5 Easy Steps to Drain and Store an Intex Pool: Complete Guide (2026)

TL;DR: Drain and store Intex pools in 5 easy steps: drain water completely using drain valve and submersible pump (1-3 hours), clean pool thoroughly with mild soap and soft brush, dry pool completely in sun (4-6 hours), fold pool carefully avoiding creases, and store in dry location with original box or storage bag. Proper storage extends pool life 3-5 years, prevents mold and mildew, and ensures easy setup next season. Total time: 6-10 hours. Cost: $0-$100 for cleaning supplies and pump if needed.

SEO Summary: Complete 2026 guide to draining and storing Intex pools covering proper drainage methods, thorough cleaning procedures, complete drying techniques, careful folding methods, and optimal storage conditions. Expert advice on extending pool lifespan, preventing damage, avoiding mold and mildew, and ensuring easy spring setup through proper end-of-season care.

Step 1: Drain the Pool Completely

Proper drainage is the first and most important step in storing your Intex pool. Complete water removal prevents mold, mildew, and damage during storage.

Why Complete Drainage Matters:

• Prevents mold and mildew growth during storage
• Reduces weight for easier handling and folding
• Allows thorough cleaning of pool surfaces
• Prevents freezing damage if stored in cold areas
• Eliminates stagnant water odors
• Ensures pool ready for next season

Drainage Methods:

Method 1: Built-In Drain Valve (Slowest):

• Locate drain valve at bottom of pool
• Attach drain hose to valve (usually included with pool)
• Open valve and direct water to drainage area
• Drainage time: 2-4 hours for average pool
• Pros: No additional equipment needed, simple
• Cons: Slow, requires gravity drainage, may not remove all water

Method 2: Submersible Pump (Fastest, Recommended):

• Place submersible pump in deepest part of pool
• Attach garden hose to pump discharge
• Direct hose to drainage area (away from pool)
• Plug pump into GFCI outlet
• Drainage time: 30-90 minutes for average pool
• Pros: Fast, removes water to 1/8 inch, efficient
• Cons: Requires pump purchase ($50-$150)

The HydroTools 500 GPH Submersible Electric Pool Cover Pump quickly drains Intex pools and serves multiple purposes year-round.

The Intex Pool Sand Filter Pump with Pool Vacuum and Wall Mount Skimmer provides complete filtration and cleaning system for Intex pools.

Method 3: Combination Method (Best Results):

• Use drain valve to remove bulk of water (first 80-90%)
• Use submersible pump to remove remaining water
• Ensures complete drainage
• Drainage time: 1-3 hours total
• Recommended for thorough water removal

Drainage Procedure:

1. Stop adding chemicals 24-48 hours before draining
2. Turn off and disconnect filter pump
3. Remove ladder, accessories, and toys from pool
4. Choose drainage location (storm drain, street, yard area away from foundation)
5. Begin draining using chosen method
6. Monitor drainage to ensure proper flow
7. Tilt pool slightly to direct remaining water to drain point
8. Remove final puddles with towels or wet/dry vacuum

Important Drainage Considerations:

• Drainage Location: Check local regulations, never drain into septic system
• Chlorine Levels: Wait 24-48 hours after last chlorine addition before draining
• Water Temperature: Drain when water warm for easier handling
• Weather: Choose sunny, warm day for draining and drying
• Time Required: Allow full day for draining, cleaning, and drying

Common Drainage Mistakes to Avoid:

• Draining into neighbor's yard or foundation area
• Leaving standing water in pool (causes mold)
• Draining pool with high chlorine levels (kills grass, plants)
• Rushing drainage process (incomplete removal)
• Not checking local drainage regulations

Step 2: Clean the Pool Thoroughly

Thorough cleaning before storage prevents mold, mildew, stains, and odors. Clean pools last longer and set up easier next season.

Why Thorough Cleaning Matters:

• Prevents mold and mildew growth during storage
• Removes algae, bacteria, and organic matter
• Eliminates stains and discoloration
• Prevents odors in stored pool
• Extends pool liner lifespan
• Ensures fresh, clean pool for next season

The Intex Basic Pool Cleaning Kit provides essential tools for thorough pool cleaning before storage.

The Intex Cleaning Maintenance Swimming Pool Kit with 15' Cover includes complete cleaning supplies and protective cover.

Cleaning Supplies Needed:

• Mild dish soap or pool cleaner (avoid harsh chemicals)
• Soft-bristle brush or sponge (won't damage liner)
• Garden hose with spray nozzle
• Bucket for soap solution
• Soft towels or rags
• Optional: Vinyl cleaner specifically for pool liners

The Swimline H2O Pro Pool Brush effectively cleans pool surfaces without damaging vinyl liners.

Cleaning Procedure:

1. Remove Debris:

• Remove all visible leaves, dirt, and debris
• Use soft brush to sweep debris to one area
• Scoop out debris with net or hands
• Dispose of debris properly

2. Scrub Pool Surfaces:

• Mix mild dish soap with warm water in bucket (1-2 tablespoons per gallon)
• Dip soft brush or sponge in soap solution
• Scrub entire pool interior in circular motions
• Pay special attention to waterline (oils and residue accumulate)
• Scrub bottom, walls, and corners thoroughly
• Don't use abrasive brushes or harsh chemicals (damage liner)

3. Rinse Thoroughly:

• Rinse entire pool with clean water from garden hose
• Use spray nozzle for thorough rinsing
• Ensure all soap residue removed (prevents slippery surface)
• Rinse multiple times if needed
• Tilt pool to drain rinse water

4. Clean Pool Exterior:

• Wipe down exterior with damp cloth
• Remove dirt, grass, and debris from outside
• Clean bottom of pool (will be folded inside)
• Ensure entire pool clean inside and out

5. Spot Clean Stains:

• Identify stubborn stains or algae spots
• Apply vinyl cleaner or baking soda paste to stains
• Gently scrub with soft brush
• Rinse thoroughly
• Repeat if necessary

Cleaning Tips:

• Use only mild, non-abrasive cleaners
• Never use bleach, harsh chemicals, or abrasive scrubbers
• Clean on warm, sunny day for faster drying
• Don't skip exterior cleaning (dirt transfers during folding)
• Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap (prevents mildew)

What NOT to Use:

• Bleach or chlorine-based cleaners (damage vinyl)
• Abrasive scrubbers or steel wool (scratch liner)
• Harsh chemical cleaners (degrade vinyl)
• Pressure washer (too powerful, damages seams)
• Petroleum-based products (damage vinyl)

Step 3: Dry the Pool Completely

Complete drying is critical for preventing mold, mildew, and odors during storage. Moisture trapped in stored pool causes permanent damage.

Why Complete Drying Matters:

• Prevents mold and mildew growth (primary cause of pool damage)
• Eliminates musty odors in storage
• Prevents vinyl degradation from moisture
• Ensures pool ready for immediate use next season
• Prevents staining from trapped moisture
• Extends pool lifespan significantly

Drying Methods:

Method 1: Sun Drying (Best, Recommended):

• Spread pool out in sunny area
• Ensure entire surface exposed to sun and air
• Flip pool halfway through drying (dry both sides)
• Drying time: 4-6 hours in full sun
• Pros: Thorough, natural, kills bacteria
• Cons: Requires sunny day, takes several hours

Method 2: Towel Drying:

• Use clean, dry towels to wipe entire pool
• Absorb water from all surfaces
• Pay attention to seams and corners
• Drying time: 1-2 hours plus air drying
• Pros: Faster initial drying, works in any weather
• Cons: Labor intensive, may miss moisture in seams

Method 3: Combination Method (Most Thorough):

• Towel dry pool to remove bulk moisture
• Spread in sun for final drying
• Flip to dry both sides completely
• Drying time: 3-5 hours total
• Recommended for best results

Drying Procedure:

1. Remove all standing water with towels or wet/dry vacuum
2. Spread pool flat in sunny, clean area (driveway, patio, lawn)
3. Ensure no wrinkles or folds (traps moisture)
4. Allow to dry in sun for 2-3 hours
5. Flip pool over to expose other side
6. Dry second side for 2-3 hours
7. Check seams, corners, and valve areas for moisture
8. Ensure 100% dry before folding and storage

Drying Tips:

• Choose warm, sunny, low-humidity day
• Start drying early in day (allows full drying time)
• Spread pool on clean surface (prevents dirt pickup)
• Check weather forecast (avoid rain)
• Don't rush drying process (moisture causes mold)
• Pay special attention to seams and thick areas
• Use fan to speed drying if needed

How to Check for Complete Dryness:

• Touch all surfaces, especially seams and corners
• Check for any cool or damp spots
• Inspect valve area and drain plug location
• Ensure no moisture in folds or wrinkles
• If any doubt, allow more drying time
• Better to over-dry than under-dry

Common Drying Mistakes:

• Folding pool while still damp (causes mold)
• Drying only one side (moisture trapped)
• Rushing drying process (incomplete drying)
• Storing pool with any moisture (mildew guaranteed)
• Not checking seams and corners (moisture hides there)

Step 4: Fold the Pool Carefully

Proper folding prevents creases, damage, and makes storage easier. Careful folding extends pool life and ensures easy setup next season.

Why Proper Folding Matters:

• Prevents permanent creases and weak spots
• Protects pool from damage during storage
• Makes pool fit in storage container or bag
• Easier to handle and transport
• Prevents stress on seams and material
• Ensures pool maintains shape for next season

Folding Preparation:

• Ensure pool 100% dry before folding
• Choose clean, flat surface for folding
• Remove any remaining debris or dirt
• Have storage container or bag ready
• Enlist helper for large pools (easier with two people)

Folding Procedure for Round Pools:

1. Lay pool flat on clean surface
2. Fold pool in half (creating half-circle)
3. Fold in half again (creating quarter-circle)
4. Continue folding in half until manageable size
5. Avoid sharp creases (gentle folds better)
6. Roll pool from one end if preferred (alternative to folding)
7. Secure with straps or place in storage bag

Folding Procedure for Rectangular Pools:

1. Lay pool flat on clean surface
2. Fold long sides toward center (creating thirds)
3. Fold short ends toward center
4. Continue folding until compact size
5. Alternatively, roll from one short end to other
6. Secure with straps or place in storage bag

Rolling Method (Alternative):

• Lay pool flat and smooth out wrinkles
• Start at one end and roll tightly
• Keep roll even and tight
• Secure rolled pool with straps or rope
• Pros: Fewer creases, easier for some pool shapes
• Cons: May be bulkier than folding

Folding Tips:

• Fold on clean surface (prevents dirt pickup)
• Make gentle folds, not sharp creases
• Keep folds even and symmetrical
• Don't force pool into too-small space
• Use original box dimensions as guide
• Secure folded pool to maintain shape
• Label storage container for easy identification

What to Include with Folded Pool:

• Pool pump and filter (clean and dry)
• Hoses and connectors
• Ladder (if detachable)
• Drain plug and valve caps
• Pool cover (if separate)
• Instruction manual
• Patch kit for repairs

The Intex 48" Pool Ladder should be cleaned, dried, and stored with your pool for next season.

The Intex Filter Cartridge 12 Pack with Pool Cover provides replacement filters and protective cover for complete pool care.

Step 5: Store in Proper Location

Proper storage location protects pool from damage, pests, and environmental factors. Correct storage ensures pool lasts 3-5 years or longer.

Why Proper Storage Location Matters:

• Protects pool from rodents and pests
• Prevents temperature damage (extreme heat or cold)
• Keeps pool clean and ready for next season
• Prevents moisture damage and mold growth
• Protects from physical damage
• Extends pool lifespan significantly

Ideal Storage Locations:

Best Options:

• Indoor Closet: Climate controlled, protected, ideal
• Basement: Cool, dry, protected (avoid damp basements)
• Garage: Protected from elements, accessible
• Attic: Dry, protected (check temperature extremes)
• Shed: Protected, ensure rodent-proof

Acceptable Options:

• Covered porch or patio (in sealed container)
• Under deck (protected from rain, in sealed container)
• Storage unit (climate controlled preferred)

Avoid These Locations:

• Outdoor uncovered areas (weather damage)
• Damp basements (mold and mildew)
• Direct sunlight (UV damage to vinyl)
• Near heat sources (vinyl degradation)
• Areas accessible to rodents (chewing damage)
• Freezing locations without protection

Storage Container Options:

Original Box (Best):

• Designed specifically for pool
• Proper size and protection
• Easy to identify contents
• Stackable for space efficiency
• Recommended if available

Storage Bag:

• Heavy-duty plastic or canvas bag
• Protects from dust and pests
• More compact than box
• Ensure bag fully sealed

The RSPD Pool Storage Bag Large Capacity provides excellent storage solution for pool accessories and equipment.

Plastic Storage Bin:

• Waterproof and rodent-resistant
• Stackable and durable
• Choose size that fits folded pool comfortably
• Label clearly for easy identification

Storage Procedure:

1. Place folded, dry pool in storage container
2. Add pool accessories (pump, hoses, ladder)
3. Include instruction manual and patch kit
4. Add moisture absorber packet if desired (prevents any residual moisture)
5. Seal container completely
6. Label container clearly ("Intex Pool - 12ft" etc.)
7. Store in chosen location off ground if possible
8. Keep away from sharp objects and heavy items

Storage Tips:

• Store off ground on shelf or pallet (prevents moisture)
• Don't stack heavy items on pool container
• Keep away from chemicals, solvents, and petroleum products
• Ensure storage area dry and well-ventilated
• Check stored pool mid-winter for any issues
• Keep storage area rodent-free
• Maintain moderate temperature (avoid extreme heat or cold)

Long-Term Storage Considerations:

• Check pool condition every few months
• Ensure no moisture accumulation in container
• Verify no pest damage
• Confirm storage location remains dry
• Re-dry pool if any moisture detected

The Intex 12' x 30" Above Ground Swimming Pool & Pool Maintenance Kit includes everything needed for pool care and storage.

The Westbay Supreme Swimming Pool Maintenance Kit provides essential tools for pool maintenance and preparation for storage.

Conclusion: Proper Storage Extends Pool Life

Following these 5 easy steps to drain and store your Intex pool extends pool lifespan from 1-2 years to 3-5 years or longer. Proper drainage removes all water preventing mold, thorough cleaning eliminates contaminants, complete drying prevents mildew, careful folding avoids damage, and proper storage protects from environmental factors.

The entire process takes 6-10 hours but saves $100-$300 annually in pool replacement costs. Invest time in proper storage procedures and your Intex pool will provide years of reliable summer enjoyment. Don't rush the process, especially drying moisture is the primary cause of stored pool damage.

Start storage process on warm, sunny day with low humidity. Allow full day for draining, cleaning, and drying. Never fold or store damp pool. Use proper storage container in climate-controlled location. Check stored pool periodically during off-season.

Proper end-of-season care is investment in next season's enjoyment. Pool properly stored sets up quickly and easily in spring, ready for immediate use. Take time to do it right, and your Intex pool will reward you with years of family fun and memories.

Explore our complete selection of Intex pool accessories and maintenance supplies for all your pool care needs.

Key Takeaways:

• Drain Intex pool completely using drain valve, submersible pump, or combination method in 1-3 hours
• Clean pool thoroughly with mild soap and soft brush, rinse completely to remove all residue
• Dry pool 100% in sun for 4-6 hours, flip to dry both sides, check seams and corners
• Fold pool carefully with gentle folds or roll from one end, avoid sharp creases
• Store in dry, climate-controlled location in original box, storage bag, or sealed plastic bin
• Proper storage extends pool life from 1-2 years to 3-5 years or longer
• Never store damp pool—moisture causes mold, mildew, and permanent damage
• Total process takes 6-10 hours but saves $100-$300 annually in replacement costs
• Check stored pool mid-winter for moisture, pests, or damage
• Submersible pump speeds drainage from 2-4 hours to 30-90 minutes
• Store pool off ground, away from chemicals, sharp objects, and heavy items
• Include all accessories, manual, and patch kit in storage container for next season

Remember that proper pool storage is not just about putting the pool away it's about protecting your investment and ensuring years of enjoyment. The few hours spent properly draining, cleaning, drying, folding, and storing your Intex pool pay enormous dividends through extended pool life, easy spring setup, and reliable performance season after season. Treat your pool with care during storage, and it will treat your family to countless hours of summer fun for years to come.