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Wrapping Extension Cords & Cord Safety Tips

Brian Gregory

By Brian Gregory
Updated October 12, 2020

Knowing how to wrap extension cords will keep your cords from becoming tangled and allow for easy storage. We’ll show you the shoulder-wrap, braid-wrap and over-under-wrap techniques to keep your extension cords looking neat and tidy while hanging in storage.

How to Wrap an Extension Cord

Wondering how to wrap an extension cord neatly? Try the three techniques to keep your cords easy to store and ready to use.

Technique 1: The Elbow Wrap

A man with a yellow outdoor extension cord wrapped using the elbow technique.

Hold one end of the cord in your hand and begin wrapping the cord around your arm just above the elbow and through the crook of your thumb and forefinger. Leave several inches of the cord loose. Wind the loose end of the cord around the coil of cord and connect the ends together to secure the coil.

Technique 2: The Braid Wrap

A man wrapping a red and black outdoor extension cord using the braid technique.

Double the cord over and tie a loose knot at one end. Working toward the other end, fold the cord underneath the loop in the knot to create a new loop. Continue down the cord until you reach the end.

Technique 3: The Over-Under Wrap

A man coiling a black outdoor extension cord using the over under technique.

Hold your arm out and loop one end of the cord over the top of your hand away from your body. Roll the next loop underneath so it runs across your hand toward your body. Continue wrapping over (away from your body) and under (toward your body) until you reach the end of the cord. Use a tie or cord organizer to keep the loops together.

Tip

If you don’t want to try wrapping extension cords, you can still keep them organized and ready to use with extension cord reels. You can find manual-wind and retractable extension cord reels and even cord storage reels with circuit breakers and multiple built-in outlets.

Use Extension Cords Safely

A man holding a coiled red and black outdoor extension cord.

Exercise caution when using an indoor or an outdoor extension cord. Follow the cord manufacturer’s instructions for use and safety. Here are some tips for using an extension or power cord safely:

  • Don’t use a damaged extension cord. 
  • Unroll or uncoil the extension cord before use to prevent excessive heat buildup when current runs through the cord. 
  • Don’t connect multiple extension cords. 
  • Match your cord to the work environment, whether indoor or outdoor. Outdoor extension cords have durable covers that protect them from weather and damage.
  • Make sure the number of prongs (two or three) fits the outlet you'll be using.
  • Use a cord that meets the amperage requirements of the device you're using. If the device draws more current than your cord can handle, you could start a fire or damage the cord and device. Read the owner’s manual for your device for extension cord requirements such as gauge, amps (amperage) and length.
  • Don’t cover an extension cord with a rug or mat.