Pool Accessories to Store Safely Before Winter

As a Canadian homeowner, you already understand that winter is more than a change in temperature. It shapes how you live, how you prepare, and how you care for your home. Snow boots stay by the door, warm blankets come out of storage, and everything shifts into cold-weather mode. If you have a pool, that seasonal routine becomes a little more involved and a great deal more important.

Closing your pool for the season is not as simple as placing a cover over the water and calling it done. Protecting your investment, preventing costly damage, and making next spring’s opening easier all depend on storing your pool accessories correctly. With Canada's winters known for their intensity, taking a bit of time now to put things away safely can spare you from expensive surprises once the snow melts.

Whether you are new to pool ownership or have cared for one for years, this guide from Krevco Lifestyles Inc. is designed to help. It outlines which accessories should be stored before winter arrives and explains how, why, and where to store them so they remain in excellent condition for the season ahead.

Why Proper Storage Matters More Than You Think

It’s tempting to toss everything into the shed and call it a day, but winter in Canada can be unforgiving. Extreme cold, freeze-thaw cycles, excess moisture, and critter activity can damage or destroy pool accessories that aren’t stored correctly.

Proper storage helps you:

1. Extend the Life of Your Accessories

Pool equipment isn’t cheap. Taking the time to prepare your accessories for storage can help prevent cracking, warping, mould growth, or premature wear.

2. Avoid Unexpected Repairs in Spring

The last thing you want is to reopen your pool in May and find broken hoses, rusted hardware, or missing pieces.

3. Maintain Pool Safety Standards

Storing chemicals, tools, and electrical components improperly can create safety hazards for your family and pets.

4. Protect Invested Money

A pool is one of the most enjoyable backyard investments a homeowner can make. Keeping everything in good condition ensures you maximize value year after year.

Pool Accessories You Should Always Store Before Winter

Below is a detailed list of pool accessories that should never stay outdoors during a Canadian winter. For each one, you’ll find what it is, why it should be stored, and how to do it properly.

1. Pool Ladders and Handrails

These stainless steel or aluminum pieces are essential for entering and exiting your pool safely. But when cold temperatures hit, they can corrode or be damaged if left exposed.

Why Store Them?

• Ice buildup can warp or crack fittings.
  
  

• Moisture can cause rust.
  
  

• Expanding frozen water can loosen bolts or damage anchors.
  
  

How to Store Them

1. Remove all bolts and hardware.
   
   

2. Clean with a mild pool-safe cleaner.
   
   

3. Dry completely to avoid moisture buildup.
   
   

4. Store indoors, garage, basement, or shed.
   
   

5. Keep hardware in a labelled bag so nothing gets lost.
   
   

2. Skimmer Baskets

Skimmer baskets collect leaves, twigs, bugs, and other debris. If left outside, they can freeze or crack.

Why Store Them?

• Plastic becomes brittle in cold temperatures.
  
  

• Ice expansion can warp or break the mesh.
  
  

How to Store Them

• Rinse the basket thoroughly.
  
  

• Let it dry fully.
  
  

• Place it in a labelled storage bin with other small accessories.

3. Pool Cleaning Tools

If you own a pool, chances are you’ve collected a good amount of cleaning equipment over the years, nets, brushes, vacuum attachments, poles, and more.

Why Store Them?

• Plastic and mesh components can crack in freezing temps.
  
  

• Metal parts may rust or corrode.
  
  

• Bristles on brushes can degrade.
  
  

How to Store Them

• Wash everything with warm soapy water.
  
  

• Ensure pieces are fully dry to prevent mould.
  
  

• Hang poles and larger tools on wall hooks.
  
  

• Store smaller items in airtight containers.
  
  

Pro tip: Avoid leaving telescopic poles outside, as the locking mechanisms often become stuck or corroded after winter exposure.

4. Pool Toys and Floats

Canada’s harsh winters are not friendly to vinyl or inflatable materials.

Why Store Them?

• Vinyl can crack when frozen.
  
  

• Inflatable seams weaken.
  
  

• Sun exposure (even in winter) can fade materials.
  
  

How to Store Them

• Deflate all floats.
  
  

• Rinse to remove chlorine or dirt.
  
  

• Dry thoroughly.
  
  

• Store in a large bin with a lid.
  
  

• Keep indoors to prevent rodents from nesting inside them.

5. Solar Blankets and Reels

Solar covers help conserve heat and reduce evaporation during the swimming season, but once temperatures drop, they must come off the pool.

Why Store Them?

• Cold temperatures can make the material brittle.
  
  

• Snow or ice can tear the cover.
  
  

• UV rays in winter can still degrade the surface.
  
  

How to Store Them

1. Clean with a gentle cover cleaner.
   
   

2. Let fully dry to avoid mould.
   
   

3. Fold loosely, never crease tightly.
   
   

4. Store in a dry indoor area.
   
   

5. Cover with a protective blanket or bag.
   
   

If you use a reel, remove the blanket from it unless the reel has a winter storage cover.

6. Pool Steps and Drop-in Steps

If your above-ground or in-ground pool uses removable steps, these need to come out before the winter freeze.

Why Store Them?

• Steps can crack or shift due to ice pressure.
  
  

• Waterlogged steps can freeze internally and break.
  
  

• Algae buildup can worsen if left outdoors.

How to Store Them

• Drain completely.
  
  

• Use a brush to remove algae or debris.
  
  

• Let air-dry for multiple days.
  
  

• Store upright in a basement or shed.

7. Automatic Cleaners and Robotic Vacuums

These high-value items should never be left outdoors or in freezing temperatures.

Why Store Them?

• Freeze damage can destroy internal components.
  
  

• Hoses and connectors can crack.
  
  

• Electronics can corrode.
  
  

How to Store Them

• Clean thoroughly according to manufacturer instructions.
  
  

• Remove the filter and wash it.
  
  

• Allow everything to dry.
  
  

• Store the cleaner in its original box or a protective tote.
  
  

• Keep in a temperature-controlled room if possible.

8. Pool Filters (If Removable)

Some cartridges or small filters can be removed and stored inside.

Why Store Them?

• Protects filter material from ice damage.
  
  

• Prevents mould and bacteria growth.
  
  

• Extends the filter’s lifespan.
  
  

How to Store Them

• Rinse generously with a hose.
  
  

• Allow to air-dry completely.
  
  

• Store upright in a clean, ventilated storage bin.
  
  

Cartridge filters especially benefit from indoor storage.

9. Pool Pumps and Motors (When Applicable)

Most pool pumps and motors remain connected to the pool system, but in some above-ground or semi-portable systems, they can be removed.

Why Store Them?

• Pumps can crack if the water inside freezes.
  
  

• Motors can corrode in cold conditions.
  
  

• Protects electrical components.
  
  

How to Store Them

• Drain all water from the pump.
  
  

• Dry thoroughly.
  
  

• Place on a shelf in a dry indoor area.
  
  

If your pump stays outdoors, ensure it is:

• fully winterized,
  
  

• drained,
  
  

• and properly covered.

10. Diving Boards and Slides

If your pool includes these accessories, they should be safely stored away.

Why Store Them?

• Cold temperatures can cause surface cracking.
  
  

• Bolts and mounts can corrode.
  
  

• Water trapped inside can freeze and damage the structure.
  
  

How to Store Them

• Remove completely.
  
  

• Clean with mild soap.
  
  

• Let it dry.
  
  

• Cover with padding or blankets while in storage.

11. Pool Lights (Portable or Detachable)

Floating lights or detachable LED fixtures shouldn’t remain in the pool.

Why Store Them?

• Battery corrosion can occur.
  
  

• Plastic casing can crack in freezing weather.
  
  

• Electronics are sensitive to temperature changes.
  
  

How to Store Them

• Remove batteries.
  
  

• Clean and dry.
  
  

• Store in a dry cabinet or storage bin.

12. Pool Hoses and Vacuum Lines

Every pool owner has a collection of hoses, backwash hoses, vacuum hoses, skimmer hoses, and more.

Why Store Them?

• Hoses can crack or split when frozen.
  
  

• Elasticity weakens in cold weather.
  
  

How to Store Them

• Drain water completely.
  
  

• Lay them flat in a warm place to dry.
  
  

• Keep coiled and hung on a large hook or stored in a proper-sized bin.
  
  

Avoid tight loops that can create permanent kinks.

13. Chlorinators and Salt Cells (If Removable)

Some systems feature removable parts that should be stored after cleaning.

Why Store Them?

• Ice can damage delicate components.
  
  

• Extends life expectancy of metal plates in salt cells.
  
  

How to Store Them

• Clean according to manufacturer guidelines.
  
  

• Dry fully.
  
  

• Store in an upright position away from moisture.

14. Pool Chemicals

Pool chemicals must be stored safely year-round, but winter often requires extra caution.

Why Store Them Carefully?

• Chemicals can react in extreme temperatures.
  
  

• Storing them outside can cause clumping, freezing, or contamination.
  
  

• Safety risks for children and pets increase if stored improperly.
  
  

How to Store Them

• Keep in a locked, dry, temperature-stable area.
  
  

• Avoid mixing chemical containers.
  
  

• Ensure lids are tightly sealed.
  
  

Never store pool chemicals near heaters, furnaces, or flames.

Where to Store Your Pool Accessories for Winter

Choosing the right storage location is just as important as preparing the items themselves. Here are the best options:

1. Garage

Great for large items like steps, ladders, and hoses. Just ensure moisture levels are low.

2. Basement

Ideal for accessories that need temperature-controlled environments, robot vacuums, pumps, toys, and electronics.

3. Outdoor Shed

Best for items that aren’t sensitive to temperature: poles, nets, brushes, or covers.

4. Storage Bins

Using labelled airtight storage bins helps keep everything organized, dust-free, and protected from rodents.

5. Wall Hooks or Shelving

Hanging poles, hoses, and long tools prevents them from bending or becoming damaged.

Step-by-Step: How to Prepare Your Pool Accessories for Winter Storage

To make things easy, here’s a simple checklist you can follow:

Step 1: Clean Everything First

Dirty equipment grows mould over winter and attracts insects or rodents.

Use:

• mild dish soap,
  
  

• pool-safe cleaners,
  
  

• and warm water.
  
  

Avoid harsh chemicals that can degrade plastic.

Step 2: Dry Completely

Moisture is the enemy during winter.

Lay items out for 24–48 hours until fully dry, especially:

• hoses,
  
  

• floats,
  
  

• steps,
  
  

• filters,
  
  

• pumps.

Step 3: Repair or Replace Worn Items

Winter is the best time to check for cracks, loose fittings, or broken pieces.
Replacing them now means your spring opening will be stress-free.

Step 4: Organize by Category

Create bins or shelves for each type:

• cleaning tools,
  
  

• hardware,
  
  

• floats,
  
  

• maintenance items.
  
  

Label everything.

Step 5: Store in a Safe, Dry Location

Choose a place where:

• temperatures remain stable,
  
  

• water won’t pool,
  
  

• rodents can’t access,
  
  

• Items won’t be crushed.

Extra Tips for Smooth Winter Pool Storage

These simple strategies can make next year’s pool opening faster and easier.

Tip #1: Take Photos Before Storing

Snap pictures of:

• how your equipment was installed,
  
  

• how pieces connect,
  
  

• how hoses route through the system.
  
  

You’ll thank yourself in spring.

Tip #2: Create a Storage Inventory List

List each item you’re storing so you don’t forget where things are when the weather warms up.

Tip #3: Use Moisture-Absorbing Packs

Place silica gel or moisture absorbers inside bins to prevent mould.

Tip #4: Check Items Monthly

A quick visual check can prevent problems like rodents chewing hoses or humidity damaging electronics.

Tip #5: Don’t Store Anything on Concrete Floors

Concrete absorbs moisture, which can transfer to equipment.

Use:

• shelves,
  
  

• pallets,
  
  

• hooks,
  
  

• or plastic mats.

FAQ: Common Questions About Winter Pool Storage

Here are clear answers to the questions you requested.

1. How do I protect pool equipment in freezing temperatures?

Drain all water from pumps, hoses, filters, and plumbing lines because water expands when it freezes and can crack components. Store removable equipment indoors, keep electronics in a temperature-controlled area, and ensure outdoor items are covered and fully winterized. Moisture control is essential.

2. What can I store my pool equipment in for the winter?

Sturdy storage bins with sealed lids work well for smaller accessories such as skimmer baskets, toys, brushes, and hardware. Large items like steps or ladders can be stored in a garage or shed. Electronics and delicate equipment should stay in a dry indoor environment. Shelving, hooks, and labelled containers help keep everything organized.

3. Why do people put baking soda in their swimming pools?

Baking soda helps stabilize the pool’s pH and alkalinity levels. It prevents the water from becoming too acidic, which protects the pool liner, equipment, and swimmer comfort. While this is typically done during swimming season, balanced water also matters during closing, so baking soda can be part of fall maintenance.

4. Do I unhook my pump from the pool to winterize it?

If your system allows it, removing the pump is often recommended. Disconnecting the pump helps ensure that no water is trapped inside, which reduces the risk of freeze damage. For in-ground systems that remain connected, you must still fully drain the pump, remove drain plugs, and ensure the housing is dry before covering it.

Preparing Your Pool for Winter: The Krevco Advantage

Taking the time to store your pool accessories properly can protect your investment and help you enjoy a smooth and stress-free pool opening in the spring. Krevco Lifestyles Inc. offers high-quality accessories, professional guidance, and everything you need to maintain your pool throughout the year.

Whether you are preparing for winter or planning upgrades for next summer, Krevco is committed to helping you create a backyard experience that is enjoyable and long-lasting.

Ready to Upgrade Your Pool Experience?

Visit Krevco Lifestyles Inc. today to explore our full selection of pool accessories, winter covers, cleaning tools, storage products, and more.
Protect your investment, simplify your seasonal maintenance, and keep your pool in peak condition, all with Krevco’s trusted quality. Explore our products and expert resources now!
Let us help you get ready for winter and be excited for next summer!