As winter winds down and the days grow longer and warmer, it’s time to put away your winter gear. But it’s not as simple as throwing it into your garage or self-storage unit. You want to ensure your equipment and winter clothing are stored correctly so they're ready-to-go next season.
Whether you have skis, snowboards, or other cold-weather equipment, storing them properly will help prevent damage and extend their lifespan. Here are some tips and tricks to winter gear storage, including the best ways to keep your equipment safe in a self-storage unit.
Storing Your Skis and Snowboards
Clean and Dry Your Equipment
Before storing skis and snowboards, they must be cleaned and thoroughly dried. Any old snow or moisture left behind can lead to various harmful things, including rust, mold, or mildew. You don’t want to open your ski bag next season to find rust on your bindings!
Add Wax for Protection
Whether you apply it yourself or bring them to a ski shop, add a thick layer of storage wax to your ski or snowboard base. This will help prevent it from drying out during the off-season and act as a protective barrier against dust and moisture.
Loosen Your Bindings
Make sure your bindings aren’t too tight. Reducing the tension in your bindings will help prevent any unnecessary strain on the components and springs.
Store Them in Self-Storage
Skis and snowboards can be stored vertically or horizontally, depending on your available room. A climate-controlled storage unit is ideal for warping prevention. (We also recommend storing your board or skis in a bag made for them – extra protection!). It’s best not to store your gear in any area that experiences a temperature fluctuation, like a garage, shed, or attic.
Storing Winter Apparel & Accessories
Wash & Dry It All…Thoroughly
Before packing away your winter clothing, which includes winter coats, snow pants, gloves, hats, scarves, and jackets, give them a good wash. (Make sure to read the label, too! No one wants to ruin a nice down coat in the dryer so make sure you're paying attention to anything that says "dry clean.")
Your items must be completely dry before packing them away. Leftover moisture can lead to mold and mildew, and a mildewy smell can be tough to eliminate. If you find yourself with stinky winter accessories and jackets next season, there are a few ways to deodorize your items – check them out here!
Use Airtight Storage Containers
Use airtight plastic storage bins for your winter storage. Pack your coats, layers, and snow pants in vacuum-sealed bags for longer-term storage.
Store Your Boots Properly
The first step? Make sure that your winter boots are completely dry before storing them. Drying time is dependent on the boot material and type. Ski boots take only a few hours to dry, while Uggs can take 24-48 hours to dry at room temperature.
To speed up the drying process, you can stuff your boots with a towel or use a hair or boot dryer. Once the footwear is dry, use boot shapers or rolled up newspaper inside each boot to help maintain the shape.
Prepping & Storing Your Snowmobile
Cleaning Your Snowmobile First
Your snowmobile is going to need a good cleaning to help prevent corrosion. Remove any dirt, salt, and moisture, carefully examining the undercarriage and track.
Drain or Stabilize the Fuel
You do not want to leave fuel in your snowmobile’s tank! This can lead to gum buildup and damage. You have two options: drain the tank completely (ideal when storing for long periods) or add a fuel stabilizer and run the engine for a few minutes to circulate the treated fuel.
Change the Oil and Fluids
Before storing, perform an oil change and check the coolant and brake fluid levels. Old oil can contain contaminants that could lead to engine damage.
Disconnect the Battery
To protect the batter, disconnect it and store it separately. Batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place.
Elevate and Cover Your Snowmobile
Snowmobiles should not be stored on the ground, which could cause flat spots on the track. You should store your snowmobile on an elevated stand or wooden blocks. Cover your snowmobile with a breathable cover that will help keep out dust and moisture.
What’s the Best Storage Solution for Your Winter Gear?
Running low on space in your home and garage? No worries. A self-storage unit is the perfect solution for seasonal storage. If you’re in the market for a storage unit, here’s what to look for:
· Climate Controlled Units: Your skis, snowboards, and clothing need protection from heat, humidity, and moisture, and climate-controlled units can help with that.
· Drive-Up Units: A drive-up unit is ideal for loading and unloading snowmobiles
· Security Features: Look for a storage facility with enhanced security features, such as 24/7 monitoring or a fully fenced perimeter. This will help to keep your gear extra safe.
· Month-to-Month Leases: Flexible lease options are great for seasonal storage, especially if you only need short-term storage during the off-season.
Get Your Gear Ready for Next Winter
It’s worth investing the time to store your winter equipment properly. Your gear will be in excellent condition when the cold and snow return. Whether you need space for skis, snowboards, snowshoes, winter clothing, and more, a Storage Star storage unit can help keep your gear organized!
If you want secure seasonal storage, find a Storage Star storage unit near you and begin your storage unit rental online today. We’re ready to assist with all your winter gear storage needs!
Danielle, Marketing
Danielle is a marketing maven with a knack for branding, storage, and organization. When she's not crafting campaigns, you'll find her sailing the high seas, getting in a fitness class, or spoiling her dog. Danielle is always up for a challenge, from developing killer marketing strategies to re-organizing her closets for the umpteenth time.
