Your storm shelter is one of the most important investments you’ll ever make for your home—and keeping it clean is an essential part of making sure it’s ready when you need it most.
With peak storm season approaching here in Oklahoma, now’s the perfect time to check in and give your shelter a little attention. Whether you’ve got an above ground or below ground unit, these simple tips will help you keep your storm shelter clean, functional, and ready for any weather.
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before you start, round up everything you’ll need so you’re not running back and forth. Here’s a quick list of helpful supplies:
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Broom and dustpan
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Mop and bucket
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All-purpose cleaner
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Disinfectant spray or wipes
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Rags or microfiber cloths
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Flashlight (to check corners or poorly lit areas)
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Optional: pest repellent, gloves, scrub brush
2. Remove Debris and Sweep Thoroughly
Start by removing anything that doesn’t belong—leaves, dirt, water bottles, snacks from last season, etc.
Sweep the entire floor, including under any chairs or storage areas. Don’t forget to check the corners, steps, and entryways where dirt loves to hide.
💡 Tip: If you store emergency supplies in your shelter, give them a quick once-over too. Replace anything that’s expired or broken.
3. Mop and Wipe Down the Floor
Once everything is swept, mop the floor using a mild cleaning solution. Avoid soaking the floor—just enough to remove grime and dust is perfect. If your shelter has textured concrete, a scrub brush might come in handy for those stubborn spots.
4. Disinfect Surfaces
Use disinfectant wipes or a diluted disinfectant solution to wipe down:
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Walls and door surfaces
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Handrails or entry handles
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Steps or benches
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Any storage containers or commonly touched items
This is especially important if your shelter has been used recently or shared with neighbors or pets.
5. Check for Pests
Storm shelters are sealed, but they can still be appealing to critters—especially during colder months. Check for signs of rodents, insects, or other pests.
If you see droppings, nests, or chewed items:
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Remove the pests
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Sanitize the area
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Consider adding repellents or sealing small gaps if needed
6. Inspect for Damage
Last but not least, check your storm shelter for any signs of damage:
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Cracks or water intrusion
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Rust on metal parts
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Wear on doors, anchors, or vents
Catching small issues early can prevent bigger (and more expensive) problems later on.
💬 Need a repair? We don’t do service calls for damage, but we’re happy to talk through your options or help you decide if a replacement makes more sense. Contact us here
Keep It Clean. Stay Prepared.
Cleaning your storm shelter doesn’t take long, and it makes a big difference in how safe and usable it feels when the weather turns rough.
We recommend giving it a deep clean at least once or twice a year—especially before storm season kicks off in Oklahoma.
📸 Want to see what real installs look like? Check out our gallery.
📞 Have questions about your current shelter or need help choosing a new one? Reach out to us today.
