How To Store A Paddle Board (So It Doesn’t Get Warped And Mouldy!)

Knowing how to store a paddle board properly is essential for maintaining its longevity and performance.

According to Guinness World Records, “The largest stand-up paddle surfing (SUP) board measures 14.85 m (48 ft 8.65 in) in length and was achieved by Tropical (Spain) in Playa de Las Canteras, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain, on 25 September 2016.“

Thank goodness we’re not trying to store that board!

In this guide on how to store a paddle board, we’ll explore various storage solutions such as racks, suspended systems, inflatable SUP board storage techniques, outdoor storage guidelines, and crucial maintenance tips after each use.

How To Store A Paddle Board: Indoor Storage Options

When looking to store paddle boards indoors, you want to avoid extreme temperature fluctuations by selecting a cool, dry area with consistent temperatures throughout the year.

Basements and garages are popular, but ensure they’re well-ventilated and moisture-free. 

Keep your board from direct sunlight exposure, which can cause damage over time.

Storing Your Paddle Board on a Rack

If you’ve spent a lot of money on your paddle board, displaying it on the wall can be fun.

A storage rack system can be freestanding or mounted on the wall. 

Racks distribute weight evenly across the entire surface of the board, preventing damage from uneven pressure points and keeping boards off the floor to protect them from moisture and scratches.

REI has some great paddleboard racks that you can check out.

Proper Positioning Of Your SUP On A Rack

Always place your SUP horizontally with its deck facing up to ensure optimal support while storing a paddle board indoors or outdoors.

This position will prevent potential warping caused by long-term storage in an improper orientation.

Tips For Choosing The Right Storage Rack:

• Determine how many paddle boards you need to store: Some racks can hold multiple boards, so choose one that accommodates your needs.
• Consider the rack’s weight capacity: Ensure it can support the combined weight of all your paddle boards without causing any strain on its structure.
• Look for adjustable racks: These allow you to customize their height and width according to your storage requirements.

Suspended Storage Solutions

Consider these options if you want to maximize vertical space and add an extra layer of security.

1. Ceiling hooks can be used to suspend your SUP horizontally or vertically. Storing paddle boards from the ceiling frees up valuable floor space.

2. Wall pegs allow you to lean your paddle board against them without worrying about it falling over. Make sure they are padded to prevent damage to your board.

Outdoor Storage Guidelines

Follow these guidelines for storing your paddle board outdoors to keep it in top condition:

• Avoid areas with direct sunlight exposure – choose shaded spots whenever possible.
• Select locations with minimal risk of flooding during heavy rainstorms or snowmelt periods.
• Inflate/deflate inflatable boards periodically if stored inflated long-term – this helps maintain their shape and structural integrity.
• Cover solid boards with padding materials like foam blocks or blankets before securing them onto racks or suspending systems – this prevents scratches and dents during storage periods.

Protecting Your Paddle Board From UV Rays and Theft

If you opt for outdoor storage, make sure your paddle board is protected from the elements like direct sunlight, extreme temperatures and theft. 

Using a UV protective spray or cream on your board will help prevent damage caused by harmful rays.

Additionally, threading a durable security cable through the leash loop of your SUP can deter theft when stored outside.

Inflatable Boards Storage

When it comes to paddle board storage, inflatable boards offer a significant advantage over their solid counterparts. Their ability to be deflated and rolled up allows for more convenient and space-saving storage options.

Tips for Storing Inflatable Paddle Boards Indoors

• Avoid direct sunlight exposure: Store your paddle board in a cool, dry place away from windows where sunlight could cause fading or other damage.
• Properly deflate your inflatable stand-up board: Check the manufacturer’s recommendations on proper deflation techniques.
• Create enough space around the stored item: This prevents accidental punctures or scratches caused by surrounding objects like furniture or exercise equipment.

Tips for Storing Inflatable Paddle Boards Outdoors

• Use a protective cover: A UV-resistant cover can help protect your paddle board from harmful sun rays and weather elements when stored outside.
• Secure the board against theft: If you’re storing your inflatable SUP outdoors, consider using a security cable or lock to deter potential thieves.

Preparing Your Board For Storage

If you don’t properly prepare your board before storage, you could risk damage and decrease the life span of your beloved toy.

Clean Your Paddle Board

The 1st step in preparing your paddle board for storage is to clean it thoroughly using fresh water and mild soap.

Remove any debris that could cause damage to the surface of the board during storage.

Also, make sure to dry the board completely before storing it away (or you could end up with mould and mildew, EWWW!)

Distribute Weight Evenly

When storing a solid paddle board, ensure that weight is evenly distributed across its surface area. 

This will prevent pressure points from forming, which could damage the shape of your board over time. 

You can also consider using padding materials like foam blocks or towels between boards if stacking them up against each other during long-term storage.

Remove Accessories

Before storing your paddle board away (for long periods), remove accessories such as fins, camera holders and leashes.

These items could puncture or cause damage to your paddle board during storage, so we want to store them separately.

Ease Of Access

If you are storing your board in between uses, you want to make sure that it is easy enough to get to when you want to use it. 

If you have to climb to the back of the garage and move several things to get to it, you probably won’t use it very often!

FAQs about How to Store a Paddle Board

Is it Better To Store an Inflatable Paddle Board Inflated or Deflated?

To avoid damage to your inflatable SUP during storage, deflate the air out after cleaning and drying, then fold it neatly into the carry bag provided for easier transportation without taking up too much space at home.

How to Store a Paddle Board for Winter?

Here are some tips on paddle board storage for winter:

1. Clean and completely dry your paddleboard. If it is inflatable, deflate it.

2. Distribute weight evenly and avoid pressure points on solid boards.

3. Store your board in a moisture-free area that is away from direct sunlight.

Should I Roll or Fold My Paddle Board?

You should roll your paddle board from front to tail with the pump laid inside. This makes it easy for you to put the board and pump it back into the storage bag when not in use.

Can I Store My Paddle Board Inflated?

If you are storing it between uses, you can store your board inflated in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. However, I suggest deflating it by 20%.

For long-term storage, I suggest deflating it completely before storage.

Before You Go…

Awesome, now you know how to store a paddle board! For me, the most important thing is to ensure your paddle board is clean and dry before storing it away for any length of time.

Looking for another interesting read? Find out how many calories you can burn paddleboarding in my articles below.

Calorie Burn From Paddle Boarding