Congratulations on taking the plunge and investing in a stand-up paddle board (SUP)!
You’ve made a fantastic decision that’s sure to bring you endless joy, from serene paddling adventures to heart-pumping workouts on the water.
But one important advice for you : don’t forget to store your paddle board the right way to keep the fun going.
Just make sure to store your board properly and use a board bag for short-term storage to avoid damage.
Ensure you’re storing your paddle board correctly. I’ll get back to that in a minute.
But now that you’ve got your board, you might be wondering how to store paddle boards properly when it’s not in use, between two rides.
Fear not, because I’m here to guide you through the ins and outs of paddle board storage with a bit of humor and a lot of practical advice.
The Importance of Paddle Board Storage
Think of your paddle board as your trusty steed—it deserves the best care to keep it in top-notch condition for your next escapade.
Use your paddle board the right way to prolong its life.
Make sure the board is protected to ensure longevity. I don’t want to sound like your old granny that was always saying to you in the winter : “Don’t forget to put on your coat, or you’re gonna get the cold”.
But proper paddle board storage is essential to protect it from the elements and maintain its structural integrity.
That means shielding it from harsh UV rays, moisture, and extreme temperatures.
It might be a beast on the water, but when it comes to paddle board storage, it needs a little pampering as the natural elements can be aggressive to your water equipments. I saw it first hand after years of experience. Trust me.
What to Avoid When You Store Your SUP or Stand Up Paddle Board
Before we dive into the best ways to store your SUP board, let’s talk about what to steer clear of.
Your stand-up paddle board isn’t a fan of certain environments, and avoiding these will help keep it in tip-top shape:
- UV Light Exposure Your stand-up paddle board loves the sun when you’re out on the water, but when it’s just chilling, UV light is its nemesis. Although your board has a protective coating, prolonged sun exposure can wear it down, making your board brittle and shortening its lifespan. Know how to store it out of direct sunlight. So, don’t leave it sunbathing for months on end. Instead, store your paddle board in a shaded area or use a cover to protect it from the sun; consider putting your board on its tail for optimal storage.
- High Humidity and Moisture can damage your paddle board’s surface. Moisture can be a sneaky villain, encouraging mold and mildew to crash the party and damage your board; always clean your board with a mild soap. If you store your paddle board in a damp, dark place, you might find it covered in unwanted green fuzzies. Not only is this unsightly, but it can also damage your board’s surface and leave it smelling less than fresh. Always clean your board with fresh water and let it dry completely before storage. If you want to make sure to celan your board the best way, be sure to read my article on How To Clean A Paddle Board where I show you the best way to set up your board’s cleaning ritual.
- Extreme Heat or Cold Your SUP board prefers mild climates, just like your favorite vacation spot. Extreme heat can warp it, while freezing temperatures can make it brittle. If you live in a place with harsh weather, try to find a storage solution with stable temperatures to keep your board happy.
- Storing It on the Ground Let’s face it, your SUP board is too precious to be left on the ground. Whether it’s grass, sand, or cement, these surfaces can expose your board to moisture, dirt, and cold temperatures. Plus, the ground can get colder than the air around it, which isn’t great for your board’s health. Use a storage rack to keep your paddle board elevated and avoid any unfortunate incidents.
Store It Indoors : The Best Ways to Store a Stand Up Paddle Board Inside
Finding the best place to store a paddle board indoors is ideal, as it keeps it away from harmful elements.
Here are some indoor storage tips to keep your board safe and sound:
Maximize Space with Ceiling or Wall Storage Solutions If space is tight, don’t worry! You can store your paddle board inside on the ceiling or wall, turning it into a piece of functional art. Lean the board against a wall if ceiling storage is not an option. This setup saves space and keeps your board out of harm’s way, while also giving your room a cool beach vibe. This is one of the best ways to store paddle boards indoors without taking up valuable floor space.
Buy a Paddle Board Storage Rack Investing in a storage rack is like getting your board its own VIP lounge. It keeps your board off the ground and neatly organized. Some racks even double as display pieces, letting you admire your board and dream of future paddling adventures; it’s best to store one board vertically. A storage rack is a great way to store a paddle board inside your home, making it easy to grab and go when the water calls.
Paddle Board Storage Tips for Limited Space
Living in a small apartment or a home with limited storage?
No problem!
There are clever ways to store a SUP board without sacrificing precious space:
- Use Ceiling Storage Solutions when you store your board indoors. If you have high ceilings, consider ceiling storage options for your board indoors. Hanging your board overhead keeps it safe and frees up floor space. It’s like having your board float above you, ready for action whenever you are. This is a fantastic way to store a paddle board inside without cluttering your living area.
- Wall Mounts as Decor Incorporate your board into your decor with a wall rack. It’s not just storage; it’s a statement piece that showcases your love for the water. Plus, it makes grabbing your board for a quick paddle session super convenient.
How to Store a Paddle Board Outdoors (different storage solution)
Sometimes, storing your paddle board indoors isn’t feasible, and you may need to leave your board outside.
But don’t fret—outdoor storage can work with a few precautions:
- Use a Shed or Garage as a Storage Solution A shed or garage offers protection from direct sunlight and excess moisture. Just ensure the board isn’t in contact with the ground to avoid cold and dampness. This is an effective way to store a paddle board outdoors without exposing it to the elements.
- Invest in a Quality SUP Board Cover A SUP board cover is like a superhero cape for your board, protecting it from weather and UV light. Make sure your board is clean and dry before covering it to protect your board from mold and mildew. Using a cover is one of the best ways to store your SUP outdoors, ensuring it stays in great condition.
- Keep It Locked and Secure when you store your board outside or indoors. Paddle boards are valuable, so security is key. If your board is outside, make sure it’s locked up tight with a paddle board lock. This gives you peace of mind knowing your investment is safe, even when you have to store a SUP outside.
Tips for Storing an Inflatable SUP or Stand-Up Paddle Board
If you have an inflatable SUP, storage is a bit different but still straightforward:
- Clean and Dry Your Inflatable SUP Before Storing Always clean and dry your inflatable board with fresh water before putting it away to protect your board from mold and mildew. Keeping your board clean is crucial when you store an inflatable SUP.
- Store Inflated or Deflated You can store your inflatable stand-up paddle board inflated to avoid creases, but if space is an issue, deflate and roll it loosely. Avoid leaving it folded too long to prevent weakening at fold points. Find a cool, dry place to store your inflatable paddle board, ensuring it stays off the ground.
- Find a Cool, Dry Spot Off the Ground Keep your inflatable SUP board off the ground in a cool, dry place. This helps maintain its shape and ensures it’s ready for your next paddle outing. Always dry your board before storing it. A good storage solution can prolong the life of your inflatable stand up paddle board.
Final Thoughts on Paddle Board Storage
To store an inflatable paddle board or a hard paddle board might seem like a chore, but it’s essential for preserving its quality and ensuring it’s ready for your next adventure.
Utilize a paddle board rack for long-term storage.
By avoiding harsh elements and choosing the right storage method, you’ll extend your board’s life and keep it in great shape.
So, tuck your board away safely and dream of your next watery journey—it’ll be waiting for you, just as excited as you are!
Being able to properly is key to preserve your board, but there is also another important step you might want to master ad it is about How To Transport Paddle Board. Check out how to do that here (without hurting yourself, damaging your board or without arriving tired on the water after lifting your board for too long).
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