Stand Up Paddle Board Maintenance: Care Guide

If you’re like me, you love spending time outdoors on the water. Whether it’s kayaking, canoeing, or paddle boarding, there’s just something about being out on the open water that is so relaxing and therapeutic. But if you want to be able to enjoy your time on the water for years to come, it’s important to exercise good stand up paddle board maintenance habits. In this blog post, we will discuss how to clean and maintain your paddle board so that it stays in good condition for seasons to come!

Rinse Your Paddle Board

You may think that since the paddle board just came out of the water, it doesn’t need to be rinsed off. However, this isn’t the case! When you’re done paddling, rinse your paddle board with fresh water to remove any residue or dirt that may be on the surface. This will help keep your board looking like new.

Clean Your Board

After you’ve rinsed off the board, it’s time for a more thorough cleaning. Begin by mixing up a solution of mild soap and warm water and use a sponge or other soft cloth to wipe down your paddle board. Make sure that you get into all of the crevices, as dirt and debris can build up here if left unchecked. After you’re done cleaning the surface, rinse off the soap with fresh water and dry thoroughly using a clean towel.

Keeping it dry when not in use will help prevent additional problems. Clean your board after you’ve used it, especially in salt water, to prevent dirt, sand, or bacteria from damaging the board. Keeping it dry will also help avoid mold and mildew growth, especially if you store it in a bag.

Store Your Paddle Board Properly

When storing your paddle board, make sure that it is in a dry area away from direct sunlight and windy environments. Exposure to these elements can cause fading and damage over time. It’s one thing to use your paddle board in the sun, but it’s another thing entirely to leave your board stored in a place where it is exposed to the elements for an extended period. UV rays can damage and discolor the finish, and exposure to the sun can cause heat damage, such as cracking or splitting. Instead, store your board in the shade or a cool, dry garage.

Additionally, consider investing in a waterproof storage bag for added protection when transporting your paddle board from place to place.

Stand Up Paddle Board Maintenance and Repair

Over time, your paddle board will require maintenance and possible repair. If you notice any cracks or dents in the board’s surface, have them professionally repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage from occurring. Additionally, it is a good idea to give your paddle board an annual tune-up to check for any loose hardware or worn parts that may need replacing.

Whether you take paddle boarding very seriously or are a beginner to paddle boarding, consider using a professional service to inspect and tune up your board regularly.

Not ready for all the maintenance that comes with owning a paddle board? Don’t sweat it! Resort Boat Rentals rents stand-up paddle boards throughout the spring and summer for cruising on Lake Coeur d’Alene and the surrounding waterways.