kayak, as well as the spaces between the air chambers. When cleaning your kayak, always close all of the valves.
• Turn your kayak over and wash the bottom as well. Remove and clean your boat’s detachable floor separately. This also allows you to clean the inside of your kayak’s bottom.
• Rinse your kayak thoroughly with fresh water to remove any soapy and grimy residue from the nooks and crannies of your boat.
• Proceed to the next step once completed.

Step 2: Dry your kayak

After cleaning your kayak, make sure it’s completely dry before deflating and storing it. To avoid the growth of molds and mildew, keep the inflatable kayak completely dry when storing it during the off-season. Molds and mildew degrade the surface of your kayak, making it thinner and more prone to punctures.

Wipe the inside, outside, and bottom of the kayak clean with a towel. Please allow some time for it to air-dry before proceeding to the next step.

Step 3: Deflate and fold your kayak

Always deflate your inflatable kayak before storing it to prevent punctures and expansion due to temperature changes. Expansion wears down the valves and seams, resulting in leaks. Open all of the valves to gradually deflate your boat while applying gentle pressure to the floor, sides, and other parts to expedite the process.

• Fold your kayak once it has been completely deflated. Follow the steps outlined below:
• Roll or fold your kayak in a new way each time to avoid weak points forming over time.
• Begin by folding the sides towards the center of the kayak and aligning the spray kits over the center of the kayak.
• Continue to roll/fold your kayak loosely at the opposite end from the valves to push any remaining air out.
• Sharp corners and bends should be avoided as they can easily damage your kayak.
• Ascertain that the resulting shape will fit easily into the storage bag.
• Maintain a flat stabilizing base, such as a skeg base, within the fold.
• Once the kayak has been folded neatly, close the valves to prevent debris from entering.
• Cover any rudders, skegs, or directional stabilizers that are attached to the inflatable kayak with protectors.

Step 4: Pack your kayak in the storage bag

Once your inflatable kayak is clean, dry, deflated, and folded, place it in the storage bag. Consider purchasing a bag if your boat did not come with one. The following advantages come from storing the kayak in the transport bag:

• Protect the kayak from UV rays.
• Keep any dirt or debris away from the kayak while it is in storage.
• The breathable mesh ensures that the boat dries quickly, preventing mold and mildew growth.
• In addition to storage, the bag can be used to transport the kayak whenever and wherever it is needed.

Step 5: Store your kayak in a suitable place

Look for a suitable location to store your inflatable kayak after carefully packing it in its storage bag until your next expedition. It is always preferable to store the kayak indoors, in a cool, dry location free of rodents. It can be stored in a closet, an attached garage, or the basement.

If you don’t have enough space inside, then store the kayak outside, but cover it with a tarp to protect it from UV rays and rodents, as well as to keep debris from falling on it. Again, if your preferred location is prone to rodent infestation, keep your kayak inside a sealable container to avoid damage.

Can you store your kayak while inflated?

Although it is not recommended to store your kayak while it is inflated, there are some situations where it is appropriate. For example, if you’re camping near a lake, you can leave the kayak inflated for the duration of your trip. This saves time deflating and inflating the kayak and makes it easier to access when heading out to the water.

However, even when inflated, you must store the kayak correctly to avoid damage. To keep your inflated kayak safe, follow the tips below:

• Once out of the water, always keep your inflated kayak out of the sun. When you expose a blown-up kayak to sunlight, the air inside warms and expands. As a result, the kayak’s psi will rise, putting a lot of strain on the seam and causing it to burst.
• After each use, wipe it down with a damp cloth. Even if you plan to use the boat again the next day, wash it after use, especially if you kayak in salty or dirty water. Rinse your vessel quickly to prevent salt corrosion and sand and mud scratches.
• Let some air out. The inflatables’ recommended inflation psi maintains optimal stiffness without overinflating the kayak. However, you should not store the kayak at optimal psi in order to allow for any expansion of the air inside. Release at least 3-5 psi, then re-pump when ready to use.
• To allow it to dry, keep it off the ground. Even if the kayak is fully inflated, the sides should be kept dry. Once the boat has been rinsed, place it on wooden planks or buckets to dry and clean the sides.

• Keep it in a secure location. Make sure to keep your kayak away from windstorms while kayak camping. Because they are light and buoyant, inflatables are easily blown away by the wind. If the location is windy, secure it with ropes and stakes in the wooden planks.

Conclusion

Properly storing your inflatable kayak increases its lifespan and ensures it will serve you well for many years. To avoid regrets when using inflatable kayaks, always follow the steps I’ve highlighted.