How to Store Tyres Properly Between Seasons

If you switch between summer and winter tyres, storing the set that's not in use correctly is just as important as choosing the right tyres. Poor storage conditions can cause rubber to deteriorate, reduce tyre performance, and shorten their lifespan. By following a few simple steps, UK drivers can keep seasonal tyres in excellent condition and ensure they're ready for the next changeover.

In this guide, we'll explain the best way to store tyres between seasons, common mistakes to avoid, and how proper storage helps protect your investment.

Why Proper Tyre Storage Matters

Tyres are made from rubber compounds that naturally age over time. Exposure to sunlight, moisture, extreme temperatures, and chemicals can speed up this ageing process.

Correct storage helps:

• Extend tyre lifespan
• Maintain rubber flexibility
• Prevent cracking and dry rot
• Protect tread performance
• Save money by reducing premature replacements

Whether you own summer, winter, or spare tyres, storing them properly helps ensure they perform as intended when fitted back onto your vehicle.

Clean Your Tyres Before Storage

Before putting your tyres away, give them a thorough clean.

Remove:

• Dirt
• Mud
• Road salt
• Brake dust
• Small stones trapped in the tread

Wash the tyres with mild soap and water, then allow them to dry completely before storing them.

Avoid using petroleum-based cleaners or tyre shine products, as these can affect the rubber over time.

Inspect Your Tyres First

Storage is also a good opportunity to inspect each tyre for signs of wear or damage.

Check for:

• Uneven tread wear
• Cuts
• Punctures
• Sidewall cracks
• Bulges
• Objects embedded in the tread

Measure the tread depth to ensure the tyres will still be safe and legal to use next season.

The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6 mm, but many drivers choose to replace tyres before reaching this limit for improved wet-weather performance.

Label Each Tyre

If you plan to reuse the tyres, label their original positions before removing them.

For example:

• Front Left (FL)
• Front Right (FR)
• Rear Left (RL)
• Rear Right (RR)

This makes tyre rotation easier when it's time to refit them and helps promote even tread wear.

Choose the Right Storage Location

The environment where you store your tyres has a significant impact on their condition.

The ideal storage area should be:

• Cool
• Dry
• Well ventilated
• Clean
• Out of direct sunlight

Suitable locations include:

• Garage
• Basement
• Storage room
• Garden shed (if dry and insulated)

Avoid storing tyres near:

• Radiators
• Boilers
• Electric motors
• Welding equipment
• Chemicals
• Solvents
• Fuel containers

Heat and ozone-producing equipment can accelerate rubber ageing.

Should You Store Tyres in Bags?

Yes. Using airtight or purpose-made tyre storage bags helps protect tyres from dust, moisture, and UV exposure.

If using plastic bags:

• Remove as much air as possible.
• Seal the bag securely.
• Store in a cool location.

Specialist tyre storage bags with carrying handles are also available and make seasonal tyre changes more convenient.

How to Store Tyres With Wheels

If your tyres are still mounted on alloy or steel wheels, they should be stored differently from loose tyres.

Best methods include:

• Stacking them horizontally.
• Hanging them from purpose-built wall hooks.

Avoid standing mounted wheels upright for long periods, as this may create unnecessary pressure points.

How to Store Tyres Without Wheels

Loose tyres should be stored upright.

Rotate them slightly every few weeks to help prevent flat spots developing over time.

Avoid stacking unmounted tyres on top of one another for extended periods, as this can distort their shape.

Keep Tyres Away from Sunlight

Ultraviolet (UV) rays are one of the biggest causes of premature tyre ageing.

Extended exposure can lead to:

• Rubber hardening
• Surface cracking
• Reduced flexibility
• Shorter tyre life

Always store tyres away from windows or cover them if sunlight cannot be avoided.

Avoid Moisture and Damp Conditions

Moisture encourages corrosion on steel wheels and can contribute to mould in storage areas.

To minimise moisture:

• Store tyres indoors where possible.
• Keep them off damp concrete floors using shelves or wooden pallets.
• Ensure good air circulation.

A dry environment helps preserve both the rubber and the wheels.

How Long Can Tyres Be Stored?

When stored correctly, tyres can remain in excellent condition for several years.

However, before refitting them, always inspect:

• Tread depth
• Sidewalls
• Rubber condition
• Manufacturing date
• Air pressure

Even unused tyres gradually age, so it's important to check they're still suitable for safe road use before reinstalling them.

When Should You Replace Stored Tyres?

Storage won't stop tyres ageing forever.

Consider replacing them if you notice:

• Cracked sidewalls
• Bulges
• Uneven wear
• Flat spots that don't disappear
• Tread below the legal limit
• Significant rubber hardening

If you're unsure whether stored tyres are still roadworthy, seek advice from a tyre professional before fitting them.

Finding Replacement Tyres

If your stored tyres have reached the end of their service life, replacing them before the next season is the safest option.

Retailers like TyreSavings make it easy to search by vehicle registration or tyre size, compare summer, winter, and all-season tyres from leading manufacturers, and book fitting at trusted garages across the UK. This helps ensure your vehicle is equipped with tyres that match both your driving needs and seasonal conditions.

Common Tyre Storage Mistakes

Avoid these common errors:

• Storing dirty tyres
• Leaving tyres in direct sunlight
• Keeping tyres near heat sources
• Ignoring tyre damage before storage
• Storing loose tyres flat for long periods
• Forgetting to label tyre positions
• Leaving tyres exposed to moisture

A little preparation before storage can help maximise tyre life and performance.

Final Thoughts

Proper tyre storage is an important part of tyre maintenance, especially if you switch between summer and winter tyres. Cleaning your tyres, checking for damage, storing them in a cool, dry location, and using the correct storage method can help preserve their condition and extend their lifespan.

When it's time to refit your tyres, inspect them carefully before use. If they show signs of ageing or no longer meet safety requirements, replacing them is the safest choice. TyreSavings offers a wide range of seasonal tyres from trusted brands, making it easy to find the right replacements and arrange fitting at a convenient local garage in the UK.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best place to store tyres?

A cool, dry, clean, and well-ventilated garage or storage room away from direct sunlight and heat sources is ideal.

2. Should tyres be stored standing up or lying down?

Tyres fitted to wheels should be stacked horizontally or hung. Tyres without wheels should be stored upright and rotated occasionally.

3. Can I store tyres outside?

It's not recommended. Exposure to sunlight, rain, and changing temperatures can accelerate tyre ageing and reduce their lifespan.

4. Do I need to clean tyres before storing them?

Yes. Removing dirt, road salt, and brake dust helps protect the rubber during long-term storage.

5. How long can tyres be stored?

When stored correctly, tyres can remain in good condition for several years, but they should always be inspected before being reused.

6. Should I reduce tyre pressure before storing them?

If the tyres remain mounted on wheels, follow your vehicle or tyre manufacturer's recommendations. For long-term storage, avoid leaving them significantly overinflated.

7. Where can I buy replacement seasonal tyres?

If your stored tyres need replacing, you can compare summer, winter, and all-season tyres by vehicle registration or tyre size on TyreSavings and book fitting at a trusted local garage.