Cool, dry, and separate.

Cool, dry, and separate.

Keep them in a cool, dry place, tightly sealed, and never store different chemicals next to each other.

Heat and moisture make pool chemicals break down—that’s how you end up with a bucket of useless powder or, worse, a fire hazard. A basement shelf away from the water heater or furnace is ideal. The garage works if it’s insulated; if it freezes or bakes, find a better spot.

The real danger is mixing chemical types. Chlorine and acid shouldn’t even be on the same shelf. Keep them in separate bins, lids tight, labels visible. Metal containers are a no-go—they corrode and leak. Plastic tubs with lids are cheap and effective.

One last thing: don’t just toss them in a damp corner. Damp air clumps and ruins tablets faster than you think. If the room smells like a swimming pool, you have a vapor problem. Fix the seal or move them.