6 Storage Ideas for Pool Floats and Water Toys
There are few things quite as refreshing as a dip in the pool on a hot summer day. With summer parties in full swing, you might have accumulated a slew of pool floats, noodles, and other water toys for both kids and adults. Whether you're relaxing in your own backyard pool or taking the family to the neighborhood waterpark, pool toy cleanup could soon be on your to-do list.
We've rounded up the easiest pool float storage ideas to help you to control the clutter and keep your pool toys in good shape all season long. With these pool toy storage ideas, you can focus less on the mess and more on the poolside umbrella drinks.
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1. Repurpose a Laundry Basket
This pool toy storage idea is an easy, eco-friendly way to get organized. Give new life to an old laundry hamper by using it to store long, narrow toys, such as pool noodles, upright. A round, plastic hamper with holes, or one with mesh fabric, allows for easy ventilation so items dry faster and last longer. For smaller pool toys, like beach balls and water blasters, a rectangular plastic hamper works well for storage. Or opt for a collapsible design that can easily be tucked away when not in use.
Related: The Best Under-$30 Pool Floats
2. Hang Storage Hooks
Whether mounted on the side of a fence, the wall of a shed, or inside the garage, a few intentionally placed hooks create an ideal storage situation for round pool floats. If used frequently throughout the summer, pool floats should be stored in a spot that's easily accessible. Since they're relatively lightweight, adhesive hooks should do the trick for hanging pool floats off the ground.
If possible, hang the hooks out of direct sunlight. Plastic floats shouldn't be left in the sun or stored in the pool because heat and water can wear the plastic down over time. Using vertical space in a shady area is the best way to keep them in prime condition.
3. Install a Wall-Mounted Rack
A wall-mounted rack, like those used to store paddleboards and surfboards horizontally, can also work for long lounge floats. If you want to leave them inflated all season, fold them in an upside-down U shape between a wall and two prongs. This not only keeps them stored safely off the ground, but can also help organize all of your floats in one single spot.
You can also slide pool noodles onto a mounted rack. In recent years, snakes have been reported to rest inside cool, dark places, including pool noodles that have been stored horizontally. While it might be a rare occurrence, it's best to take precautions and keep them stored upright, higher off the ground, and away from a fence.
4. Use Clear-Lidded Bins
A shelving unit outfitted with clear bins can be a highly functional organization system, especially for smaller pool toys. Whether you stack them in the garage or place them on shelves in a shed, shoe or sweater bins are the perfect size for discs, balls, and dive toys. Stack the bins to maximize space. The lids prevent dirt and critters from getting inside. Choose clear containers so the kids can see which toys are in each bin, or stick a label to each one. Just be sure to let the toys dry completely before adding the lids to prevent any mold or mildew from forming.
5. Use a Sports Organizer
Designed to contain soccer balls and softball bats, a sports-ball organizer can also be used for inflatable beach balls and plank boards as well. A freestanding sports organizer can sit right inside your garage or shed, and it's a convenient way to house all of your pool toys in one place. Use the sides to hang rings and rackets, and store pool noodles upright where bats or hockey sticks would typically go. The base bin can hold small or medium pool floats and beach balls, while the above shelves can keep tiny toys tidy. Many of these equipment organizers are built to ward off rust, but it's still a good idea to shake off excess water before storing the toys.
6. Put Up a Pallet
If you're willing to take on a DIY outdoor project, a wood pallet turned poolside storage can be an easy update. Paint a pallet a summery color, then mount it to a sturdy surface, such as the wall of a garden shed or a backyard fence. Noodles and flat floats can slip through the planks for simple storage. Drill a double hook on either end to hang goggles and life vests, so kids' safety essentials are organized and within reach. A few extra hooks in the middle can also serve as temporary towel storage between dips in the pool.
