Tips on Caring for Ski Tubes
Storage
Ski tubes need to be stored away at the end of the season. Before you put them in storage, you will need to make sure they are completely dry. It is much easier to dry ski tubes when they are fully inflated. If you want to dry a deflated tube, you will need to hang it up somewhere. If you store them while they’re still wet, mildew or mold may form permanent stains. You should also make sure you store them some place where rodents and vermin can’t damage them.
Cleaning
Ski tubes get wet while you’re using them. It’s best to use a mild detergent mixed with warm water to wash away the dirt. Afterwards, you should rinse it with a garden hose. If you use strong detergents, you could damage the nylon cover or cause it to fade.
Inflation
One of the most important aspects of caring for ski tubes is proper inflation. You should carefully read the inflation instructions that come with them. Ski tubes that are under-inflated will sit low. They will be dragged through the water instead of gliding across it. This stress can cause the nylon cover to tear or even cause the tube to rupture.
You should avoid over-inflating ski tubes. If they are over-inflated, it will stress the air bladder inside the tube. Most ski tubes are properly inflated when they are very firm. If they are free from wrinkles then they are probably properly inflated.
Sun
You should never leave ski tubes in the sun. The heat can cause the air bladder to become misshaped, especially if the tube is over-inflated. Once it loses its shape, it will never return to its original shape. Misshapen air tubes will be hard to tow and show erratic behavior when pulled. They may even become submerged.
These are a few tips on caring for ski tubes. You should make sure they are properly inflated or you may damage them. Ski tubes also need to be completely dry before they are stored away. If they are not completely dry, they may be permanently stained from mold and mildew.
