As a 3D printing beginner, you're probably focused on your printer, slicer settings, and getting those perfect first layers. But there's one critical factor that often gets overlooked: filament storage.

Improperly stored filament can absorb moisture from the air, leading to poor print quality, clogs, stringing, weak parts, or even total print failure. In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about storing and protecting your filament to ensure smoother, cleaner, and stronger prints.

Why Is Filament Storage Important?

Most 3D printing filaments—especially PLA, PETG, TPU, and Nylon—are hygroscopic, meaning they absorb moisture from the environment. Even if they don’t feel wet, moisture trapped inside the filament can:

Cause bubbles or popping sounds during printing

Create stringing or oozing

Lead to weak layer adhesion

Result in inconsistent extrusion

Cause clogs in your nozzle

The good news? These issues are totally preventable with proper storage.

Best Practices for Storing 3D Printer Filament

Here are easy tips to keep your filament safe and dry, whether it’s brand new or already opened:

1. Keep Filament in Airtight Containers

After opening a spool, always store it in an airtight space.

What works well:

Ziplock or vacuum-sealed bags with desiccant

Airtight plastic bins (with a rubber seal)

Storage boxes designed for filament (some include humidity gauges)

Bonus tip: Use labels to keep track of filament type, color, and open date.

2. Use Desiccants to Absorb Moisture

Desiccant packs (silica gel) help absorb humidity in enclosed spaces. They're cheap and reusable!

Tips:

Add 1–2 packs per spool in your storage container

“Recharge” silica gel by drying it in the oven at 70–90°C (160–200°F) for a few hours

3. Avoid Direct Sunlight and Heat

Sunlight can degrade filament and cause it to become brittle. Keep spools in a cool, dry, and dark place, away from windows, radiators, or heat sources.

4. Use a Filament Dryer if Needed

If your filament has already absorbed moisture, don’t toss it! A filament dryer can remove that moisture and revive the spool.

Options:

Commercial filament dryers (e.g., eSUN, Creality Dry Box)

DIY method: use a food dehydrator or oven at low temperatures

Drying temperatures (approx.):

PLA: 40–45°C

PETG: 55°C

Nylon: 70–80°C (needs more care)

5. Print Directly from a Dry Box

Some filament dry boxes are designed to let you print without removing the spool. This is great for long prints and filament types like TPU or Nylon, which absorb moisture fast.

Signs Your Filament Has Absorbed Moisture

Not sure if your filament is dry? Watch out for these signs:

Bubbling, hissing, or popping sounds during extrusion

Brittle filament that snaps easily

Stringy, rough, or fuzzy print surfaces

Weak print layers and poor bed adhesion

Inconsistent extrusion or under-extrusion

If you notice these, it’s time to dry and store your filament properly.

How Long Can You Store Filament?

With proper storage, filament can last years without degrading. PLA is relatively stable, but filaments like Nylon, TPU, and PVA are much more sensitive and should always be kept dry, even between short printing sessions.

Final Tips for Beginners

Start good storage habits early — even with PLA

Store spools you’re not using in bags or bins with silica gel

Don’t leave filament on the printer for long periods (unless it’s dry)

Consider investing in a filament dryer if you live in a humid area

By protecting your filament from moisture and damage, you’ll get cleaner prints, fewer failures, and a better printing experience overall.

Keep it dry — and keep on printing!

How to maintain your 3D printer