How to Store Pool Equipment and Summer Items in a Storage Unit

As the days grow warmer, the thought of lounging by the pool and enjoying sunny weather becomes increasingly tempting. But once the cooler months roll in, storing pool equipment and summer items properly becomes just as important as using them during the season. If you're looking for a convenient way to clear up your space at home while keeping your pool gear safe and in good condition, a storage unit can be the perfect solution.

A 10 by 10 storage unit can offer the ideal amount of space to store your seasonal items like pool toys, floats, and cleaning equipment. However, effective storage goes beyond just piling everything in. There are key practices you should follow to ensure your items are protected and organized, making them ready to use when the warm weather returns.

1. Clean Everything Thoroughly Before Storing

Before packing away your pool equipment and summer items in a 10 by 10 storage unit, it’s crucial to give everything a good cleaning. Storing dirty items can lead to mold, mildew, or unpleasant odors over time. Pool accessories, in particular, can trap dirt and debris, which can cause damage if left untreated.

• Pool Toys and Floats: Wash all pool floats, noodles, and toys to remove chlorine, sand, and dirt. If possible, let them air dry completely before storing them to prevent moisture from becoming trapped inside, which can cause mold and mildew.
  
  

• Cleaning Equipment: Scrub and rinse off any pool cleaning tools, such as brushes, skimmers, and nets, before storage. Dry them thoroughly, as excess moisture can lead to rust or other damage.
  
  

• Pool Covers and Furniture: If you're storing pool covers or outdoor furniture, give them a thorough wash. For covers, ensure they're completely dry before folding to prevent mildew growth.
  
  

A good cleaning routine helps keep your items in top condition and prevents dirt and grime from damaging them while they’re stored away.

2. Properly Disassemble and Store Larger Items

When it comes to larger pool equipment like ladders, pool heaters, and inflatable structures, disassembly can save you a lot of space in your 10 by 10 storage unit. These items take up significant room if stored as is, but breaking them down can free up space for other essentials.

• Pool Ladders: If you have a pool ladder, remove any detachable parts and store them separately. This not only saves space but also prevents bending or warping of metal parts.
  
  

• Inflatable Pools: If you use an inflatable pool, make sure to deflate it completely before storing it. Fold it neatly and store it in a durable bag to protect it from punctures and tears.
  
  

• Furniture: If your poolside furniture is collapsible, fold it up to save space. Store cushions separately in breathable storage bags to avoid mildew or mold buildup.
  
  

When you disassemble larger items, you also protect them from accidental damage that could occur during storage, such as crushing or warping.

3. Use the Right Storage Containers

Investing in the right containers and packing materials for your summer items will help protect them from the elements and keep them organized. Plastic bins, shelving units, and zippered bags are all excellent choices for protecting smaller items and keeping them neatly arranged.

• Plastic Bins: Use clear plastic bins for items like pool chemicals, sunscreen, and small toys. Clear bins allow you to see the contents without opening them, making it easier to locate what you need when you’re ready to take out your summer items next season.
  
  

• Heavy-Duty Bags: Store pool covers, towels, and cushions in heavy-duty, waterproof bags. This will keep moisture away from fabric items and prevent mold growth.
  
  

• Shelving: If your 10 by 10 storage unit allows for shelving, use it to organize smaller items. This will help keep your items off the floor and free from dust and moisture that may accumulate at ground level.
  
  

Proper storage containers help preserve the condition of your belongings, and they keep everything easy to access when you're ready to use them again.

4. Elevate Items Off the Floor

As you organize your 10 by 10 storage unit, consider elevating your belongings off the floor. In warmer climates, such as Houston, where humidity can be high even in non-rainy months, moisture on the floor can lead to mold or rust. Storing items off the ground helps prevent these issues and also ensures that they stay dry.

• Wooden Pallets: Place your items on wooden pallets to elevate them above any moisture that may collect on the floor of the storage unit. This allows for better air circulation and can help prevent mold growth.
  
  

• Shelving Units: As mentioned earlier, use shelves to keep your items organized and off the floor. This also makes it easier to access your pool toys, chemicals, and other small items when you need them.
  
  

The key is to avoid storing anything directly on the ground to protect your items from potential water damage during storage.

5. Keep an Inventory

When storing seasonal items like pool equipment, it's easy to forget exactly what you've packed away. A well-organized storage unit will help you keep track of everything, but taking it a step further with an inventory list ensures you won't be left searching for items when you open the unit next season.

• Create a List: Write down every item you’re storing and keep a copy of this list inside the storage unit. You can even make notes about where certain items are stored within the unit (e.g., "Pool floats in bin to the left" or "Cushions on the top shelf").
  
  

• Label Containers: Don’t just label the containers with general terms like “pool items.” Instead, be specific. Label bins with exact contents, like “inflatable pool toys” or “pool cleaning equipment,” so you can easily locate what you need.
  
  

An inventory helps prevent frustration and ensures that when you're ready to set up your pool again, everything is where you expect it to be.

6. Avoid Storing Harmful Pool Chemicals Improperly

Pool chemicals like chlorine and algaecides can be hazardous if stored incorrectly. It’s important to take special precautions when storing these items in your 10 by 10 storage unit to avoid accidents.

• Seal Containers: Always make sure chemical containers are tightly sealed and stored upright. Leaks can cause damage to your other belongings and create potential safety hazards.
  
  

• Proper Ventilation: Store pool chemicals in an area of the unit that is well-ventilated. This helps to minimize the buildup of fumes that can result from heat or humidity.
  
  

• Avoid Overheating: Pool chemicals should never be stored in extreme heat. Although your storage unit is likely shielded from direct sunlight, if you’re storing chemicals in a unit without climate control, be mindful of the high temperatures they may endure in the summer heat.
  
  

By being cautious with chemical storage, you reduce the risk of accidents while protecting your other items from damage.

7. Arrange for Easy Access

Finally, think about how you’ll access your items when the next summer rolls around. A 10 by 10 storage unit can be quite full, especially after packing away pool equipment, floats, and outdoor furniture. To avoid a frustrating experience when you need something quickly, place the items you’ll need first near the front of the unit.

• Frequently Used Items: Store items like pool chemicals, floats, and cleaning supplies near the door for easy access when you’re ready to open the pool for the season.
  
  

• Less Frequently Used Items: Items like outdoor furniture, covers, and spare parts can be stored further back, as they won’t be needed right away.
  
  

This will make setting up your pool and summer gear a much smoother process when the time comes.

Conclusion

Storing your pool equipment and summer items in a 10 by 10 storage unit is an excellent way to keep everything organized and protected during the offseason. By following a few simple steps—cleaning, disassembling, packing, and organizing your gear—you can ensure your items remain in good condition and are ready to go when the weather turns warm again. With a little care and preparation, your summer items will stay safe, dry, and organized, giving you peace of mind until the next season arrives!