How to Prepare Your Boat for Long-Term Storage | Essential Tips

Bainbridge Storage Units
June 6th, 2025

How to Prepare Your Boat for Long-Term Storage

If you're preparing your boat for long-term storage, a little effort now can save you time, money, and frustration down the road. Whether you’re storing for the off-season or taking an extended break from the water, proper boat storage ensures your marine investment stays in excellent condition. From winterizing the engine to choosing the right storage space, this guide walks you through the essential steps to protect your boat — inside and out.

Why Proper Boat Storage Matters

Boats are built for the water — not long stretches of inactivity. When left unprotected, exposure to the elements can lead to mold, corrosion, engine damage, and electrical issues. That’s why preparing your boat for long-term storage is about more than just covering it up — it’s about maintenance, protection, and planning ahead.

Clean and Inspect Before Storage

Start with a deep clean:

Wash the hull and topsides to remove salt, dirt, and grime.
Empty and clean out compartments, including live wells, coolers, and storage lockers.
Clean the bilge and make sure it’s completely dry to prevent mildew.
Inspect for damage, cracks, or wear while cleaning — this is your chance to catch problems early.

Apply a protective wax to the hull and condition any vinyl or upholstery to prevent cracking during storage.

Protecting the Engine and Fuel System

Your engine is one of the most valuable parts of your vessel, and it requires careful attention before storage:

Flush the engine with fresh water to remove salt and debris.
Change the oil and replace filters to prevent old oil from breaking down and causing corrosion.
Add fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from degrading and clogging the system.
Run the engine briefly to circulate the stabilizer and lubricate internal components.
If you're storing during cold months, don’t skip the winterizing process — including draining water from the engine block and adding antifreeze where needed.

Battery, Fluids, and Electrical Systems

Don’t leave your electrical systems vulnerable:

Disconnect and remove the battery if possible. Store it in a cool, dry place and keep it charged.
Top off fluids like coolant, power steering, and transmission fluid.
Spray terminals with anti-corrosion spray and inspect all wiring for fraying or loose connections.

Should You Shrink Wrap or Use a Cover?

Both options protect your boat, but they serve different needs:

Shrink wrap offers tight, weather-resistant protection and is ideal for long-term outdoor storage.
Boat covers are a reusable option that can still offer solid protection from UV rays and dirt — especially if you’re storing under a covered structure.

Be sure whichever option you choose allows for some ventilation to prevent mold buildup.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Boat Storage

Choosing the right type of storage space is a key part of long-term boat care:

Indoor storage offers full protection from the elements but is typically more expensive and limited in availability.
Outdoor storage is more affordable and accessible, especially in areas with mild winters — just make sure your boat is well-covered and secure.

Not sure where to store your boat this season? Check out our secure Bainbridge boat storage facility on Spring Creek Road — designed for convenience, protection, and peace of mind.

Final Checklist Before Locking Up

Here’s a quick rundown to make sure you’ve covered all your bases:

✅ Clean and dry all surfaces
✅ Flush and protect the engine
✅ Add fuel stabilizer and top off fluids
✅ Remove and charge the battery
✅ Cover or shrink wrap the boat
✅ Double-check all hatches and compartments are sealed
✅ Secure your vessel in a safe, dry location

Looking for a trusted place to store your boat in Bainbridge? Reserve your space at our Spring Creek Road location today for convenient, affordable, and secure long-term storage.