As Canadian summers fade, September brings cooler nights, damp weather, and the first hints of frost. It’s also the best time to store summer gear. Get ahead of winter by putting away bikes, kayaks, canoes, camping gear, pool equipment and toys. At City Storage, we know the right storage strategy makes all the difference. With our short-term storage rentals, you can protect your gear and reclaim valuable space at home.
Prep for Winter in September
The time buffer: September is still warm enough to wash and dry gear outdoors for storage prep. Waiting until October risks wet conditions and rushed packing. Don’t leave your summer items out in the cold, put them in climate controlled storage.
Seasonal transition: September marks the start of wetter, colder weather. Tackling your storage now prevents mold, mildew, and rust from creeping in. Keep your items well maintained with proper storage.
Bikes: Clean, Protect, and Store them Right
Clean thoroughly: Wash, dry, and lubricate the chain to prevent corrosion.
Cover and position: Use a fitted cover and store on a rack or hang from hooks. In a personal storage unit at City Storage, bikes stay safe from temperature swings and crowded garages.This gives you room for vehicle storage at home.
Check tires: Inflate before storing to avoid flat spots.
Kayaks & Canoes: Support and Shield your Boats
Support matters: Store canoes upside down on gunwales, kayaks deck-down on padded racks or slings.
Indoors beats outdoors: A short-term storage rental at City Storage protects hulls from UV rays, snow load, and moisture.
Dry first: Always rinse, dry, and loosen straps and hatches to prevent mold.
Camping Gear: Keep It Fresh for Next Year
Tents: Wash gently, air-dry fully, and store in breathable bags. Never store damp. It will lead to mildew.
Sleeping Bags: Store loose, not compressed, in a cool, dry space like our best self storage units with climate control.
Chairs & Gear: Dry thoroughly, coil ropes, and remove batteries to prevent leaks.
Pool Equipment & Toys: Prevent Cracks and Damage
Clean and dry everything: Rinse pool noodles, floats, and toys with fresh water to remove chlorine or salt. Make sure to let them dry fully before storing.
Protect fragile gear: Pumps, filters, and hoses should be drained and dried. Store small pool equipment in labeled bins inside one of our secure storage solutions to avoid freezing damage.
Avoid sun and frost: Vinyl and plastic toys can crack in cold weather; climate-controlled storage rentals at City Storage are the safest option.
Trampolines: Break it Down Before the Snow Flies
Disassemble safely: Take apart the safety net, springs, and mat. Leaving a trampoline outdoors in Canadian winters can warp the frame and tear the mat.
Store smart: Keep small parts (springs, bolts, and tools) in labelled bags. Fold the mat, dry it, and store it in bins.
Unit advantage: City Storage offers many unit sizes ideal for oversized summer gear, like trampolines, and large summer toys.
Why Choose City Storage for Fall Prep?
Free up space: Rotate summer toys out and bring in winter gear without cluttering your garage.
Peace of mind: Our secure storage solutions protect your investments from theft and weather damage.
Flexibility: Whether you need short-term storage,or longer-term protection, City Storage has the best self storage options available to meet your needs.
Quick September Storage Checklist
- Wash and dry all gear (bikes, boats, pool toys, trampolines).
- Lubricate bikes, rinse boats, and air out tents.
- Drain pool equipment and fold trampolines neatly.
- Use breathable bags or covers to protect everything.
- Store it safely with City Storage—your trusted secure storage solution in Ontario.
Final Thoughts
September is the sweet spot for storing summer toys before Canadian weather turns harsh. By using the best self storage practices like cleaning, drying, and organizing gear, you’ll extend the life of your summer equipment. With these tips and warehouse storage in London, Ontario, City Storage makes it easy to keep your equipment safe, organized, and ready for next summer’s adventures.
As September fades, winter is never far behind. Soon it will be the holidays! If you shop early, maybe you need unique places to store gifts?
