Every summer, my backyard pool becomes filled with flamingo floats, and all kinds of other floats you can imagine of and it looks very untidy. Sounds familiar?
If you’ve ever tripped over a soggy pool float or spent 20 minutes chasing one across the yard in the wind, you already know the chaos that can come with pool season. That’s why I finally decided to do something about it. And let me tell you—it was a game changer.
So if you’re tired of floats taking over your space, let me walk you through some super practical (and actually cute!) pool float storage ideas DIY deck lovers like us can easily pull off.
Why You Need DIY Pool Float Storage (Especially on a Deck)
Decks are prime real estate for summer living—lounging, grilling, sipping cold drinks—but cluttered decks? Not so dreamy.
The problem with pool floats is they’re bulky, oddly shaped, and not exactly décor-friendly when they’re just lying around. DIY storage helps you:
- Protect your floats from sun damage and popping.
- Clear up deck space for guests or activities.
- Keep your backyard looking clean and intentional.
And the best part? You don’t need a contractor or a Pinterest-perfect shed to pull it off.
1. The Vertical Pallet Rack
This one’s my go-to. It’s cheap, fast, and blends into most backyard vibes—especially if you stain it to match your deck.
What You Need:
- One or two wooden pallets
- Sandpaper or a sander
- Outdoor paint or stain (optional)
- Wall anchors or deck railing brackets
How It Works:
Lean the pallet vertically against a railing or mount it flat on a wall. The slats act like built-in slots where you can slide floats or noodles. I added some S-hooks to the side to hang goggles, snorkels, and float pumps.
Pro tip: Add small labeled tags or paint sections for each family member—it stops arguments and keeps things tidy.
2. Repurposed Laundry Basket Cart (with Wheels!)
You know those tall plastic laundry hampers with holes? Turns out, they’re perfect for float storage.
Why I Love It:
- The holes help floats dry faster.
- It’s portable—roll it to the pool, then roll it away.
- You can stack towels on top for a grab-and-go station.
Just make sure to drill a few extra holes in the bottom so water doesn’t collect inside.
Bonus idea: Paint it with waterproof spray paint to match your deck furniture for a cohesive look.
3. Hanging Mesh Bag System
This one’s especially great if you have a small deck or fence nearby.
Materials:
- Heavy-duty mesh laundry bags or toy storage nets
- Carabiner clips or outdoor hooks
- Sturdy railing or fence panel
Fill the mesh bags with smaller floats, deflated tubes, or pool toys. Hang them where the sun and air can reach, so things dry quickly and mildew doesn’t sneak in.
Pro tip: Label each bag by type—”noodles,” “rings,” “small floats”—so things don’t become a tangled mess.
4. DIY Deck Bench with Hidden Storage
Okay, this one takes a little more effort—but it doubles as seating and storage. Worth it.
What You’ll Need:
- Pressure-treated wood
- Hinges
- Outdoor cushion (optional)
- Basic tools (saw, drill, screws)
Build a simple box bench and add a hinged lid. Toss in your deflated floats, towels, or pool gear. Add a weatherproof cushion on top and boom—instant seating with secret storage.
Tip from experience: Add a moisture absorber or cedar blocks inside to keep things fresh.
5. PVC Float Organizer
This one screams DIY and is surprisingly easy. I built one of these last summer with leftover PVC from a sprinkler project.
What You’ll Need:
- 1-inch PVC pipes
- PVC elbows and T-joints
- Zip ties or Velcro straps
- Spray paint (optional)
Build a rectangular frame with side bars to drape large inflatables over. Add side pockets or a smaller section for noodles. You can customize the size depending on your deck space.
And if you paint it black or brown? It actually looks pretty sleek.
6. Under-Deck Net Storage
If your deck is raised, you’ve got free real estate underneath. Use it!
How:
- Attach a cargo net or heavy-duty mesh underneath the deck.
- Clip in floats using bungee cords or carabiners.
- Store large items flat so they’re out of sight but still easy to grab.
This one is especially useful for off-season storage. Just make sure you clean and deflate floats first.
7. Wall-Mounted Hooks and Bungee System
I saw this at a neighbor’s house and immediately copied it.
Setup:
- Mount a few heavy-duty outdoor hooks to the wall or fence.
- Run bungee cords horizontally between them.
- Tuck floats or toys behind the bungees like a stretchy shelf.
It’s super easy to install, and it keeps everything visible but tidy. Plus, the kids can actually put things away themselves. Win.
What Worked Best for Me?
I combined two methods: the vertical pallet rack and the mesh bags. The pallet looks rustic-chic, and the bags keep smaller items from turning into a pool toy avalanche.
Honestly, the trick is to mix what works for your space and your stuff. If you’ve got giant swans and pizza slice floats (you know the ones), go big with a rack or net. More of a minimalist? A simple laundry cart might do.
FAQs About Pool Float Storage on Decks
Q: Can I leave pool floats outside all summer?
Technically yes, but they’ll wear out faster. Sun, wind, and rough deck surfaces can cause fading and tears. Covered storage helps floats last much longer.
Q: How do I store pool floats in small deck spaces?
Use vertical solutions like wall racks or mesh bags. Look for dead space (behind furniture, under benches, fence panels) and get creative with hooks and nets.
Q: Should I deflate pool floats after each use?
Not every time, but if you’re short on space or expecting storms, it helps. Deflated floats are easier to store neatly and are less likely to blow away.
You don’t need to spend a fortune or build a pool house to tame the float frenzy. A few simple tweaks—and a little creativity—can totally transform how your backyard functions and looks.
Whether you’re a weekend DIYer or a full-blown deck enthusiast, I hope one of these pool float storage ideas DIY deck hacks inspired you to tackle the mess and take back your summer space.
If you’ve got a clever trick I haven’t mentioned—or if you try one of these—I’d love to hear about it! Drop a comment, share it with a fellow poolside warrior, and happy floating! 🛟