If you’re a proud owner of an inflatable paddle board, you know how awesome it is—portable, lightweight, and perfect for chasing calm lakes or gentle ocean waves. But like any outdoor gear, it needs a little love to stay in top shape. I’ve had my inflatable paddle board for three seasons now, and after learning a few hard lessons (RIP to my first board’s valve, which I neglected), I’ve put together a simple, no-fuss guide to keeping yours in great condition.
1. Rinse It (and Your Gear!) Off Every Single Time
This is the easiest step, but it’s also the one people skip most often. Whether you’ve been paddling in saltwater, freshwater, or even a muddy river, always rinse your inflatable paddle board, paddle, and any other paddling accessories with fresh water after use. Saltwater is brutal—it eats away at the board’s PVC material, the valve, and even your paddle over time. Even lake water can leave behind algae or minerals that build up and dull your gear.
I keep a small garden hose near my garage, but if you’re at a launch site without water, just wipe everything down with a damp cloth and rinse properly when you get home. Don’t use soap unless it’s absolutely necessary (like if you get oil or sunscreen on the board)—and if you do, stick to mild, biodegradable soap. Harsh detergents will break down the board’s protective coating and damage your paddle’s grip.
2. Add UV Protection (Your Board Will Thank You)
Inflatable paddle boards are tough, but prolonged exposure to direct sunlight is their silent enemy. The sun’s intense UV rays fade the board’s color, weaken the PVC material, and shorten its lifespan overall. When your board’s not in use—whether you’re taking a break mid-paddle or storing it temporarily—always set it in a shady area.
For extra protection (especially if you paddle often in sunny spots), give your board an occasional wipe down with 303 UV Protectant Spray. It’s a simple step that keeps the material strong and your board looking newer, longer. Important note: Skip the traction pad! Spraying UV protectant on the pad can make it slippery, which is a safety risk when you’re standing and paddling.
3. Dry It Thoroughly Before Storing
Mold and mildew thrive in damp spaces—and a wet inflatable paddle board is the perfect home for them. If you roll up a damp board, you’ll come back to a funky smell, stained material, and even mold that’s hard to remove. After rinsing, lay the board flat in a shaded area and let it air dry completely.
Pro tip: Flip it over halfway through to make sure the bottom (which touches the water and sand) dries too. If you’re in a hurry, use a microfiber towel to pat down the surface—just don’t rub too hard, as that can scratch the PVC. And don’t forget the valve! Wipe around it with a towel to remove any leftover water that could cause rust or damage.
4. Deflate It Properly (Don’t Rush This!)
When it’s time to pack up, deflating your inflatable paddle board the right way prevents unnecessary stretching or tears. First, open all the valves to let the air out naturally—don’t squeeze or press the board to force air out (this strains the material). Once most of the air is gone, start rolling the board from the nose (the front) towards the tail (the back). Roll it tightly enough to save space, but not so tight that you’re pulling the PVC.
As you roll, you’ll push out any remaining air—pause to open the valve again if you need to release more. Once it’s fully rolled, secure it with the straps that come with your board. Never fold your inflatable paddle board (folding creates creases that weaken the material over time)—always roll it!
5. Store It in a Cool, Dry Place
Where you store your inflatable paddle board matters more than you think. Avoid spots with direct sunlight (like a porch, balcony, or hot car)—we already talked about how UV rays damage the material. Also, steer clear of damp areas (like a basement with moisture or a garage floor that gets wet) to keep mold away.
I store mine in a large storage bin in my garage—cool, dry, and out of the way. If you don’t have a bin, hang it on a wall rack (just make sure the rack is wide enough to support the rolled board, so it doesn’t sag). Never stack heavy things on top of your stored board—this can damage the valve or warp the shape, making it harder to inflate properly next time.
6. Check for Damage Regularly (and Fix Small Issues Fast)
Even if you’re careful, small nicks, tears, or leaks can happen—especially if you paddle in areas with rocks or sharp debris. Get in the habit of checking your inflatable paddle board before each use. Look for:
- Tiny holes or tears in the PVC (these are often hard to spot—run your hand over the surface to feel for bumps, thin spots, or rough edges)
- Loose or damaged valves (if the valve feels wobbly, it might need to be tightened or replaced)
- Wear and tear on the fins (the small fins on the bottom can get stuck on rocks—make sure they’re still secure and not cracked)
If you find a small hole, don’t panic! Most inflatable paddle boards (like Fbsport models, for example) come with a repair kit. Clean the area with rubbing alcohol, apply the patch, and let it dry for 24 hours before using the board again. For bigger damage, or if you’re not confident in DIY fixes, take it to a professional. And if you need guidance, there are tons of easy-to-follow tutorials online that walk you through simple repairs step by step—no experience required.
7. Don’t Overinflate It
It’s tempting to pump your inflatable paddle board up as much as possible to make it feel stiff and stable, but overinflating is a big risk. Too much air can stretch the PVC material, cause it to burst, or even damage the valve. Every inflatable paddle board has a recommended PSI (pounds per square inch)—you’ll find this number on a sticker on the board or in the user manual.
Invest in a good air pump with a pressure gauge (the cheap pumps without gauges are risky!). Stop pumping once you hit the recommended PSI—you don’t need to go above it. The board will still be stiff enough for safe, stable paddling, and you’ll avoid costly damage.
Final Thought: Treat It Like Your Favorite Gear
At the end of the day, caring for your inflatable paddle board is simple—just treat it like something you love. A few minutes of rinsing, a quick UV spray, proper drying, and smart storage will make sure it’s ready for every adventure, whether that’s a weekend trip to the lake or a casual paddle after work.
I’ve seen friends go through inflatable paddle boards in a year because they skipped these steps, while mine still looks and performs like new. Put in a little effort now, and you’ll be paddling for seasons to come.
Have any other inflatable paddle board care tips? Drop them in the comments—I’d love to hear what works for you!
