Inspect and prepare your board after storage using its own care manual before returning equipment to service. Check the instructions for your exact SUP model; guidance differs between makers.
Work through the practical choices
Unpack the board in a clean, well-lit area and inspect both sides, seams, fittings, bag and accessories. Look for damp, dirt, pests, cracks, scuffs, loose parts or changes in shape. Check the pump, hose, leash, paddle and fin separately. If you find damage or an unfamiliar change, consult the maker before use rather than attempting an improvised fix.
Clean only as the maker permits, then let equipment dry fully. For an inflatable, use the exact manual for valve operation, inflation sequence and pressure; there is no universal PSI. Fit fins and other removable parts as directed. Check that supports and fixings used for storage remain sound and have not shifted. Store parts together and refresh the checklist for after the next outing.
Related guides: start with the storage chooser, inflatable board care, garage storage.
Inspect before planning the first outing
Unpack the board somewhere you can see all surfaces. Check for obvious damage, unexpected changes around fittings and anything that needs the maker’s attention. Find the manual before making adjustments; a storage guide cannot approve a repair or replace the manufacturer’s checks.
Lay out the pump, hose, paddle sections and detachable fins alongside the board and account for the parts you stored. If a component is missing or damaged, resolve it before relying on the equipment. For preparation and safety on the water, use appropriate paddling guidance beyond the scope of this storage site.
Sources & further reading
Manufacturer guidance checked 2026-10-25. Check the instructions for your exact board and model before acting.