SUP care, cleaning and storage: How to properly maintain your SUP board

Stand Up Paddling is more than just a sport: it’s a break, an adventure, and relaxation on the water. To ensure your SUP board and paddle look and perform as well as they did on day one, even after many tours, proper SUP board care is crucial.

No worries: With a few simple tips, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your equipment – for more fun on the water, season after season.

Why SUP board care is so important

A high-quality inflatable SUP is made for many adventures. Purchasing a SUP board is a significant investment that should be protected through proper care and maintenance. For everyone who practices Stand Up Paddling, consistent SUP care is essential to ensure long-term enjoyment of the hobby. This is because sun, saltwater, dirt, small stones, or improper storage can take a toll on the material.

A frequent question is: How do I properly clean and maintain my SUP board to avoid damage and extend its lifespan?

Regular cleaning and proper storage not only ensure a longer lifespan but also increase the resale value. The right SUP care is the foundation for lasting joy in Stand Up Paddling. The result of careful maintenance is an always well-kept SUP board that not only looks great but also retains its value and price in the long run.

SUP care made easy - cleaning & SUP care products

After every use, you should rinse your Stand Up Paddle board with clear fresh water – especially after using it in saltwater. Cleaning and care after each use are important to maintain the condition of your SUP board and prevent damage from salt and dirt deposits on the surface and in the valve area. All parts and materials of the board, as well as the accessories, should be cleaned regularly to prevent damage and weathering.

Your guide to perfect SUP care with the right maintenance products:

1. Rinse with a garden hose or bucket.

2. Remove coarse dirt with a soft cloth or sponge.

3. Let the SUP dry – preferably in the shade so that no moisture remains.

4. Recommendation: Use UV protection spray or special cleaning agents such as those from Yachticon or SUP Brothers. These products are usually sold as a liquid in a bottle and can be applied with a cloth or sponge; the special care products help remove stubborn dirt and protect the board from further soiling.

Our insider tip: A more thorough cleaning with a gentle cleaner once a month increases the lifespan of your board. There is a detailed guide that explains the cleaning and care of your SUP board step-by-step. You can find a suitable cleaning video from SUP TV.

The products from the video can be purchased here:

• Yachticon Care

• Cleaning set (Care + cleaner)

• SUP Brothers Cleaning Set

Additionally important: Make sure no water is trapped inside the valve or in the fin box area.

• Before storage, the board should be completely dry so that no moisture causes mold or material damage.

• After use, the SUP board should not be stored immediately after inflation, but only after it has dried completely.

Especially in summer, it is recommended not to store the board fully inflated and not in direct sunlight to avoid damage from overpressure and heat. Choose a shady spot for storage and a suitable surface to maintain the condition of the board and protect it from sunlight, weathering, and other environmental influences. Regular maintenance offers the advantage that your iSUP is easy to store and transport.

Clean the SUP deck pad - fast, thorough, material-friendly

The deck pad ensures a secure footing – making it all the more important to keep it clean and grippy. Sunscreen, sweat, sand, or algae residues build up quickly and make the surface slippery.

How to clean your Stand Up Paddle board deck pad properly:

• Rinse with fresh water and remove coarse dirt with a soft sponge or rubber brush.

• Use recommended care products.

• If necessary: use mild dish soap or a little baking soda for grease stains.

• For algae residues, a mixture of lukewarm water and a splash of vinegar helps.

• Do not use aggressive cleaners or hard brushes.

• Afterwards, rinse well with clear water and let it dry in the shade.

This keeps the deck pad hygienic, grippy, and long-lasting even with intensive use.

Storing Stand Up Paddle boards: The best tips for home and on the go

An inflatable SUP board is particularly practical because it can be stored in a space-saving manner. However, for your board to remain stable, shapely, and functional for a long time, you should keep a few things in mind regarding storage – both at the water and at home. Protection against sun, heat, moisture, and mechanical stress is especially important. Here are the most important tips at a glance:

At the water:

• Do not leave the SUP board in the blazing sun for long periods.

• Let it dry in the shade before rolling it up.

At home:

• For optimal storage, keep the board slightly inflated, dry, and loosely spread out.

• In summer, the board should not be stored fully inflated, as the material can expand in heat, posing a risk of damage.

• Alternatively: completely dry and loosely rolled up in the backpack.

• Make sure all moisture is completely removed before storage to prevent damage from dampness and mold.

• The board should be stored in a shady place on a suitable surface, as an unsuitable surface can cause damage.

• Proper storage maintains the condition of the board and protects against weathering and sunlight.

• A major advantage of iSUP boards is their space-saving storage, as they can be easily rolled up after use.

• Different SUP board materials have different storage requirements – always check the respective manufacturer's instructions to avoid damage.

In winter:

• Store in a cool, dry, and frost-free place.

• Do not store in damp cellars or in the immediate vicinity of heaters.

Additional note: UV radiation can make the PVC surface brittle over time. A storage location protected from light, such as in a cupboard, box, or covered with a cloth, further increases the lifespan. If you are not using the board for a long time, it is recommended to leave the valve cap slightly open to balance pressure changes.

Maintain your SUP paddle properly – tips for a long lifespan

A high-quality paddle like our semi-carbon paddle also requires care. Various materials like carbon, aluminum, or plastic have different requirements for cleaning and storage. Be sure to follow the care instructions for the specific material to ensure longevity.

Cleaning:

• Rinse the SUP board and paddle with clear water after every session.

• Remove sand from the joints.

• Remove any existing wax and reapply if necessary.

Transport:

• Transport in a paddle bag or with a blade cover.

• Do not stand on the blade; always stand on the handle.

• When traveling by plane: Wrap with towels or bubble wrap.

• For storage, it is recommended to attach the paddle securely to the wall to avoid damage from falling or knocks.

• Choose a suitable place for storage that is dry, shady, and protected from direct sunlight.

Repair:

• Repair small hairline cracks with epoxy and fiberglass.

• Breaks: Only by a professional or replace the paddle.

Extra tip: Avoid leaving the paddle in the sun for long periods – especially carbon can be damaged by high temperatures. Improper storage or the wrong place can lead to damage to the paddle. For adjustable paddles, it is also worth occasionally greasing or cleaning the adjustment mechanism so that it remains smooth-operating.

Transporting a SUP board correctly – tips for everyday life and travel

With the backpack, your board is optimally packed for everyday life and travel. Carrying the SUP board in a suitable bag reduces the strain on the user and protects the material. Improper transport can lead to damage to the SUP, so special care is important when transporting Stand Up Paddle boards – especially since damage can occur quickly through hard impacts or incorrect packing. Different SUP board materials influence how they should be transported and protected.

• For air travel: Add extra padding to the board with foam or clothing – pay attention to the different prices for sports baggage charged by airlines.

• Fins must always be removed before packing.

• Consider the destination: If using in saltwater, the SUP should always be cleaned afterwards.

Note for car use: Even when transporting in a car, the board should not be permanently exposed to extreme heat. The interior of a vehicle can heat up significantly and damage the board. Transporting it in the trunk or with the windows open is ideal.

Conclusion – Proper care leads to a longer SUP lifespan

Whether after an after-work paddle on the Alster or a long weekend tour on the lake: if you regularly clean and store your Favvity SUP board and paddle properly, your equipment will accompany you for many years. You don't need to be a professional for this – just a few minutes of time and some care.

Make sure to pay attention to everything regarding SUP board care to ensure the longevity of your equipment. It is important to maintain and clean all components of the SUP set – i.e., board, paddle, and accessories – regularly to prevent wear and tear.

Discover our long-lasting, low-maintenance SUP set now: View SUP Allrounder Comfort

Frequently asked questions & smart SUP hacks

How often should I clean my SUP board?

After every tour – especially after saltwater use. For maximum longevity: 1x per month a thorough cleaning with a mild cleaner and UV protection.

Can I roll up my SUP wet?

Better not. Moisture in the SUP backpack leads to mold and odors. If you are in a hurry: spread it out again at home and let it dry completely.

What to do if the SUP becomes soft from the sun?

Take it out of the sun immediately and deflate it slightly. Heat expands the air in the board – this can lead to material damage. Never leave it in the sun fully inflated.

How do I store my SUP properly in winter?

Loosely rolled, completely dry, cool (not freezing), and protected from light. Ideal: lying down or hanging slightly inflated in a dry room.

Are there tricks for transport in the car?

Yes: roll the fin box upwards so it doesn't press against your back. And: don't wedge it under luggage – otherwise, pressure marks will form.

How can I remove sand from the paddle shaft?

Simple hack: brush it out with a small, soft brush or toothbrush. Afterwards, rinse with water – this keeps the joints smooth.

Is there a household remedy for SUP cleaning?

Yes: A mild mixture of warm water, a little dish soap, and a splash of vinegar removes many stains – without being aggressive to the material.

What to do about small scratches on the board?

Repair with a PVC repair pen or patch kit. Important: Clean and dry the area beforehand. For deeper damage: better to see a professional.

My adjustable paddle is jammed – what to do?

Tip: Carefully treat with silicone spray or a little bicycle grease before use – don't use too much. Then the mechanism will operate smoothly again.