How to Store Outdoor Play Equipment

Swing sets, trampolines, and soccer nets are built for fun, but they’re not designed to live outside forever. Sun, rain, and cold weather can wear them down quickly if they’re left out year-round. Storing outdoor play equipment properly helps it last longer, keeps your yard tidy, and makes it easier to bring everything back out when the season starts again.

Clean Before You Pack Away

Play equipment collects plenty of dirt, pollen, and moisture during the season. Before storage, give everything a good cleaning. Wipe down plastic slides and playhouses with mild soap and water, dry them thoroughly, and brush dirt off metal frames. This extra step helps prevent mildew and rust from showing up later.

Take It Apart for Easier Storage

Large items like swing sets, trampolines, or basketball hoops can eat up a lot of space. Disassembling them makes transport and storage much simpler. Keep screws, bolts, and smaller parts in labeled bags, and tape them directly to the frame or store them in a bin so nothing gets lost. For trampolines, roll up mats and nets once they’re dry and stash them in breathable bags.

Sports nets, soccer goals, and other collapsible items are easy to break down into smaller pieces. Not only does this save room in your storage unit, but it also helps the materials hold their shape until you need them again.

Choose the Right Storage Unit

The size of your equipment determines how much space you’ll need. Smaller items like balls, bats, or jump ropes can be tucked into a few bins inside a 5×5 storage unit. Larger structures, like slides, trampolines, or a disassembled swing set, often fit comfortably in a 5×10 or 10×10 unit. If you’re storing for only part of the year, a short-term rental may be the most efficient option.

Organize for Easy Access

A little organization goes a long way. Store accessories like balls, helmets, or nets in clear plastic bins so you can see exactly what’s inside. Place bins on shelves or pallets to keep them tidy and off the ground. Soft items like mats or fabric covers should go in breathable bags, while metal frames can be stacked neatly along the side of your unit.

Protect While in Storage

Covers aren’t just for cars—use them for play equipment too. Slip cloths or fitted covers over large pieces to protect against dust. Avoid stacking heavy bins on top of lightweight plastic slides or mats, since they can warp under pressure.

Ready for the Next Round of Fun

When playtime is on pause, proper storage keeps your equipment safe until it’s time to set it all up again. A little cleaning, disassembly, and organization now means your kids will be back on the swing set or trampoline in no time—and you’ll save money by making the gear last longer.