Seasonal Maintenance for Waterfront Inflatables

Seasonal maintenance of your waterfront inflatables helps you avoid unnecessary repairs and significantly extends the life of your investment. Take the time now to properly prepare your inflatables for winter and ensure a trouble-free opening day. Below is a consolidated guide combining two separate inflatable winterization posts, retaining all bullet-pointed lists from the originals.

Why Aqua Park Experts Should Winterize Your Inflatables

Fall is the BEST time to have our Aqua Park Experts do it for you—it saves you time and hassle. Our team provides:

  • Consultation on removal, inspection, and proper shipping.
  • Inspection to uncover leaks, scrapes, or punctures.
  • Cleaning with the right equipment and proper water pressure.
  • Professional 303 protectant application before deflation and secure packing.

Cleaning Directions For Your Inflatables

Remove inflatables from the water and place them on a clean surface (like a tarp or clean plastic sheet) that’s free from sticks, rocks, or other sharp objects. This prevents holes and leaks. Wash inflatables with soapy water, using a hose and a scrub brush or soft cloth. Use caution if considering a pressure washer to avoid damaging the vinyl, and for tough stains, use products like Aurora Speed Clean. Rinse with fresh water and allow everything to air dry completely.

  • Remove inflatables from the water and place on a clean surface, free from sharp objects
  • NEVER drag inflatables over rough surfaces—it causes holes and leaks
  • Wash with a hose and scrub brush (or cloth) using soapy water
  • Rinse with fresh water; air dry completely
  • Apply 303 Protectant to keep vinyl supple and protect from UV exposure (and consider re-applying monthly during the season or as needed)

Identifying Inflatable Repair Needs / Minor Repairs

Inspect for any damaged areas or leaks by spraying soapy water on seams and joints; small bubbles indicate air leaks. Mark these with chalk or a grease pencil. Check handles, anchors, valves, and other parts for wear and tear. Order spare parts now to ensure availability for next season. Refer to your Pro Maintenance Kit and Detailed Repair Manual for minor hole or leak repairs.

  • Spray soapy water on seams and joints; look for bubbles indicating leaks
  • Mark damaged areas with chalk or grease pencil
  • Check all handles, anchors, valves, and fasteners for wear
  • Order spare parts NOW to ensure availability for next season
  • End-of-season repairs reduce your spring to-do list

Inflatable Winter Storage Directions

Deflate the inflatable using reverse mode on an electric pump or shop vacuum, ensuring all air is removed. Fold and wrap the product in its original carrying bag or a protective tarp, then secure tightly with rope or straps. Store inflatables in a dry, cool place out of direct sunlight, avoiding extreme temperatures. Use mothballs or bait blocks to deter rodents. Never store at temperatures below 40°F (5°C), directly on concrete, or in any area with broad temperature fluctuations.

  • Deflate the product using reverse mode
  • Fold and wrap in the original carrying bag or tarp, secure tightly
  • Store in a dry, cool place, out of direct sunlight and away from damp locations
  • Avoid temperatures below 40°F (5°C) or broad fluctuations
  • Use mothballs or bait blocks to prevent rodent damage

What NOT to Do With Your Inflatables

  • NEVER drag your inflatable over a rough surface—it creates holes and leaks, especially where it’s folded
  • NEVER use high-pressure cleaning equipment like a pressure washer; it can damage the vinyl

H2: Learn More About CRS Waterfront Services

  • Our specialized Waterfront Services team handles all aspects of inflatable care. We can help you:
  • Order the right parts for next season
  • Determine if you can repair on your own or need professional repair
  • Professionally clean, inspect, repair, and apply 303 Protectant before securely folding and returning your inflatables

Need assistance? Call your CRS Waterfront Specialist at 877-896-8442 to learn more about our services or to get personalized tips for maintaining your inflatables.

2 Responses to “Seasonal Maintenance for Waterfront Inflatables”

  1. Mike on

    I sometimes lose the air valves inside the cover and then have to reach in to try and find them is there a way to keep those easily accessible so they don’t fall back into the cover

    • Kelsey Silbar on

      Hi Mike,
      One of our recreation specialists will reach out to you directly to help answer your question.
      Thanks for your inquiry!