Filament absorbs moisture from the air — and wet filament prints badly: stringing, popping, weak layers, and rough surfaces. Good storage keeps every spool printing like new.
The basics
- Keep spools sealed in a bag or airtight box with desiccant.
- Store in a cool, dry place — away from humidity.
- Reseal after every print session.
The thirsty ones
Some materials soak up water fast and need extra care: Nylon (PA6), PVA, and PC+. If they've been out a while, dry them before printing.
Signs your filament is wet
Popping or hissing sounds while printing, excessive stringing, and a rougher-than-usual surface are all classic symptoms. A quick dry usually brings it back.