How to Store PLA Filament: Long-Term Guide

PLA filament, a favorite among users of the Ender 3 and similar 3D printers, presents unique storage challenges that even seasoned makers at Prusa Printers acknowledge. Moisture, an attribute PLA readily absorbs, significantly degrades print quality over time. Understanding how to store PLA filament properly ensures consistent, high-quality prints, extending its usable lifespan. In this guide, we’ll delve into the essential techniques for mastering how to store PLA filament, keeping your materials in top condition regardless of your local climate.

Getting PLA Filament Storage Right: A Deep Dive

Okay, so you’ve got some PLA filament and you want to keep it in tip-top shape for your 3D printing projects. Great! PLA, while relatively easy to work with, is a bit of a drama queen when it comes to moisture. Absorb too much humidity, and you’ll be dealing with brittle filament, stringing prints, and generally frustrating results. This guide is all about understanding how to store PLA filament properly for the long haul, ensuring your filament is ready to go whenever inspiration strikes.

Why Proper Storage Matters: The PLA Moisture Problem

Before we dive into the how, let’s quickly cover the why. PLA (Polylactic Acid) is hygroscopic. That’s just a fancy way of saying it loves to suck up moisture from the air.

• Moisture absorption leads to:
  • Brittle Filament: Filament snaps easily during printing.
  • Stringing: Those annoying little strands of plastic between printed parts.
  • Popping/Hissing: Water turning to steam as the filament is extruded.
  • Weak Prints: Reduced layer adhesion and overall print strength.
  • Clogged Nozzles: Bubbles forming in the nozzle, preventing consistent material flow.

Therefore, effective how to store PLA filament techniques are essential for consistent, high-quality 3D prints.

The Moisture-Fighting Arsenal: Essential Storage Gear

You don’t need a NASA-grade cleanroom, but a few key items will make a world of difference:

1. Airtight Containers: These are your first line of defense. Think resealable bags (like zip-locks specifically designed for filament storage), plastic tubs with tight-fitting lids, or even vacuum-sealed containers.

2. Desiccants: These are moisture magnets! Silica gel packets are the most common, but you can also use desiccant beads, which can be recharged.

3. Humidity Indicator: A simple humidity indicator card or meter lets you know the moisture levels inside your storage container. Knowing the humidity helps you determine when to recharge your desiccant.

4. Vacuum Sealer (Optional but Recommended): For truly long-term storage, a vacuum sealer removes almost all the air (and therefore moisture) from the bag, significantly extending filament lifespan.

5. Dry Box (For Active Printing): A dry box keeps filament dry while it’s actively being used in your 3D printer. This isn’t strictly for storage, but it’s worth mentioning since it fights moisture during printing.

The Step-by-Step Guide: How to Store PLA Filament Properly

Here’s the definitive process for how to store PLA filament, maximizing its lifespan and print quality.

1. Drying the Filament (If Necessary): If your filament has been exposed to humidity for a while, consider drying it before storage. You can use a dedicated filament dryer, a food dehydrator (at a low temperature!), or even your 3D printer’s heated bed (with a cardboard box covering the filament). Aim for the lowest temperature possible to avoid damaging the filament.

2. Selecting the Right Container: Choose an airtight container that is appropriately sized for your filament spool. Too much empty space inside the container can actually increase the risk of moisture buildup.

3. Adding Desiccant: Place several desiccant packets or a generous amount of desiccant beads inside the container with the filament. Ensure the desiccant isn’t directly touching the filament; a small mesh bag can help.

4. Sealing the Container: If using a zip-lock bag, press out as much air as possible before sealing. For plastic tubs, ensure the lid is firmly secured. If using a vacuum sealer, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to create a strong seal.

5. Monitoring Humidity: Regularly check the humidity indicator inside the container. If the humidity levels rise significantly, it’s time to recharge or replace the desiccant.

6. Recharging Desiccant: Most desiccant beads can be recharged by baking them in an oven at a low temperature (refer to the desiccant manufacturer’s instructions). Silica gel packets can also be recharged this way, but it’s often more cost-effective to replace them.

7. Storage Environment: Store the sealed container in a cool, dry, and dark place. Direct sunlight and high temperatures can degrade the PLA over time.

Quick Reference Guide: Storage Methods Compared

Storage Method	Description	Pros	Cons	Best For
Zip-Lock Bag	Resealable bag with desiccant.	Inexpensive, easy to find, reusable.	Less airtight than other methods, requires frequent desiccant replacement.	Short-term storage, frequently used filaments.
Plastic Tub	Airtight plastic container with lid and desiccant.	More airtight than zip-lock bags, protects against physical damage.	Can be bulky, requires space.	Medium-term storage, larger filament collections.
Vacuum Sealer	Vacuum-sealed bag with desiccant.	Excellent moisture protection, long-term storage solution.	Requires a vacuum sealer, bags can be expensive.	Long-term storage, infrequently used filaments, preserving high-quality or specialty filaments.
Dry Box	Enclosure for filament during printing with built-in dryer.	Maintains low humidity during printing, prevents moisture absorption in real-time.	Primarily for active printing, doesn’t replace proper storage between prints.	Active printing, humid environments.

So there you have it! Storing PLA filament long-term doesn’t have to be a headache. With a little planning and the right containers and desiccant, you can keep your filament dry and ready for your next print. Happy printing!