Kayak storage guide and tips

People love using kayaks to explore lakes, seas and other bodies of water but not everyone knows how to store their kayak properly. Failing to keep your kayak stored in perfect condition could result in damage or repairs being required.

Here is a brief kayak storage guide and tips that can be utilised wherever you decide to store your kayak.

1. Drain any remaining water in your kayak

Your kayak should never be stored with any water remaining in the cockpit or compartments. The exact method of draining your kayak will depend on the type of kayak you’ve purchased.

For sit on top kayaks, you’ll need to open the plug that’s typically located at the bow or stern of the kayak. Then, you’ll need to stand the kayak up on end so that any water inside will effectively drain out. Sit inside kayaks require the use of a bilge pump and sponge. You’ll need to pump the majority of the water out of the cockpit and/or compartments before absorbing the last remnants with the sponge.

Kayaks should always be stored completely dry to avoid damage from any freeze-thaw cycles that happen with fluctuating temperatures.

2. Make sure to thoroughly clean your kayak before storing

It’s best to give your kayak a good wash before storage. If you used your kayak on the lake, you should know that lake water is usually pretty murky. You should also make sure that you remove any additional items like paddles, ropes and bumpers.

Use a mixture of warm water and a mild detergent to sponge down or scrub brush the kayak inside and out. Once cleaned, rinse it thoroughly to remove all soap and any loose debris. Open the drain plug or turn your kayak over to drain as much water out as possible. Finally, wipe the kayak down with a dry towel and leave out for a few hours to dry completely.

3. Consider buying a dry bag

You may want to purchase a dry bag to go over your kayak if you’re storing it outdoors or in a garage. A dry bag will keep water and dust away from the boat, protecting it from damage. If you have a dry bag, keep it on top of the kayak, and wrap the boat with the dry bag for storage.

4. Find a good place to store your kayak

You should avoid storing your kayak out in the open as it becomes exposed to the elements and could cause damage. It’s best to store your kayak in a basement or some other shaded structure that offers protection against external elements.

You should also avoid storing your kayak on the ground or on hard surfaces. This can cause dents that can compromise the integrity of the hull. The best ways to store a kayak indoors all involve getting your kayak up off the ground. This is recommended because storing them on their hull (or deck) for an extended period of time can cause irreversible damage.

Think about investing in a wall-mounted rack, an overhead suspension system or portable stands. Each storage system has its own advantages in terms of cost and space saving benefits.

A well-stored kayak is a happy kayak. You should take good care of your kayak if you want to get the most out of it for many years to come.

If you do not have storage space at home, Bigfoot Self Storage can help. Rent flexible, secure personal space in Stoke on Trent and Newcastle under Lyme with us. Get your storage quote today!