The proper way to store cables

We’ve all experienced it. The crushing dread of pulling out a cable that you need to not only to find that it is a tangled mess but then discover that it no longer works. This can be the nightmare of anyone that works in an industry that relies on wires and cables to help keep equipment working. No matter if you work in audio, video or simply just want cables that you can rely on in order to enjoy media on your devices, having nicely kept cables not only looks great, but can prolong the life of this much needed resource.

One of the big problems with cables is that they can so easily get tangled. Long lengths of wire can be very unwieldy and can be hard to take the time to pack up and secure for future use. Many people who depend on these cords usually do not have the time to devote to standing in one place for long periods of time, wrapping a cord up in their hands. However, the importance of proper cable storage and maintenance should not be underestimated. A properly wrapped cable has the ability to last longer than one that is abused and hastily shoved into a drawer, box or case.

Many people are not aware of techniques that can help them save their cables. If a cable is stored improperly or wound the wrong way, it can fray on the inside and can cause damage, leading to the cable malfunctioning. Luckily, learning the proper way to wind and store a cable is very easy. One of the best ways to get started is to simply make a simple loop with the cord in your hand. Then make a loop around in the opposite direction, creating another circle, and coming out in the same place over the fingers again, but inverted. This will reduce the fraying on the inside of the wire and will help prolong the life of the wire. An added benefit is that the cable will not get tangled and all that is needed to unravel it is just to simply start unwinding. The wire will then unravel straight.

However, in order to keep the wire in this form and in order to store it, first leave enough length at the end of the wire in order to thread it through the circle. Then, continue to wrap it around the outside of the circle and through again to the inside, creating a spiral covering the outside of the circle and keeping all of the parts in place.

Another great way to wind and store a cable is to start like the above example, but instead of creating a spiral at the end, create a circle at the start and then start a spiral until you run out of wire. This also has the added benefit of shortening the cord so that it takes up less room when in use. Both of the above examples are great ways you can use to help prolong the life of your cables and store them in a quick and easy way.