A Complete Guide to Cleaning and Storing Your Pool Floats

Updated May 30, 2024

There is nothing better than a summer afternoon in the pool enjoying all your pool floats and toys. As you make the most of your pool this summer, don’t overlook the importance of cleaning your pool toys, floats, and accessories. 

Sure, your inflatable pool toys are floating around in the water all day, but that doesn’t mean that they are clean. Pool floats and toys can harbor harmful bacteria, mold, and mildew, especially if they are used frequently and not dried properly. These microorganisms can lead to skin infections, respiratory issues, and other illnesses that would definitely put a damper on summer fun.  

With a little TLC, your family and friends can enjoy clean, safe pool toys all season long and extend the life of your pool accessories.

Let’s dive into how to clean pool floaties and toys quickly and effectively.

How to Clean Pool Floats

Cleaning pool floats is straightforward and can be done effectively with the right materials and techniques. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you clean your pool floats. 

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Cleaning Supplies 

• Mild soap or dish detergent
• Sponge, soft brush, or scrubbing mitt
• Bucket
• Hose or access to running water
• Towel or cloth
• Bleach (optional, for tough mold and mildew)
• White vinegar (optional)
• Spray bottle (optional)

Step 2: Prep the Float

Remove the pool float from the pool and let it drain thoroughly. Lay the float on a clean surface, such as a deck or patio. 

Step 3: Rinse Off Debris

Use a hose or clean water to rinse off the float. This will get rid of any loose dirt, debris, and pool chemicals that may be on the floatie. 

Step 4: Prepare Cleaning Solution

Mix a solution of mild soap or dish detergent with warm water in a bucket. 

Alternatively, you can use a mixture of white vinegar and water (1 part vinegar to 2 parts water) for a more natural cleaning approach. Use a spray bottle for easy application. 

Step 5: Scrub Your Pool Float

Dip a sponge or soft brush into the water and soap solution and scrub the surface of the float. 

Pay extra attention to areas with visible dirt, stains, or mildew. For stubborn spots, you may need to scrub a bit harder or use a brush.

Be gentle and test a small area first to avoid damaging your float and avoid using super abrasive brushes or scrubbers. Our SCRUB-O Pool & Spa Scrubbing Mitt is a gentle and safe option for pool liners, floats, and toys. 

Tackle Tough Stains and Mold

For tough stains or mold, it may be necessary to use a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water).

Apply the solution with a sponge, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub and rinse thoroughly. 

If using bleach, wear gloves and work outside or in a well-ventilated area. Also, keep the solution away from your liner to avoid accidental bleach stains or damage. . 

Step 6: Rinse the Float Thoroughly

Once you’ve scrubbed the entire float, rinse it thoroughly with clean water from the hose to remove any soap residue and debris.

Step 7: Dry the Float

Wipe down the float with a towel or cloth to remove excess water. Allow the float to air dry completely before storing it. This helps prevent mold and mildew growth.

Vinyl or plastic pool floats tend to dry quickly, usually within a few hours. Fabric-covered floats may take longer, even overnight.

To speed up the drying process:

• Place the float on a drying rack or prop it up so air can circulate around it.
• Flip the float periodically to ensure all sides dry evenly.
• Take advantage of direct sunlight and a warm breeze 
• Dry the float in a location with low humidity and good ventilation.

How Often Should You Clean Your Pool Floats?

If you use your pool floats regularly throughout the summer, cleaning them once a week is a good practice. Weekly cleanings help prevent the buildup of grime, sunscreen, body oils, and other residues that can accumulate with frequent use. 

If you’ve had a pool party or used your floats at a public pool, it’s a good idea to clean them afterward. You’ll want to remove any contaminants introduced by multiple users and prevent stains and odors.

You should also clean your pool floats immediately if you use them in saltwater, lakes, rivers, or ponds whether there might be algae or other contaminants.

How to Store Your Pool Floats

Once the float is completely clean and dry, it’s important to store it properly to prevent fading and material degradation.

Pool Float Storage for Summer

Store the floats in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent damage or getting blown away when not in use. Ideal storage locations include a pool shed, basement, or garage with easy access to the floats when you want to use them. 

If possible, keep large floats off the ground using hooks or racks. This will help them dry properly and keep them from getting dirty, wet, or damaged. 

For smaller floats and pool toys, use a large plastic pool toy bin with a lid to protect from wind, mice, and spiders. 

Pool Float Storage for Winter

Similar to the summer, you want to store clean, dry pool floats and toys in an area protected from sunlight and pests and out of your way for the offseason. 

Floats and toys should be deflated and rolled up for the winter, if possible. Placed the deflated floats in a sealed storage container or pool toy bin to avoid popping, tears, and punctures.

For large floats that don’t deflate, use shelves or hooks and avoid high-traffic areas. Cover the float with a tarp or plastic for extra protection.

It’s best to bring your pool floats and toys into a warm area for the off-season, such as a heated basement, garage, or storage facility. Label the bins and floats so you can easily find them when you open your swimming pool in the spring or summer. 

Be sure to check your floats periodically throughout the winter months to inspect for any damage and avoid any nasty surprises in the spring. 

Stock Up On Pool Floats & Toys from LinerWorld

LinerWorld is here for all your summer fun with the coolest pool floaties, toys, and accessories. Shop now to grab your favorite before they’re gone! 

Giant Avocado Float

Easy Couch

Giant Unicorn Boat

Donut Float – Strawberry

Donut Float – Chocolate

Aquadolce Deluxe Pool Lounger

Neoprene Dive Sticks (Set of 3)

Neoprene Glove & Ball Set

Neoprene Catch Ball Set

More Pool Cleaning Resources:

• 9 Easy Pool Liner Cleaning Tips Every Owner Should Follow
• How to Sanitize your Pool, Patio, and Pool Accessories