If you follow my websites, you’ll see that I tell you that inflatable kayaks are durable but require care to extend their life. Many of those pampering sessions are when we use it. Others when we finish. And in that line, how to store an inflatable kayak is important so that our kayak lasts for many years. And here I tell you how to do it right.
Although storing the inflatable kayak well is always important, you have to be more rigorous if we store the kayak for a long time, and a little less if it is only for a few days. In any case, there are some tips that are common. I recommend these steps.
1 CLEAN THE INFLATABLE KAYAK WELL
I have touched on this topic in depth, and in addition to being important, it depends a lot on the type of inflatable kayak and its configuration. There are kayaks with more corners where dirt can remain. But it’s about
It is not necessary to use products. Just with fresh water, it’s enough. What matters more is the consistency in cleaning than the intensity of the washing. Use a mild soap for special washes, or if it is very stained. Do not use other cleaning products. Solvents, alcohol and almost any chemical. TOTALLY PROHIBITED
2 DRY IT THOROUGHLY
Drying is also important. Especially in kayaks that due to their design are full of corners where water remains. My experience tells me that the best drying is achieved with the kayak well emptied (do you now understand the importance of the bottom plugs?). Then it’s about removing a little air from the kayak, and letting it dry inflated. In the shade if possible, and with the bottom of the kayak facing the sky.
A kayak in the sun can burst, or generate leaks. I do not recommend using a dryer or compressed air. If there are traces of moisture, better a cloth, towel or sponge.
WHERE TO WASH AND DRY THE KAYAK WELL
It is something that you should value because sometimes it is difficult to wash and dry well in the place you navigate. It requires a clean space, time and shade. That is why it is sometimes better to collect everything as it can, and then do it at home or in a friend’s area. With calm and care. 😉
3 DEFLATE THE KAYAK WELL
To achieve a perfect folding it is important to empty the air well. And to achieve this the type of valve is very important. Boston or high pressure valves are the best for air to escape easily.
But the most effective are the inflation pumps that suck the air. My advice is that when you remove the maximum amount of air, close the valve. This way you prevent air from entering when folding.
4 FOLD THE KAYAK WELL
Inflatable kayaks are folded in a unique way. If we change it, we put the material at risk, and also the volume of the package increases. If you fold it badly, placing it inside the bag can be torture.
To fold the kayak well, I recommend that you read the instructions of the manufacturer or watch an official video. In low cost models, a trick that I do is to make a homemade video when taking it out of the box for the first time. If you can visualize how it comes folded from the factory, it is only a matter of undoing the path to fold it well.
5 CLOSE WELL AND FIND a SUITABLE PLACE
We have already done all the steps of washing, drying, deflating and folding the kayak well. Then it is key to close the kayak bag well. And then choose a suitable place to store it. Look for a dry place, in the shade (better inside) and away from heat. I keep it under the bed. But under a staircase or a storage room, it’s okay. The key is that it does not get sunlight, and that it does not have strong temperature variations. Another issue is not to place weight on top of the kayak bag.
STORE AN INFLATABLE KAYAK FOR A LONG TIME
Another thing I do is place several anti-humidity bags between the folded kayak. They cost little and prevent the appearance of harmful mold. I use these from above. The brand does not matter. It is important that they are at least 100-200 grams. With three or four placed well distributed, it’s okay. I hope I have helped you and if you have any questions, you know, send an email.
