I store the six extra table leaves and the table pads under my bed. I think that as long as they aren't leaning at an angle, and are stored either flat on the floor, or standing completely on end, there shouldn't be a problem. Seems if they were leaning at an angle they might tend to bow a bit over time.

My table pads came with the express instructions that they must be stored flat.

The leaves are under the bed, but we've stored the pads for over30 years standing on end in the front closet....no problem with warping but they are getting worn looking after all these years.

I never thought about it! I store them standing up in the closet, so does Mom, and all seem fine? Maybe it depends on how much humidity you have, and the construction of the pads?

My vintage table came to me with an upright wooden frame that I've always assumed was part of the original set. Divided sections that hold each of 4 leaves and the pads too (all on end). The table was my BILs mothers, he remembers the frame in their pantry when growing up (he's 60 ;). I have room for it in a walk-in linen closet, although that puts it closer to bedrooms than the dining room.

I recently bought table pad extenders and was told they need to be stored flat. My mother's from 50 years ago are fine being stored standing up, but nothing is made the same today.

It must be the construction of newer pads. Mine have been standing on end in the pantry for years, no box or special stand.

Thank you everyone, for your input! I actually called the table pad company today to ask how the pads should be stored. They said definitely lying down. I did mention that some of my "friends" have stored them for years standing in a closet with no problem. The response was "different materials are now being used." By the way...Joyce 6333 you must a big beautiful table with six leaves!!! I only have two.