Hard Cooler Care Instructions
A hard cooler is a long-term investment — and a little maintenance after each trip goes a long way. Proper cleaning prevents odors and mildew, correct storage protects the seals and hardware, and a few simple habits between uses keep your cooler performing the way it did on day one.
Prechill your cooler and its contents before packing. Fill with plenty of cubed ice for the best cooling performance.
Always lift your cooler using the handles or wheels. Dragging can wear down the base over time.
Wash with mild soap and warm water after each use. For tough stains, use baking soda and water. Clean promptly after saltwater exposure.
Air dry completely with the lid open before storing. Store in a cool, dry place away from heat to help prevent mold and mildew.
How to Clean Your Hard Cooler:
After every trip, wash the inside and outside with mild soap and warm water. For tough stains, a paste of baking soda and water works well without damaging the interior. If you’ve used the cooler near saltwater, clean it as soon as possible after the trip — salt residue accelerates wear on hardware and seals over time.
A few things to always avoid:- Hand wash only — no dishwasher
- No boiling water
- No microwaving
Keep the cooler away from open flames, chemicals, acids, and strong alkalis.
How to Dry Your Hard Cooler Properly:
After cleaning, leave the lid open and let the cooler air dry completely before closing or storing it. Trapping any moisture inside is the fastest way to develop mold or mildew, especially after longer trips where the cooler has been holding water for several days.
Never store a cooler with the lid closed while it’s still damp inside.
How to Store Your Hard Cooler:
Store your cooler in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight when not in use. UV exposure won’t affect performance, but it will cause fading over time — keeping it out of the sun between trips slows that process.
A few additional storage tips:- Keep the lid slightly open or propped during long-term storage to allow airflow and prevent odor buildup
- Store away from chemicals or anything with strong fumes
- Do not leave the cooler submerged in water for more than four hours
- Keep away from hot surfaces; prolonged contact with heat can affect the base of the cooler.
Always lift your cooler when moving it—do not drag it across the ground. Dragging wears down the base and can compromise the structural integrity of the cooler over time, especially on rough or abrasive surfaces. Use the handles or wheels if your cooler is equipped with them.
