That means it’s time to start storing your warm weather gear to keep it safe and organized throughout the winter.
It’s okay to shed a tear while you pack up your boogie boards and camping equipment, but don’t worry — warmer weather will be back before you know it. You’ll get that adrenaline rush once again when you open up your storage bins next year and get back to some fun in the sun.
In the meantime, taking care of your warm-weather gear through the winter should be a top priority. Storing it properly can take some planning, but it can be done efficiently and effectively if you’re willing to put in some time and effort.
Let’s cover a few ways you can keep your summer gear safe this winter, including how to maximize your space and choose the right storage method(s) to fit your needs.
Consider Your Storage Methods
Depending on your gear and your space, there are a variety of different ways to safely store things. Larger equipment can usually be stored on its own as long as it’s covered and put somewhere secure.
Other options for sports equipment and outdoor gear include plastic totes/bins, strong mesh bags, or even cardboard boxes if you know they won’t get wet or damaged.
No matter how you choose to store your gear, there are a few things you can do to make it easier on yourself now, and much more convenient when you go to retrieve it next summer.
First, make sure everything is clean before it goes into storage. Let’s face it, outdoor gear and sporting equipment get dirty.
You don’t want to take something out of storage next year and have it smell bad, or run the risk of mold growing on it. By cleaning things off now, you’ll reduce that risk and it will be ready to use immediately when you need it.
Second, take an inventory of everything. It can help to have a sort of “master list” that reminds you what’s in each box, and where everything is going on shelves, on the floor, or put in cabinets and cupboards.
When you go to look for something specific next summer, you’ll know exactly where it is without having to disrupt anything else.
Make the Most of Small Spaces
Not everyone has a ton of storage space. Maybe you can’t take up your whole garage with your outdoor gear, or you don’t have an extra attic or shed to keep your summer belongings.
Thankfully, there are plenty of things you can do to maximize the functionality of small areas and increase your storage space.
Start by storing smarter. Consider “purging” any items you don’t need. Now is a perfect time to take stock of your summer gear and think about what gets used and what doesn’t. Donate or sell the items you know you won’t use next year, and you won’t have to worry about where you’re going to find space for it.
If you don’t have a lot of floor space, try rethinking “unused” space in your garage or shed by:
- Installing floating shelves;
- Hanging things on a pegboard;
- Hanging items from the ceiling;
- Sliding totes beneath benches or tables.
If you really want/need more storage space, it might be time to consider building a garage or updating your current one with garage-storage solutions. If you consider yourself an outdoor enthusiast with a lot of gear or your kids are involved in multiple sports, you’ll find it much easier to store things efficiently when you don’t have to cram them into smaller spaces.
Prioritize Protecting Your Gear
Deciding where to store your items is half the battle. Protecting your belongings while they’re in storage is just as important. You don’t want to open up a box or bag next summer only to find your belongings have been damaged somehow.
One of the best ways to protect your gear is to wrap your items in waterproof material. This is especially important if your storage space is damp or it’s in cardboard boxes that could potentially get wet. Any exposure to water could cause mold growth and ruin that item.
Padding should be your next priority, especially for items that could bend or break easily. You don’t have to get fancy with your padding. Try some of the following items to keep your gear safe:
- Newspapers;
- Plastic bags;
- Towels;
- Blankets.
If you want to go the extra mile, try purchasing bubble wrap or foam for more fragile items.
Finally, do what you can to keep pests out. Insects and rodents tend to make their way into garages and sheds during the winter to find warmth, but you don’t want them building nests in your gear.
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Try household items like white vinegar, Borax, and rubbing alcohol to keep them away, and regularly check for any signs of an infestation.
While you might be a little sad to put your summer gear away, that just means it’s time to break out the cross-country skis and ice skates. Keep these tips in mind to store your warm weather gear safely and efficiently, and it’ll be in great shape when you need it again.
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Image credit: storing your warm-weather gear by envato.com
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