How to Store Outdoor Games Over Winter (So They Last Longer)

How to Store Outdoor Games Over Winter (So They Last Longer)

One of the biggest challenges for outdoor game lovers is how to preserve your gear through a long, cold winter so that it’s ready to play come spring. Whether you play with giant checkers, cornhole sets, ring toss, or giant Monopoly, following good storage practices can substantially extend the life of your products and reduce returns or replacements. 

1. Clean Everything Before Storing

Dirt, grime, leaves, and moisture left on surfaces become breeding grounds for mold, mildew, rust, and decay during winter.

• Use mild soap and water (or manufacturer‑recommended cleaners) to wipe down plastic, wood, or metal surfaces.

• Gently scrub away dried mud or debris with a soft brush.

• Rinse and dry thoroughly (moisture left behind is one of the biggest enemies).

• For wood, check whether a light sanding and resealing might help before storage (especially for items exposed to weather).

2. Disassemble Large or Bulky Items When Possible

Many outdoor games and structures can be taken apart for easier storage. This reduces stress on joints, prevents warping, and makes them more compact.

• For example: disassemble frames, nets, legs, or poles.

• Keep all hardware (nuts, bolts, screws) together in labeled bags, and attach them (with tape or tie) to the corresponding pieces.

• For nets, ropes, fabrics: fold or roll them neatly (avoid sharp folds) and store them flat or in breathable bags.

3. Choose the Right Storage Environment

Where and how you store your gear matters as much as how well you’ve cleaned or disassembled it.

Ideal conditions:

• Dry, low humidity — moisture and humidity are more damaging than cold.

• Stable temperatures — avoid extreme fluctuations as they can cause expansion/contraction, warping, or stress.

• Shade or dark spaces — UV light can degrade plastic, fade colors, or weaken materials.

• Off the ground — avoid placing directly on bare soil or concrete, which can wick moisture. Use pallets, shelves, or boards underneath.

If you don’t have indoor space, consider a well-ventilated shed or garage. For permanently installed equipment that can’t be moved: cover with heavy-duty tarps, plastic sheeting, or fitted covers, and secure them tightly.

4. Use Covers, Protectants & Barriers

Protective layers help shield against dust, snow, ice, pests, and UV damage.

• Breathable covers are better than tight plastic wraps that trap moisture.

• Tarps or fitted covers can shield large equipment, but avoid letting them flap and wear on the surface.
  
  Sealants and finishes: for wooden parts, apply a clear sealant or outdoor-grade protective finish (if recommended by manufacturer) before storage.

• Insert silica gel packs or desiccants (in small plastic bags) in containers or boxes with smaller parts to absorb residual moisture.

5. Organize & Label

Good organization speeds spring setup and helps prevent damage during storage.

• Store smaller parts (stakes, pegs, dice, balls, accessories) in clear plastic bins or labeled containers.

• Use stackable, sturdy bins and avoid placing heavy items on top of delicate pieces.

• Tape or affix small bags of hardware to the corresponding large piece so nothing gets separated or lost.

• If your inventory is large, consider an inventory list or photo map of where things are in storage.

6. Inspect Periodically During Winter

Winter is long. Checking in occasionally helps catch issues early.

• Inspect for pest intrusion (mice, insects) — look for chew marks, droppings, or nests.

• Watch for moisture buildup or condensation under covers — if you see damp spots, lift covers to let air circulate.

• Check that covers remain in place (strong wind can shift tarps).

• Re-dry or re-cover any parts that show dampness.

7. Reassemble & Test Before Use

When spring returns:

• Reassemble carefully, using your labeled parts and hardware.

• Test all moving parts, tighten loose bolts, and inspect for damage that may have worsened during storage.

• Clean again or touch up finishes if needed.

Taking the time to properly store your outdoor games over the winter will help protect your investment and ensure your gear is ready for fun as soon as the warm weather returns. At Outdoor Games N Sports, we carry all the products mentioned—from giant checkers and cornhole boards to ring toss, storage accessories, and more—so you can keep the good times rolling season after season. If you have any questions about how to care for or store your games, don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re always happy to help. Most importantly, remember: games are meant to bring people together, so take care of your gear, and get ready to have fun all over again in the spring!