Tires stored incorrectly degrade faster than tires in service. The biggest threats to stored tires are ozone exposure, UV light, temperature extremes, and physical distortion from improper stacking. Here is how to store them right.
Clean before storing
Wash the tires with mild soap and water to remove brake dust, road grime, and oils. Let them dry completely before storing — moisture trapped in storage accelerates cracking.
Do not use tire dressing or shine products before storage. Many tire shine products contain petroleum compounds that accelerate ozone degradation over time. Clean rubber stored dry is better than treated rubber sealed with a petroleum product.
Use tire storage bags
Tire bags (large, sealable plastic bags) are the single best storage investment. They limit ozone exposure — which is the main cause of sidewall cracking during storage — and protect against dust, light, and moisture.
Available at auto parts stores and online for $5–15 for a set of four. Worth it for tires you plan to use again.
Before sealing: let as much air out of the bag as possible. You are not trying to vacuum-seal; you are reducing the amount of ozone-laden air in contact with the rubber.
Stacking: mounted vs. unmounted
Unmounted tires (removed from wheels): stack horizontally (laying flat) up to four high, or hang vertically on a tire rack. Horizontal stacking is fine for unmounted tires — the bead does not bear load the same way a mounted tire does.
Mounted tires (on wheels): store vertically (standing up) and rotate them slightly every month if storing for more than a few months. Stacking mounted tires horizontally puts prolonged weight on the top tire's sidewall, potentially causing flat spotting of the bottom tire's contact patch over long storage.
If hanging mounted tires on a wall rack: use proper tire hooks that support the inside of the wheel, not just the sidewall.
Storage location
Cool, dry, and dark: the ideal storage environment. A climate-controlled garage, basement, or closet is better than an attic (too hot) or shed (temperature swings, moisture).
Away from ozone sources: electric motors generate ozone. Keep tires away from water heaters, furnaces, air compressors, and electric workshop equipment.
Out of direct sunlight: UV degrades rubber faster than almost anything else. If the storage area has windows, cover the tires.
Off concrete: bare concrete can wick moisture. A wooden pallet or shelf keeps tires off the floor.
Frequently asked
How long can you store tires?
Properly stored tires (bagged, cool, dry, away from ozone) can remain in good condition for 6–10 years. Improperly stored tires can develop visible cracking within 2–3 years. When removing tires from storage, inspect the sidewalls for cracking and the tread for flat spots before mounting.
Should I deflate tires for storage?
Not for short-term storage (a season). For longer storage, reducing pressure slightly (by 10–15 PSI) reduces stress on the tire structure. Always re-inflate to the recommended pressure when reinstalling.
Can I store tires outside under a tarp?
Better than nothing, but far from ideal. Outside storage exposes tires to temperature extremes, UV light around the tarp edges, and ozone. If you must store outside: use black tarp or bags to block UV, elevate off the ground, and store in a shaded area. Expect faster degradation than indoor storage.
Do I need to store the TPMS sensors with the tires?
If the sensors are installed in the wheels (typical when you have a second set of wheels for seasonal tires), the sensors stay in the wheels. If you have unmounted seasonal tires without sensors: no sensors to worry about. When reinstalling seasonal tires, verify the TPMS sensors are reading correctly and replace the sensor service kits (valve, nut, washer) if it has been more than 3 years.
Last updated 2026-06-27. General guidance only — confirm specifics with a local shop for your exact vehicle.