Gear Care 101: Winterizing Your Cooler for Longevity

The camping trips are wrapped up, the hunting season is winding down, and the holiday parties are over. Your Cubix cooler has likely seen a lot of action this year—mud, fish scales, spilled marinades, and maybe a little too much sun.

Before you stash it away in the garage until spring, it needs a little attention.

While our coolers are built to last a lifetime, proper storage is key to keeping them fresh, odor-free, and performing at their peak. Here is your guide on how to store a cooler properly and the essential steps for winterizing outdoor gear.

Step 1: The Deep Clean

A quick hose-down isn't enough for long-term storage. You need to remove any bacteria or food residue that could cause mold growth over the winter.

• The Method: Use a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water. Scrub the interior and exterior with a non-abrasive sponge.

• For Stubborn Odors: If your cooler smells like last month's fishing trip, use a solution of water and bleach (ratio: 1 tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water) or a mixture of baking soda and water. Let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

• Don't Forget the Drain Plug: Remove the drain plug completely to clean the threads where grime likes to hide.

Step 2: The Most Critical Step - DRY IT OUT

The number one enemy of a stored cooler is moisture. Storing a cooler wet, with the lid closed, is a guaranteed recipe for mold and mildew.

• The Method: After washing, towel dry the cooler. Then, let it sit open in a well-ventilated area for at least 24 hours. Ensure it is bone-dry before you move to the next step.

Step 3: Inspect and Lubricate

Your cooler has moving parts that need protection from the cold, dry winter air.

• The Gasket: The rubber freezer-grade gasket is what keeps the cold in. To keep it from drying out or cracking, wipe it down with a small amount of food-grade silicone lubricant or vegetable oil.

• The T-Latches: Inspect your rubber latches for any signs of wear or tearing. If they look worn, winter is the perfect time to order replacements so you're ready for spring.

Step 4: Proper Storage

Now that it's clean and prepped, where should it go?

• Location: Store your cooler in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. While UV-resistant, prolonged exposure over months can eventually fade the color.

• The Lid Trick: We recommend storing the cooler with the drain plug loose or the lid slightly propped open (you can use a small towel or a piece of cardboard) to allow for airflow. This prevents that stale "plastic" smell from building up.

A few minutes of care now guarantees that when the first warm weekend of 2026 hits, your gear is fresh, clean, and ready for adventure.

Need replacement parts or a fresh basket for the new year? Shop Cooler Accessories.