Get your boat ready for winter with our fall boat storage checklist. Learn essential maintenance steps, moisture prevention tips, and why a custom-fit, UV-resistant boat cover is key to protecting your investment.
Why Fall Prep Matters
As the boating season winds down and cooler temps roll in, proper winterization or fall storage becomes critical. Whether you store your boat on a trailer, a lift, or in dry dock, preparing it properly ensures a smooth launch next spring—and helps protect your investment from weather, debris, and UV damage. One of the most important yet often overlooked steps? Covering your boat.
Your Fall Boat Storage Checklist
Here’s a quick checklist to ensure your boat is ready for winter:
1. Clean Your Boat Thoroughly
Before you store your boat, remove all dirt, grime, fish blood, salt, and mildew.
- Wash with marine-safe soap – We suggest 303 Multi-Surface Cleaner or Star Brite Cleaners. You can also check out West Marine for other selections.
- Flush the engine and cooling system
- Clean upholstery, electronics, and live wells
Why it matters: Trapped debris and moisture can cause permanent stains, corrosion, or mold during long-term storage.
2. Dry Everything Completely
Moisture is your enemy during storage. Towel off surfaces and allow the boat to air-dry before covering.
Pro Tip: Open hatches, coolers, and storage bins so air circulates and mold doesn’t build up.
3. Disconnect and Protect the Battery
Remove or disconnect the battery and store it in a cool, dry place. Top it off with a trickle charger if needed.
4. Drain All Water Systems
Drain bilges, fresh water tanks, and any plumbing to prevent freezing or cracking.
5. Fuel and Fluids
- Top off the fuel tank and add a stabilizer
- Change the oil and check antifreeze levels
- Lubricate moving parts to prevent rust
6. Use a Quality Boat Cover
This is the step that too many boaters skip or downplay.
A high-quality T-Top Boat Cover:
- Blocks UV rays to protect your seats and electronics
- Keeps out water, leaves, snow, animals and general debris
- Prevents fading, cracking, and mildew buildup on your upholstery
Choose a UV-resistant, waterproof, breathable cover designed specifically for your boat’s size and shape. Covers with reinforced seams and proper ventilation offer the best long-term protection.
Bonus Tip: LaPorte Products offers three premium cover material options, but for winter storage, we recommend our durable 9oz fabric or Sunbrella. Both are solution-dyed for lasting color and UV protection, and built to withstand harsh winter conditions.
Optional: Add a Moisture Control Option
Place dehumidifier bags or mildew control canisters under the cover to reduce trapped moisture. This is especially useful in humid climates or when storing near water.
Don’t Just Store It—Protect It
Your boat is more than just a weekend escape, it’s a valuable investment that deserves the best care. Taking a few hours now to follow this fall boat storage checklist—and investing in a proper boat cover for winter—can save you weeks of cleaning and hundreds of dollars in repairs when next season rolls around. Protect your boat now, so it’s ready to go when the warm weather returns. Make sure a custom-fit, marine-grade boat cover is part of your fall prep routine.
Ready to Cover Up?
Explore our library of custom-fit boat covers designed to outlast the elements—and keep your boat in top shape all year long. For our lucky Florida customers who don’t have to worry about winterizing, we’ve got Boat Shade Kits and Center Console Curtains to keep you on the water longer all year long!
