Use the over-under technique.

Yeah, that’s the answer. The over-under method—where you alternate the direction of each loop—prevents twists from building up, which is what causes kinks and internal wire damage over time.

Most people just wrap a cord around their elbow or arm, which introduces a twist every loop. Multiply that by 50+ loops for a 100-foot cord, and you’ve got a tangled, twisted mess that stresses the copper inside. The over-under method cancels those twists as you go. It takes a bit of practice but keeps the cord flat and tangle-free.

If you’re storing it on a reel or hook, make sure the loops are loose—never tight. Tight loops pinch the insulation and can break the wires. And don’t hang it by one loop on a nail; that creates a sharp bend at the hook point.

The over-under trick works for any long cord (50ft+). It’s worth learning. Your extension cord will last years instead of months.