As the outdoor season comes to an end, taking the time to correctly clean, dry and store your commercial inflatables can help protect your investment and ensure they’re ready for action when the warmer weather returns.
Whether you operate bouncy castles, inflatable slides or obstacle courses, here are just a few important tips to follow before winter storage.
Before packing anything away, remove dirt, grass, mud and other debris. Pay particular attention to seams, steps, entrances and high-traffic areas. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations when choosing cleaning products, and allow the inflatable to dry after cleaning.
Never pack away a damp inflatable for long-term storage. Trapped moisture can encourage mould and mildew and may cause unpleasant odours or damage during storage. Inflate the unit in a clean, dry environment and check folds, corners and enclosed areas carefully.
Winter is a great opportunity to identify maintenance requirements. Check seams, anchor points, netting, zips and inflatable surfaces for signs of wear or damage. Addressing repairs now means less preparation when your busy season begins again.
Remove accessories and detachable components before deflating. Follow the manufacturer’s folding and rolling instructions, keeping the inflatable as clean and compact as possible. Secure the roll appropriately and place it in its storage bag or protective cover.
Store commercial inflatables indoors in a clean, dry, well-ventilated location. Keep them away from water, excessive humidity, direct heat and pests. Where possible, keep packed inflatables raised off the floor to provide additional protection from moisture.
A little extra preparation at the end of the outdoor season can make a big difference—helping protect your inflatables throughout winter and making the start of next season considerably easier.
