How to Get Water Out of Your Kayak: Quick & Easy

Last Updated on June 14, 2026 by Jaxon Mike

Getting water out of your kayak is usually a pretty straightforward process. The most common way to drain a kayak is by using a bailer or a sponge to soak up excess water, and then letting the rest run out through the drain plug or scupper holes. Don’t worry, a little water is totally normal on most kayak trips!

Even after you’ve bailed and sponged, some water might linger. This is especially true if your kayak has a sit-on-top design with scupper holes. Knowing how to get your kayak as dry as possible helps keep it in good condition and ready for your next adventure. We’ve researched and found that these simple steps work well for most paddlers.

• Empty main water first with a bailer.
• Use a sponge for remaining droplets.
• Check and open the drain plug.
• Wipe down the interior and exterior.
• Store your kayak properly to air out.

Let’s walk through exactly how to get your kayak dry, step by step. You’ll have it ready for storage or your next outing in no time!

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Draining Water From Your Kayak Effectively

Getting water out of your kayak after a paddle is pretty simple. You want to remove as much as possible. This prevents mold and mildew. It also makes your kayak lighter for storage. We found that a few basic tools and techniques get the job done quickly.

Essential Tools for Water Removal

The Mighty Bailer: Your First Line of Defense

Think of a bailer as a bucket. It’s specifically designed for boats. You use it to scoop water out of your kayak’s hull. Many kayak anglers and recreational paddlers keep one tied in their boat. It’s a lifesaver when you’ve taken on more water than expected.

Sponges: For Those Stubborn Droplets

Even after bailing, you’ll have residual water. This is where a good sponge comes in handy. A marine-grade sponge is best. They are absorbent and durable. You can also use a regular sponge. Just make sure it’s clean. You don’t want to introduce any gunk into your kayak. We found that highly absorbent sponges work the fastest.

The Humble Towel: For a Final Polish

A soft towel is great for drying the inside and outside. This is your final step. It removes any last bits of moisture. It also gives your kayak a nice, clean look. Microfiber towels are excellent for this. They dry quickly and don’t leave lint behind.

Step-by-Step: Getting Your Kayak Dry

Step 1: Remove the Bulk Water

Start by using your bailer. Scoop out as much standing water as you can. Tip your kayak slightly to one side. This helps gather the water towards the lowest point. Make repeated scoops until there’s only a shallow puddle left. This is the most important step for efficiency.

Step 2: Soak Up the Remainder with a Sponge

Now, grab your sponge. Work your way around the hull. Soak up all the remaining water. Wring the sponge out frequently. You might need to wring it into your bailer or over the side of the kayak. Get into all the nooks and crannies. This ensures you’re removing almost all the moisture.

Step 3: Utilize the Drain Plug (If Applicable)

Many kayaks have a drain plug. This is usually at the stern or transom. Open this plug to let any remaining water drain out. For sit-on-top kayaks, you might have scupper holes. These also allow water to drain. Ensure they aren’t blocked by debris. Some people use a small brush to clear them. We found that tilting the kayak helps water flow out faster through the plug.

Checking for Blockages

Before opening the drain plug, take a quick look. Is there any sand or dirt around it? If so, wipe it clean. This prevents cross-threading when you unscrew it. It also ensures a good seal when you close it later. A clean drain plug means no leaks on your next trip.

Step 4: Towel Dry the Interior and Exterior

Use your towel to wipe down the entire interior of the kayak. Pay attention to any areas where water might have pooled. Then, dry the outside of the hull. This is especially important if you store your kayak outside. Less moisture means less chance of mold growth. This step leaves your kayak looking pristine.

Step 5: Air Out Before Storage

The best way to ensure your kayak is truly dry is to let it air out. Store it in a well-ventilated area. Don’t put a wet kayak straight into a dark shed. Open hatches if your kayak has them. This allows air to circulate. Even a day or two of airing can make a big difference. Many experts recommend this to prevent mildew (CDC).

Quick Checklist for a Dry Kayak

• Scoop out bulk water with a bailer.
• Use a sponge for residual moisture.
• Open drain plug and clear scuppers.
• Wipe down all surfaces thoroughly.
• Let the kayak air dry completely.
• Inspect for any remaining damp spots.

Sit-on-Top Kayaks and Scupper Holes

Sit-on-top kayaks collect water differently. Water typically enters through scupper holes. These are designed to let water drain out while you’re paddling. However, after you get out, you’ll still have water inside the cockpit area. You’ll use your bailer and sponge for this area.

Dealing with Scupper Hole Water

The primary way to drain scupper holes is by tilting the kayak. Tip it so the holes are at the lowest point. Water should flow out. You can also use a small object, like a paddle or stick, to poke through them. This dislodges any debris. Remember to dry around the scupper holes with your towel.

A Table of Common Kayak Water Removal Methods

Method	Best For	Pros	Cons
Bailing	Large amounts of water	Fast, effective for bulk removal	Can be tiring, may leave small puddles
Sponge	Residual water, tight spots	Absorbent, gets into crevices	Takes time, requires frequent wringing
Drain Plug/Scuppers	Final draining	Automatic or passive drainage	Can get clogged, only works when tilted
Towel Drying	Final drying, surfaces	Removes all dampness, cleaning	Can be time-consuming for large kayaks

Taking a few extra minutes to dry your kayak properly pays off. It keeps your equipment in good shape. It also ensures it’s ready for your next adventure without any surprises. Many paddlers find that a routine makes this process quick and easy.

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Conclusion

You’ve learned that getting water out of your kayak is a simple but important part of post-paddle care. By using a bailer, sponge, and drain plug, you can efficiently remove most of the water. Don’t forget to give your kayak a good towel dry and allow it to air out before storing. Following these steps helps prevent mold and keeps your kayak in top condition for future adventures. Your next trip will be even better with a clean, dry boat!

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I drain water from my kayak?

You should drain water from your kayak after every outing. Even a small amount of standing water can lead to mildew if left for extended periods. Making it a habit ensures your kayak stays clean and odor-free.

What’s the best way to dry the inside of a sit-in kayak?

For sit-in kayaks, start by bailing out the bulk water. Then, use a highly absorbent sponge to get the remaining moisture. Finally, wipe down the hull with a soft, dry towel and let it air out with the hatches open.

Can I leave my drain plug open for storage?

It’s generally not recommended to leave your drain plug open during storage. This can allow moisture, insects, or small animals to enter your kayak. It’s best to drain the kayak completely and then close the plug tightly.

My kayak still feels damp after drying, what should I do?

If your kayak feels damp, give it more time to air out in a well-ventilated area. You can also use a dry cloth to get into any small crevices you might have missed. Sometimes, humidity can make drying take longer than expected.

Are scupper plugs necessary if I drain my kayak well?

Scupper plugs are useful for sit-on-top kayaks. While you drain water manually, scupper plugs prevent water from splashing back up into your seat area while you’re paddling. They also help keep your kayak drier when it’s not in use.