How to Get Water Out of an Inflatable Water Slide?
Removing water from an inflatable water slide isn’t just a maintenance task—it’s critical for preventing mold, preserving material strength, and avoiding customer complaints.
Whether you manage a rental company or operate a water park, efficient water removal keeps your slides safer and longer-lasting.
So, what’s the fastest and most effective way to get water out of a commercial inflatable? Let’s break it down.
Why Is Water Removal So Important?
Standing water is the #1 hidden threat to inflatable slides.
• Mold & mildew: Moisture left in seams can quickly turn into mold growth.
• PVC fiber rot: Long-term moisture weakens the internal mesh structure.
• Storage damage: Wet slides folded too early may crack, stick, or develop odors.
• Customer safety: Hidden water can cause slips or weaken the structure when reused.
Tools You’ll Need to Remove Water Effectively
For a fast and thorough job, these are the essentials:
• ✅ Submersible pump
• ✅ Leaf blower (reverse mode)
• ✅ Wet/dry vacuum
• ✅ Large towels and sponges
• ✅ Elevated platform or blocks for drainage angle
💡 Pro Tip: Install custom grommets in low points of the slide to speed up water release.
Step-by-Step Guide to Get Water Out
Step 1: Partially deflate the slide
Leave some air in the structure to help keep walls upright so water can move freely.
Step 2: Locate and open all drain valves and zippers
These are usually at the lowest parts of the inflatable.
Step 3: Elevate one end of the slide
Use blocks or pallets to tilt the structure so gravity pulls water toward the drain side.
Step 4: Use a pump or vacuum
Remove standing water with a pump. Then use a wet/dry vacuum for seams and corners.
Step 5: Dry tight areas with towels
Wipe down seams, folds, and entry/exit areas. Don’t forget the stairs and base.
Step 6: Use a leaf blower to finish
High airflow can push out trapped mist and dry internal spaces quickly.
How to Know the Slide Is Fully Dry?
‼️Looks dry? Doesn’t mean it is. Here’s how you check:
• Inspect under flaps, folds, and zippers
• Step and listen for squish sounds
• Use dry cloth test: stuff it into a seam for 5 minutes—if damp, it’s not dry
• Use a moisture meter if you have one
Final Prep Before Storage
Once the inflatable slide is fully dry, it’s time to pack it safely.
- Make sure no residual moisture is present inside folds.
- Fold evenly from base up to compress remaining air.
- Place the unit inside a heavy-duty storage bag — for large slides, use oversized custom bags.
- Finally, apply protective plastic wrap to shield the surface during handling and transport.
Conclusion
Removing water from an inflatable slide is more than just pulling the plug.
Done right, it prevents damage, saves money, and increases product safety.
✔️ Partially deflate to assist drainage
✔️ Use gravity, vacuum, towels, and fans
✔️ Fully dry before folding
✔️ Store only when completely dry
📞 Looking for drying tools or custom storage solutions?
👉 Contact our team at InflatPlay — we’re here to help.
