Knowing how to store camping chairs the right way is one of those simple skills that makes a huge difference. It keeps your gear ready for your next adventure and saves you money in the long run. A poorly stored chair can become damaged, dirty, or even a safety hazard. Let’s make sure that doesn’t happen to you.
This guide will walk you through everything. We’ll cover cleaning, drying, and the best storage spots. You’ll learn tips for different chair types and common mistakes to avoid. Proper care means your chairs will last for countless campfires and sunsets.
How To Store Camping Chairs
This main section covers the universal steps for storing any camping chair. Follow these in order for the best results.
Step 1: The All-Important Clean
Never store a dirty chair. Dirt, sap, and food crumbs can stain fabric and attract pests. Start by giving your chair a good shake to loose any dry debris.
- Fabric Seats: Use a mild soap solution and a soft brush or cloth. Gently scrub the fabric and frame where dirt has accumulated. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage coatings or fabrics.
- Metal/Plastic Frames: Wipe down with a damp cloth to remove mud and grime. Pay attention to joints and hinges.
- Spot Cleaning: For stubborn stains like bird droppings or tree sap, a specialized cleaner may be needed. Always check the manufacturer’s label first.
Step 2: Dry It Completely (This is Non-Negotiable)
Moisture is the enemy of stored gear. It causes mold, mildew, and metal corrosion. Even if your chair feels dry, hidden moisture can lurk in fabric folds and frame joints.
- Open the chair fully and let it air dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Direct sun can fade fabrics over time.
- If it was wet, leave it out for several hours or even a full day. Don’t rush this step.
- Run a dry cloth along the metal parts to ensure no water droplets remain, especially if you’ve wiped it down.
Step 3: Folding and Collapsing Correctly
Always fold your chair the way it was designed. Forcing it can bend the frame or tear the fabric. Make sure all locking mechanisms are released before you start to fold.
If the chair is stiff, don’t use excessive force. Check for obstructions like a pebble or twig in the hinge. A little silicone spray on moving parts once a year can keep things smooth.
Step 4: Choosing the Right Storage Location
Where you store your chairs is just as important as how you clean them. The ideal spot is cool, dry, and out of direct sunlight.
- Best Options: A closet, under a bed, in a gear closet, or on a shelf in a dry basement or garage.
- Avoid: Damp cellars, hot attics, or places where they might get crushed by other items. Keep them away from heaters or pipes.
Step 5: Using Storage Bags and Covers
The original carry bag is usually the best place for your chair. It’s sized perfectly and offers basic protection. If the bag is lost or damaged, consider a replacement.
For long-term storage, a breathable cotton sack is better than a plastic bag, which can trap moisture. You can also buy generic chair bags online. Avoid storing them tightly compressed for months on end, as this can stress the fabric weave.
Storage Solutions for Different Chair Types
Not all camping chairs are created equal. Here’s how to tailor your storage approach.
Standard Folding Lawn Chairs
These are the most common. Follow the basic steps above. Ensure the X-frame is fully collapsed so it lies flat. Storing them upright in a corner or hanging them from a hook by their carry strap are great space-saving options.
Low-Sling Camp Chairs
These often have more fabric and complex frames. Be extra thorough with drying the larger seat area. When folding, take care to not pinch the fabric in the scissor mechanisms.
Backpacking Chairs (Helinox Style)
These use lightweight aluminum poles and thin fabric. Be gentle when cleaning the fabric. It’s crucial to ensure all pole segments are completely dry before inserting them back into their stuff sack to prevent internal mildew.
Rocking and Reclining Chairs
These have more moving parts. Wipe down any plastic glides or rocking mechanisms. If possible, store them in a position that doesn’t put constant pressure on the reclining latch or springs.
Directors Chairs and Canopy Chairs
For directors chairs, consider loosening the canvas tension slightly during storage to prevent over-stretching. Canopy chairs require you to clean and dry the canopy fabric separately, and its best to detach it if possible for flat storage.
Common Storage Mistakes to Avoid
Steer clear of these errors that can shorten your chair’s life.
Storing It Dirty or Wet
This is the number one cause of mold and rust. Even morning dew counts. Always, always dry your chair.
Forcing the Chair Closed
If it won’t fold easily, something is wrong. Check for fabric in the hinges or a bent frame part. Forcing it will only make the problem worse and could lead to a brake.
Using Plastic Bins Without Ventilation
Airtight plastic totes can trap humidity. If you use them, leave the lid slightly cracked or add a desiccant silica gel pack to absorb moisture. Breathable bags are generally safer.
Overloading in Storage
Don’t pile heavy boxes or other gear on top of your stored chairs. This can permanently bend the frame or crush the fabric, affecting their stability when you use them next.
Ignoring the Manufacturer’s Instructions
Some chairs have specific care notes. It’s worth checking the tag or manual that came with your chair for any special recommendations.
Long-Term & Off-Season Storage Tips
If you’re packing your chairs away for the winter or several months, a little extra care goes a long way.
- Deep Clean: Give them a more thorough wash than you might after a single trip.
- Inspect for Damage: Look for small tears, loose stitches, or frame corrosion. Fixing a small tear now with a patch kit prevents it from becoming a big rip later.
- Loosen Straps: If your chair has tight elastic or tension straps, storing them slightly loose can prevent the elastic from wearing out.
- Elevate Off the Floor: In garages or basements, place them on a shelf or pallet to avoid potential dampness from concrete floors.
- Climate Control is Key: A temperature-stable environment prevents material degradation from extreme heat or cold.
Space-Saving Storage Ideas for Your Gear
For those with limited space, getting creative can help.
- Wall Hooks & Racks: Install heavy-duty hooks or a vertical rack on a garage or closet wall. Hang chairs by their carry straps.
- Overhead Garage Storage: Use a pulley system or sturdy racks mounted to the ceiling joists to get them up and out of the way.
- Under-Bed Storage: The classic space-saver. Slide them under a bed in their bags.
- Dedicated Gear Corner: Designate a specific “camping corner” in a closet or basement to keep all your outdoor gear together.
- Label Everything: If you use bins, label them clearly. It makes grabbing gear for a last-minute trip much easier.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I leave my camping chairs outside?
It’s not recommended for long periods. Even weather-resistant chairs will degrade faster from constant sun, rain, and temperature swings. Always bring them in after use.
How do you store camping chairs in a small apartment?
Use vertical space. Hang them on the back of a door, in a closet, or on a wall. Under-bed storage is also a perfect solution for small living spaces.
What is the best way to store folding chairs?
The best way is clean, completely dry, folded properly, and placed in a breathable bag in a cool, dry location like a closet or under a bed.
How can I prevent mold on my camping chair?
Absolute prevention starts with never storing it damp. Ensure it is 100% dry. If storing in a humid area, use moisture-absorbing products and ensure good air circulation around the chair.
Should you oil the joints on a camping chair?
A light application of a dry silicone-based lubricant on moving parts once a year can help. Avoid oily sprays like WD-40, as they can attract dirt and stain fabric.
Can I wash my camping chair in the washing machine?
Almost never. The agitation can destroy the fabric’s coatings and stitching. Hand washing is the only safe method for most camp chair fabrics. Always check the label first.
Taking the time to store your camping chairs properly might seem like a small task. But it directly impacts how long they last and how reliable they are when you need them. A well-maintained chair is a trusty companion for years of outdoor memories. By following these straightforward steps, you’ll ensure your chairs are always ready to provide a comfortable seat wherever your adventures take you.