Ride on toys. They zoom, they spin, and they make your kids smile ear to ear. But when the weather turns, or your hallway starts looking like a Formula 1 pit stop, you’ll need a game plan to store those beloved wheels.
Here’s how to store ride on toys properly so they survive the rain, the cold, and even the toy pile-up in your garage, and are ready for more fun when playtime calls.
Why does storing ride on toys matter?
Whether it’s an electric ride on car or a push-along quad, these toys need some TLC, especially once the winter months hit.
Without proper storage, your ride on toys won’t be as protected as they could be:
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Rain and snow cause moisture buildup, leading to rust and battery damage.
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Direct sunlight fades plastics and makes them brittle.
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Forgotten toys left on the patio or lawn become surprise tripping hazards (been there).
Storing ride on toys the right way means fewer tears, longer lifespan, and no surprise repairs next spring.
Outdoor storage ideas
Not everyone has a garage, spare room or medium-sized shed to stash away a fleet of kids’ vehicles, and that’s okay! If your ride on has to live outside for a bit, here’s how to do it safely.
1. Use outdoor storage boxes or a garden shed
A larger shed or outdoor storage box is perfect for keeping medium-sized toys like electric ride ons dry and protected from rain, snow and freezing temperatures.
Stack smaller toys in baskets or bins inside, and tuck larger toys into corners to make the most of your space. You’ll be amazed how many ride ons you can fit in with a little rearranging.
2. Add a waterproof cover
If the toy has to be left out in the open, a waterproof cover is your new best friend. It’ll protect against dirt, rain, frost and debris.
Outdoor Toys offers ride on car covers in small, medium and large, perfect for everything from tiny toddler trikes to full-blown electric SUVs.
3. Avoid direct sun and wet ground
Plastic doesn’t love harsh sun or soggy soil. If possible, place toys under a covered patio, beside a wall, or raised off the ground on pallets or rubber mats. It keeps them cleaner, drier, and less likely to warp or crack.
Indoor storage tips
Lucky enough to have a garage, basement, or spare room? These are ideal for storing ride on toys long-term, especially over winter.
1. Clean before you store
Kids are experts at getting toys sticky, crumb-covered, and mysteriously gross. Before putting anything away for an extended period, give it a good clean.
Use mild soap and a damp cloth, then dry it fully to prevent moisture buildup. Pay extra attention to wheels, crevices, and those hidden snack stash zones.
2. Organise by size and type
Keep smaller toys in boxes, and larger ride ons neatly lined up (like a tiny car showroom). If you’re short on floor space, use shelving or even wall hooks for helmets and accessories.
Group toys by age or theme to make post-storage playtime smoother.
3. Disassemble or secure loose parts
Remove any loose parts, such as mirrors, steering wheels, and number plates, and keep them in clearly labelled bags.
Special care for electric ride on toys
Got a power wheel or electric ride on car? They need a little extra love.
These beauties have car batteries, electrical components, and wires that don’t appreciate the cold or wet.
Here’s how to store them right:
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Fully charge the battery before storing.
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For longer breaks, store with a partial charge (~50%) to avoid battery drain.
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Unplug the charger once done. No one wants a fried battery!
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Store in a temperature-controlled space, like a garage or indoor cupboard.
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Keep away from freezing temperatures, heat, or moisture.
Wipe down the battery connections with a clean cloth to remove dust and check regularly during downtime.
Think seasonally: Your year-round ride on toy checklist
Different seasons bring different toy troubles. Stay ahead of the game with these easy tips:
Winter
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Don’t leave ride on toys out in the snow - it’s a shortcut to cracked plastic and busted wheels.
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Store indoors or use waterproof covers.
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Keep toys off the cold ground with blocks or mats.
Spring
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Watch for condensation and rust. Wipe down electric cars and check batteries before use.
Summer
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Avoid direct sunlight. It can fade paint and damage electrical components.
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Park in the shade or indoors if possible.
Autumn
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Leaves, mud, and rain can clog wheels and rot soft materials.
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Clean and dry toys regularly and keep that storage solution ready.
Easy ride on toy safety checks
Before you let your little one hop back on and zoom off, do a quick safety scan:
✔️ Check wheels, axles, and steering for smooth movement
✔️ Look for loose parts, cracks or broken bits
✔️ Test the brakes (if it has them)
✔️ Double-check the battery is charged and secure
✔️ Dust off the helmet and elbow pads, too, just in case
Keep your ride ons ready to roll with Outdoor Toys
At Outdoor Toys, we know kids love their ride ons, and parents love keeping them safe! Whether you’re looking for electric cars, tractors, or pedal bikes, we’ve got everything you need for imaginative play that lasts.
We also stock a wide range of outdoor toys, including climbing frames, mud kitchens, swing sets, and paddling pools, plus covers and storage solutions to protect them all year round.
Keep the fun going through every season; explore our full collection today and make playtime last longer.
FAQs
Can I leave ride on toys outside?
It’s best not to. Rain, snow, and freezing temperatures can cause damage to plastic, wheels, and electrical parts. Use a waterproof cover or shed for protection if you must store them outdoors.
How do I store an electric ride on car for winter?
Charge the battery halfway, clean the toy, and store it in a dry, temperature‑controlled space. Avoid freezing temperatures and moisture to protect electrical components.
Can I store ride on toys in a garage?
Yes! Garages make excellent storage solutions. Just keep toys off the floor using racks or mats, and cover them to prevent dust or dirt buildup.