By Andrey Zhilin, Cleaning near me, Seasonal Care Expert
August in Florida means more than heat — it signals the beginning of the wettest stretch of the year.
Storms come fast. Humidity lingers longer.
And yet, in garages, sheds, and back porches across the state, summer gear is quietly collecting mold, rust, and mildew.
Every year I’m called into homes where once-useful items are now ruined — because no one thought to clean them properly before storing them.
So let me give it to you straight:
If you value your summer gear — beach chairs, umbrellas, coolers, pool floats — August is the time to act.
What Happens If You Don’t Clean First
Florida’s rainy season doesn’t wait for you to organize. Here’s what I see when items are packed up dirty:
- Beach umbrellas folded while damp = black mildew within 2 weeks
- Coolers sealed with moisture = rotten smells and bacteria colonies
- Snorkel gear tossed into a bin = mold in mouthpieces and tubing
- Towels left in bags = full fabric damage and rusted zippers
Most of these items aren’t technically “dirty” — they’re humid, salty, and holding invisible residue.
And when that’s locked inside a shed or bin, it multiplies.
Gear That Requires Immediate Attention
Before storms pick up in September, focus on:
1. Soft-Sided Coolers and Beach Bags
- Wipe inside and out with warm soapy water
- Rinse thoroughly and leave in direct sun until fully dry
- Leave zippers open for airflow
- Don’t store with towels or wet items inside
2. Pool Toys, Floats, and Snorkeling Equipment
- Rinse with a 50/50 vinegar and water mix to neutralize chlorine and salt
- Dry fully with towels, then air-dry again
- Deflate floats only after they are bone-dry — otherwise mildew forms inside
3. Camping Chairs and Umbrellas
- Brush off sand, rinse frames and fabric
- Let joints dry to avoid rust
- Store open or only partially folded until completely dry
4. Water Shoes, Flip-Flops, and Swimwear
- Wash with mild detergent and baking soda
- Air dry in shade to prevent cracking
- Never seal inside plastic containers while damp
Smart Storage Tips for the Rainy Season
- Use breathable mesh or fabric bins — not airtight containers
- Line garage or shed shelves with moisture-absorbing mats
- Label gear clearly so you don’t rummage with wet hands in fall
- Add desiccant packs to each bin (you can buy them online or save them from packaging)
- Store heavier gear off the ground to avoid flooding damage
What’s Not Worth Saving?
If something smells off, feels slimy, or is growing fuzz — toss it.
Don’t store “maybe” items through hurricane season. They’ll attract pests and infect cleaner gear.
Final Note
Cleaning summer gear isn’t about being tidy — it’s about protecting what you own from Florida’s real enemy: humidity that doesn’t forgive shortcuts.
Take the time now. Your future self — and your wallet — will thank you when the sun comes back out in October.