Drying an inflatable kayak is a tricky task. If you’re using the wrong method, your boat can get damaged. To dry your kayak correctly, you’ll have to ensure it’s scorched after every use. This guide explains how to do it:
Sun Dry
The first option is the simplest: throw it in the sun! This can take a while, but if you’re not in a hurry and don’t mind spending some time drying out your kayak, this method is for you.
Just make sure that you keep an eye on it. If your kayak gets too hot or melts, move it somewhere else or put something over it until things cool down. It works best if you select a sunny day (and try not to be too close to any windows) so the sun’s rays can do their job on your boat.
Sunlight penetrates the creases and corners of the kayak, allowing it to breathe. To prevent creases, you can fold them flat before putting them in the sun. Leaving the kayak partially inflated is an excellent way to keep it fresh for several days.
While good quality inflatable kayaks and rafts are resistant to the sun’s UV rays, prolonged exposure will weaken the material and leak. Using a UV protectant, available at inflatable kayak stores, will extend the life of your kayak.
The UV protectant will not affect the kayak’s performance, but it will extend its life and avoid premature deterioration of your kayak.
Use a Blow-dry
Another way to dry out your kayak is with a blow dryer. You’ll need one of these handy appliances (and maybe some towels) if you want to try this method out. The idea here is simple: plug in the blow-dryer and set it on high heat for about 15 minutes, and this should be enough time for most kayaks.
The best way to dry your inflatable kayak is to blow it up entirely and flip it over to air out. Using a blow-dry will help to expose hidden creases and corners, which are difficult to dry by hand.
This method is also beneficial for preventing mold since the sun doesn’t reach hard-to-reach areas. Nevertheless, avoid this method to keep your inflatable kayak looking new.
Use a Micro Fiber Cloth
A microfiber cloth is an excellent way to dry an inflatable kayak. Be sure to use towels to soak up any excess water. You can also use towels to dry the inside of the kayak.
Make sure to wipe all the inside surfaces dry. Leaving your inflatable kayak in the sun will not dry the hard-to-reach parts, resulting in mold growth. And it’s not worth the risk if your kayak has a hole or a crease.
To dry an inflatable kayak, you should thoroughly wipe the inside and outside surfaces with a clean microfiber cloth. Be sure to wipe the bottom of the kayak as well, as grit and moisture can cause discoloration.
You can also use a large towel to dry your kayak underneath. After you’ve dried your kayak, roll it upside down to allow it to dry completely, and this will prevent sand and moisture from getting trapped underneath the kayak.
Using a Ph Balanced Solution
Another method for drying an inflatable kayak is using a spray bottle filled with water and rubbing alcohol. This process will take about three days, depending on how much water leaks into your kayak when you put it away after use (if you put it in a bag instead of letting the air blow over it).
Use an Air Dry
The final method is hanging up your inflatable kayak by its handles and letting it dry naturally over time: this may take up to two weeks.
Inflatable kayaks are very popular for their durability. You can put them into the trunk of your car, where rigid boats require lifting onto a vehicle. Inflatable kayaks are also cheaper than rigid boats.
However, they must be scorched to avoid mold and damp smells. To dry them out properly, you must use an air conditioner.
Inflatable kayaks require some time to inflate and deflate, so be sure to use a dual-action pump to keep them clean. While a double-action pump is best, it is much easier to clean a single-piece kayak.
Mold and mildew can build up on your inflatable kayak between trips, and the tubes’ fabric takes time to dry. To avoid mildew and mold, keep a spare towel handy to wipe down any spots and clean it immediately after a trip.
If you do not clean your kayak after every use, it will accumulate a mould layer. The best way to prevent this is to use fresh water to rinse the kayak. It would help if you cleaned it as soon as you got it home to avoid any potential damage.
Storage Bags for Inflatable Kayaks
When shopping for storage bags for inflatable kayaks, you’ll want to look for the highest-denier fabric. While these are available at many different price ranges, they’re all durable and water-resistant. These fabrics are commonly used for dress shirts and are also often used for car covers.
Canvas bags are a good option for storage. Although not waterproof, they keep out most bugs and are especially good for garage and shed storage. They are also durable, and higher denier counts mean a thicker bag.
Storage bags for inflatable kayaks should have enough room to store all the accessories you need for an exciting trip. However, if you want to keep your kayak in your home, you’ll need to find a place with good ventilation. You can also find storage bags for inflatable kayaks that fit under the roof.
Don’t Forget To Store Them Right
Once you’ve put the rubber plugs back on and let the kayak dry for a day, you should be ready to go. The last thing you want to do is put the kayak back in after it’s still damp on the inside because that can lead to mold and mildew. But if you give it enough time to dry out thoroughly, you won’t have any problems with it.
