How to Store Your Horse Trailer for the Winter

Winterize your horse trailer in the fall so that it is not damaged and is in working condition during the spring when the snows melt. Take proper care of the trailer even when it is being used. Proper maintenance year-round results in less preparation for the trailer's winter storage. Once the trailer is ready for winter, it only needs minor check-ups until spring.

Things You'll Need

  • Truck
  • Water
  • Bucket
  • Cleaner
  • Scrub brush
  • Soft cloth
  • Towel
  • Foil (optional)
  • Trailer user manual
  • Non-toxic antifreeze
  • Barn or shed (optional)
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Park the truck and horse trailer on a smooth, flat surface. Always conduct the winterization on a flat surface to prevent the trailer from moving.

    • 2

      Remove items like horse tack, blankets or any other items stored in the trailer that are not necessary for the trailer. These will usually need cleaning before storing them for the winter.

    • 3

      Clean the horse trailer thoroughly. Use hot water and an appropriate cleaner for the materials within the trailer. Scrub all surfaces well. Choose a mild detergent with antibacterial properties for cleaning. Scrub the entire trailer to remove any built-up dirt, grime or hay that might get into cracks and crevices. Rinse everything and wipe with a cloth to clean even the smallest cracks. Dry the trailer completely to prevent mold, mildew and bacteria build-up.

    • 4

      Close the trailer curtains. Lakota of Ohio suggests putting foil in the windows to protect the curtains from UV rays. This is only necessary if you will store the trailer outside. If the trailer will be stored in the shed, skip the foil and pull the curtains closed.

    • 5

      Turn off all electrical devices in the trailer. Never leave electrical devices running through the winter as it can result in battery drain and fire hazards.

    • 6

      Drain the water hoses or any other hoses on the trailer. The number and method will differ for each trailer and design. Refer to the trailer user manual for specific instructions to remove the water hose for draining. Once removed, let the water in the hose drain out.

    • 7

      Drain water tanks. Empty the water tanks and then clean them with a mild detergent and scrub brush. Drain the water tanks by opening all of the faucets, drains and low-point drains in the trailer. Turn off the water tank by flipping the switch to "Off." Close the drains and water tank valve and then add nontoxic antifreeze to the system according to the antifreeze directions. Turn the water tank back on so the antifreeze circulates. Turn off the water tank after a few minutes.

    • 8

      Close windows, doors and vents on the trailer. This prevents moisture build-up and insect damage during the winter months.

    • 9

      Move the trailer to the shed or barn if possible for winter storage. If not, check up on the trailer every few days and remove any snow as soon as possible throughout the winter.