Storing filament

TinyArtist

Storing your filament properly can reduce or eliminate moisture and dust.


To properly store 3D printer filament, keep it in a cool, dry, dark place. Use airtight containers like vacuum-sealed bags or plastic tubs with gaskets, and include desiccant packets (such as silica gel) to absorb moisture. Protect it from dust and contaminants, and store it away from direct sunlight and heat to prevent degradation and warping.

Environmental Controls
Temperature: Store filament in a cool, stable temperature environment, ideally between 15-25°C (59-77°F). High temperatures can cause softening or warping, while very low temperatures can make it brittle.
Humidity: Humidity is the biggest enemy of filament. Aim for low humidity levels, generally below 35-50%.

Light: Keep filament away from direct sunlight and UV light, which can cause color fading and material degradation.

Storage Containers
Airtight Containers: Use airtight containers such as plastic cereal containers, storage tubs with foam seals, or vacuum-sealed bags to prevent moisture and dust from entering.
Ziploc Bags: Gallon-sized Ziploc freezer bags with a resealable top can work as a temporary or simple long-term storage solution. For better results, you can remove most of the air using a vacuum.

Moisture Control
Desiccants: Place desiccant packets (like silica gel) in your storage containers to absorb moisture from the air.
Color-Changing Desiccants: Use color-changing silica gel packets to visually monitor their effectiveness; a color change indicates they are saturated and need to be dried.

Rechargeable Dehumidifiers: For large containers, consider a rechargeable dehumidifier, which you can dry out by plugging it in to remove absorbed moisture.

Vacuum Sealing: Vacuum-sealing bags is an effective way to remove air and extend the life of your desiccant.

Other Considerations
Organization: Labeling your storage boxes with numbers can help you track your filament and keep things organized.

Cleanliness: Handle filament with clean hands to avoid transferring oils and dirt, which can lead to poor print quality and extruder clogs.

TinyArtist

I personally use vacuum sealed bags and put silica packets in them. I buy the bags on rolls as it's more cost effective.