Few things embody carefree summer fun like lounging on a pool float, soaking in the sun, and letting your worries drift away. Whether it’s a classic inflatable lounger, an oversized flamingo, or a luxurious foam mat, your pool floats are an essential part of your relaxation ritual. But when the party’s over, what happens to your beloved floats?

Improper storage can lead to premature aging, mold buildup, tears, and faded colors. But with the right approach, you can preserve your pool floats and keep them looking fresh for many summers to come.

Our Products

Why Proper Pool Float Storage Matters

Pool floats aren’t just toys—they’re investments in your leisure time and the ambiance of your outdoor space. Quality floats can cost a pretty penny, and with exposure to sun, water, and pool chemicals, they face constant wear and tear.

Here’s why storing them correctly is so important:

1. Preventing Mold and Mildew

Floats are often put away wet. Trapped moisture—especially in a humid garage or shed—creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew. Not only is this gross, but it also deteriorates the materials and creates an unhealthy environment.

2. Protecting Against UV Damage

Even when not in use, floats left out in the sun can suffer serious fading and material breakdown due to UV exposure. Proper storage helps retain their vibrant colors and soft textures.

3. Avoiding Punctures and Creases

Floats that are tossed carelessly into a closet or stacked under heavy objects are prone to damage. A sharp object, a hard fold, or too much weight can permanently deform or destroy them.

4. Aesthetic and Space Benefits

Messy piles of floats can make even the most luxurious backyard look cluttered. Clean, organized storage keeps your space serene and functional.

Best Storage Methods for Different Float Types

Not all floats are created equal. Inflatables, foam loungers, and novelty pool toys each require different handling. Here’s how to store pool floats according to their type:

Inflatable Pool Floats

Deflate, Dry, Store Smartly

Deflate Properly: Always let out all the air before storing. Use a pump that has a deflate function to make it quicker and easier.
Dry Thoroughly: Towel-dry first, then air-dry in the shade to ensure no moisture is trapped.
Fold Gently: Avoid tight creases. Roll rather than fold when possible to prevent cracks.
Use a Hanging Float Rack: Instead of stuffing inflatables in bins, opt for a patented hanging rack. These racks allow airflow and prevent warping.

Foam Floats

Keep It Flat and Clean

Rinse After Use: Chlorine and salt water can degrade foam. A quick rinse with clean water does wonders.
Dry Completely: Just like with inflatables, drying is crucial to prevent mold.
Store Flat or Hang: Never fold foam floats. Hanging racks that support the entire float’s shape are best.
Avoid Compression: Don’t stack heavy objects on top—foam can flatten permanently.

Novelty Pool Accessories

Bag and Bin Them

Use mesh bags or breathable storage bins for small items like beach balls, arm floaties, and swim noodles.
Hang smaller accessories on wall hooks or rack extensions to save space and keep things visible.

Seasonal Storage Tips

When summer fades and it’s time to pack up the backyard paradise, use these seasonal tips to store your floats safely:

Deep Clean Before Storage

Before you even think about storing your floats for the off-season:

Rinse with water.
Wipe down with a gentle soap or a water-vinegar solution to remove grime.
Dry thoroughly.

Use a Dedicated Rack System

Instead of piling floats in the garage, invest in a dedicated float storage rack from Floatstorage. These racks are designed specifically for large pool floats, keeping them off the floor and preventing moldy corners or accidental punctures.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Storage

Garage or Shed: Dry, cool areas are best. Ensure proper airflow.
Patio or Pool Deck: Use covered float racks made with weatherproof materials.
Basement: Only if it’s dry and temperature-controlled. Mold loves basements otherwise.

Rotate Your Floats

If you have a large float collection, consider rotating which ones are on display and which are in storage. This helps reduce overuse and gives each float a longer lifespan.

How to Prevent Mold & Mildew

This is the number one enemy of pool floats. Preventing it is easier than trying to clean it.

Dry, Dry, Dry: It can’t be said enough—never store floats wet.
Use Hanging Racks: Hanging allows water to drain and air to circulate.
Avoid Plastic Bags: These trap moisture.
Spray with Vinegar Solution: Natural and effective against mold spores.
Add Silica Packets: These absorb any residual moisture in storage bins.

Space-Saving Storage Ideas

Got a tight space? No problem! Storing floats efficiently can make even a small area look like a resort:

Wall-Mounted Hanging Racks

These keep floats elevated and neatly arranged. Floatstorage’s patented designs are sleek, sturdy, and made to fit almost any wall or fence.

Vertical Bins

Great for pool noodles and smaller accessories. Opt for tall, open containers with drainage holes.

Ceiling-Mounted Systems

If you have a garage with high ceilings, use pulleys or loft racks to store lightweight inflatables overhead.

Behind-the-Gate Hooks

Install hooks behind your pool gate to hang small floats out of sight without taking up room.

Best Materials for Outdoor Storage

Outdoor storage demands durability. Your pool float storage should be as reliable as your floats themselves.

Powder-Coated Steel

Resistant to rust and weathering, it’s ideal for humid environments or coastal locations.

UV-Resistant PVC

Sturdy and long-lasting, Floatstorage uses 100% USA-made PVC that withstands the sun’s harsh rays and won’t degrade or fade.

Marine-Grade Aluminum

Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, perfect for poolside use.

Avoid cheap plastics and untreated metals—they crack, warp, and rust easily. Stick with proven materials like those offered by Floatstorage to get the most life out of your system.

Why Choose Floatstorage?

When it comes to knowing how to store pool floats the right way, you need storage that’s built for the job. That’s where Floatstorage comes in.

With over 20 years of expertise beautifying backyards and resorts across the U.S. and Canada, Floatstorage is the largest PVC pool storage solutions manufacturer, trusted by homeowners, luxury hotels, and commercial pool owners.

What Sets Us Apart?

100% USA-Made Materials: Our products are made from start to finish in the U.S., ensuring quality you can count on.
Proven Durability: Our patented designs have stood the test of time, resisting weather, weight, and daily wear like no other.
World-Class Quality Guarantee: Every Floatstorage product comes with a 100% quality guarantee, because we believe in delivering only the best.
Beautiful Backyard Integration: Our storage racks are designed to blend seamlessly with your outdoor décor. They are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Trusted Nationwide: We’ve supplied top resorts and thousands of homes across North America, helping everyone from casual swimmers to elite vacationers keep their floats fresh.

Make Every Summer Float Last Longer

Don’t let mold, sun damage, or clutter ruin your poolside fun. Learning how to store pool floats properly means more good times, fewer messes, and a backyard that always feels vacation-ready.

With the right methods—and the right storage solutions—you can enjoy vibrant, damage-free pool floats year after year.

Ready to Upgrade Your Float Storage?

Discover our range of patented float storage racks and accessories. Designed for luxury, built for durability, and trusted across the U.S. and Canada, our products are the gold standard in pool float care.

How to Store Pool Floats Properly to Extend Their Lifespan