Quick answer
To store an AirFort, turn off the fan and let the fabric deflate, then fold it loosely along its original creases and place it in a breathable bag or bin in a cool, dry spot. The whole routine takes about five minutes and prevents trapped moisture, permanent creases, and lost parts.
Before you start: check the fabric and the fan
Give the AirFort a quick once-over before you pack it away. Look for crumbs, sticky spots, or small tears along the seams and fan opening. A two-minute check now saves you from pulling out a musty or damaged fort next time. Wipe any visible mess with a damp cloth and let it air-dry completely before folding.
Where to store it matters as much as how
Choose a spot that stays dry and out of direct sunlight. A closet shelf, under a bed, or a garage cabinet works well. Avoid damp basements, hot attics, and anywhere mice or insects can reach. If you store it in a bin, leave the lid slightly ajar or use a breathable cotton bag so air can circulate.
Keep the fan and accessories together
Box fans are not included with AirFort, so label or bag your fan separately if you use it for other things. Keep the storage bag, any repair tabs, and the fan in one place. A small labeled tote means you never hunt for the fan while the kids wait.
Step-by-step storage routine
- Turn off the fan and unplug it: Switch off the fan and pull the plug. Let the AirFort deflate on its own for a minute or two. Don't yank the fabric off the fan while it's still running. Checkpoint: the fabric should be limp and cool before you touch it.
- Shake out crumbs and debris: Lift the fort by two corners and give it a gentle shake over a trash can or outside. Pay attention to the corners where snacks and small toys collect. Mistake to avoid: folding while crumbs are still inside, which can grind into the fabric.
- Wipe the inside and outside if needed: Use a damp cloth with mild soap on any sticky spots. Wipe the fan opening and seams too. Let the fabric air-dry fully before folding. Checkpoint: no damp spots remain. Damp fabric stored in a bin can grow mildew.
- Fold along the original creases: Lay the fort flat and fold it loosely along the lines it already has. Don't wring or twist it. A loose rectangle that fits your storage bag is the goal. Mistake to avoid: folding it tight and small, which creates sharp creases that weaken over time.
- Slide it into a breathable bag or bin: Use the original storage bag or a cotton pillowcase. If you use a plastic bin, leave the lid cracked open so air can move. Store the fan alongside it if you have room. Checkpoint: the fort slides in without forcing.
- Pick a cool, dry storage spot: Place the bag on a shelf or under a bed away from sunlight, heaters, and damp floors. Avoid garages that swing between hot and cold if you can. Mistake to avoid: storing it against a concrete basement wall where moisture creeps in.
- Do a quick check every few months: Pull the fort out, unfold it, and check for musty smells or new tears. If it smells stale, air it out in the shade for an hour before refolding. Next step: if you spot a tear, repair it before the next play session.
Products that fit this storage routine
- Farmers Barn + FREE AirFort Buddy Chicken Pillow (While Supplies Last!): Works with any standard box fan (box fan not included). You can store the AirFort without its fan, but keeping the fan with the fort makes setup faster next time.
- The Original AirFort - Cabin: Slightly larger AirFort structure. A larger fort needs a bit more folding room, so clear a bed or floor space before you start.
- The Original DreamFort - With Glow In The Dark Stars!: Wraps right over a twin bed. If the DreamFort stays on the bed, you may only need to deflate and tuck it, not fully pack it away.
