How to Store Winter Tyres Safely: Tips for Longer Tyre Life

Storing your winter tyres properly is more important than you might think. Incorrect storage can lead to cracking, warping, flat spots, and premature wear, which could cost you a full set of replacements. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps for storing your winter tyres the right way, so you can get the most out of them when next winter rolls around. 

 

Why Do Winter Tyres Need to Be Stored Differently? 

Winter tyres are made of a softer rubber compound that’s designed to perform best in colder temperatures. When left in warm, humid, or poorly ventilated spaces, the rubber can degrade faster. Storing them in a clean, cool, and dry environment helps preserve the compound and prevent damage from environmental factors such as UV light or ozone exposure. 

 

The Cost of Poor Tyre Storage 

Storing your winter tyres incorrectly can significantly reduce their performance, lifespan, and safety. Exposure to direct sunlight, heat sources, or damp conditions can cause the rubber to degrade, leading to premature cracking or hardening.  

Stacking tyres without support can result in flat spots or sidewall damage, making them unsafe to drive on. If tyres are stored while still dirty or moist, this can encourage corrosion on the rims and deterioration of the rubber compounds.  

Ultimately, poor storage can leave you facing the cost of a full replacement set, which could run into hundreds of pounds, well before your tyres have reached their intended lifespan. A little preparation now can save you time, money, and hassle when winter comes round again. 

 

How to Store Winter Tyres Properly (Step by step) 

 

1. Clean Your Tyres Thoroughly 

Before putting your tyres into storage, give them a good clean using water and a mild detergent. Make sure you remove all road salt, brake dust, and grime from the surface and tread grooves. Once clean, allow them to dry completely to avoid moisture build-up, which can cause rubber degradation or corrosion on the wheels. 

2. Inspect Them for Damage and Wear 

Check each tyre for signs of wear, cracks, bulges, or punctures. This is a good opportunity to decide whether the tyres are in good enough condition to store and reuse next season. Tread depth must be at least 1.6mm across the central 75% of the tyre’s width and ideally should be 3mm or more. 

3. Remove or Keep the Wheels On? 

If you're storing tyres with the wheels still mounted, this affects how you should position them: 

• With wheels: Store them horizontally (stacked flat) and rotate the stack occasionally. 

• Without wheels: Store them vertically and rotate them every few weeks to avoid flat spots 

4. Pack Them Properly 

Wrap each tyre in a plastic bag or specialised tyre storage bag. If using plastic, try to vacuum out as much air as possible before sealing. This helps reduce the exposure to oxygen and ozone, which can dry out and crack the rubber. 

5. Choose the Right Storage Location 

Store your tyres in a location that is: 

• Cool and dry 

• Away from direct sunlight 

• Away from electric motors or heat sources 

• Free from petroleum-based products and chemicals 

• Off the ground (use pallets, shelves or cardboard) 

Avoid storing tyres in sheds or garages that get very hot or damp during summer. 

 

Can You Hang Tyres? 

Only tyres with wheels should be hung on hooks. Hanging bare tyres can cause them to deform over time. If you do hang tyres with rims, use wide hooks that distribute the weight evenly across the wheel. 

 

How Long Can You Store Winter Tyres? 

If stored correctly, winter tyres can last up to six years in storage. However, it's still important to check the tread depth and overall condition each season. Tyres older than ten years (from the date of manufacture) should generally be replaced, even if they appear to be in good condition. 

 

For Expert Tyre Advice, Trust Merityre 

At Merityre, we don’t just fit tyres, we help you take care of them too. Whether you need to rotate, replace, or store your seasonal tyres, our friendly team is here to help. 

Explore our seasonal tyre range or head to our buy tyres page to find the right fit for your vehicle. 

With trusted service across our fitting centres and a huge selection of top brands, Merityre makes it easy to stay safe and road-ready - all year round. 

 

FAQs 

How can I tell how old my tyres are? 
Check the DOT code on the tyre sidewall. The last four digits indicate the week and year of manufacture. For example, “2219” means the tyre was made in the 22nd week of 2019. 

Can I store winter tyres outside? 
Storing winter tyres outside is not recommended. Outdoor environments expose tyres to fluctuating temperatures, moisture, and sunlight, which can all speed up deterioration. 

Can I store winter tyres in the loft? 
Yes, as long as the loft is dry, cool, and doesn’t experience extreme heat during summer. Wrap the tyres and store them vertically if possible. 

Should I deflate tyres before storing? 
If the tyres are off the vehicle, there's no need to deflate them. If they remain mounted, keep them inflated to the recommended tyre pressure to avoid sidewall damage. 

Is it okay to stack tyres on top of each other? 
Only if they have rims. Tyres without rims should be stored vertically to prevent shape distortion.