When it gets cold and uncomfortable outside, many water sports activities are stopped and the inflatable boat, which was so beloved a moment ago, is suddenly just in the way. The most comfortable solution is - out of sight, out of mind: let the air out, tangle it up and throw it into a corner somewhere in the attic, in the cellar or in the garage.

But beware: Since non-use over the winter months can damage the material, proper cleaning, care and storage after summer use is especially important. Inflatable boats, children's pools and airbeds must be stored properly.

It is very important to store these items properly during the period of non-use. Over time, the material - PVC - can be damaged if, for example, it is exposed to extreme weather conditions. These items should therefore not be left outdoors during the winter. The PVC can even crack due to extreme temperature fluctuations that occur in winter and become unusable.

1. clean in inflated condition
Before packing and stowing away, inflatable boats, pools and airbeds must be cleaned properly. This way they last a long time, do not get cracks and keep their beautiful appearance. Let's do the rough cleaning first with water. Any dirt that is still there can be removed with a special "inflatable boat/PVC cleaner". This also dissolves dirt that is deeply embedded in the material. The cleaner is applied and rubbed in with a cloth. Afterwards everything is sprayed clean. In order to reach all areas, the cleaning should be carried out in an inflated state.

2. repair damage
Possible (hairline-)cracks should be mended immediately. Otherwise the crack may grow until the next use.

3. let dry well
After cleaning it is important to let everything dry well. An ideal place for this with low humidity is a vaulted cellar, a boiler room or a laundry drying room. Outside, it is often too humid due to the weather, to ensure optimal and fast drying.

4. release air
After cleaning, the air can be vented. Unless you let the boat or the pool winter on a wall bracket - then you can leave it inflated.

5. folding up
If you have decided to use a special inflatable boat backpack or a "normal" bag/box as a storage place, you should fold the inflatable boat or pool as compactly as possible. At best, folding should not cause any kinks.

6. overwintering / storage

For wintering, the following points should be observed:

• Only store completely dry items
• The storage room itself must also be dry or as free as possible from humidity. The cellar, garage, shed or attic should therefore be ventilated regularly or rent an external storage compartment that is optimally suited for this purpose, e.g. at w-lagerbox.ch