Batteries are essential to modern life, powering everything from remote controls and flashlights to laptops and smartphones. While they may seem durable and low-maintenance, improper storage can lead to leaks, short circuits, or even fires. A small leak might not seem like a big deal, but battery acid is dangerous and can easily damage your device and create other safety hazards. Proper battery storage ensures safety and helps extend their lifespan, saving you money in the long run. Whether you’re storing everyday household batteries or specialty rechargeable options, knowing the proper techniques will help keep them in top condition. Here, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know about how to store batteries.
7 Tips on How to Store Batteries
Properly storing batteries is one of the best ways to help ensure you and your belongings are safe from problems. While they may seem like small, little devices, batteries can short-circuit, and any leakage can be corrosive and damaging to your belongings. Plus, proper storage will extend the life of your batteries, helping you save money over time. For more information, consider the following tips on how to store batteries.
1. Take Batteries Out of Equipment
Removing the batteries from devices is the best way to prevent leaks or corrosion when you’re not using them for extended periods. Batteries left inside unused electronics can slowly lose charge and, worse, leak chemicals that damage the device. For seasonal items like holiday lights or camping equipment, removing the batteries before storing these items will help ensure they’re ready to use the next time you need them.
2. Store Batteries at Room Temperature
Ideally, you’ll want to store both new and used batteries at room temperature (68–72 °F). Battery storage is also okay at temperatures slightly above or below room—as long as it’s not extremely hot or cold, you should be fine. The ideal temperature range for storage that optimizes your battery life is between 59-77°F. While some people think that keeping batteries in the refrigerator is the best way to store them, the risks typically outweigh the benefits. Instead, keep batteries in a cool, dark place in your home.
You should also do what you can to minimize humidity, as moisture can cause damage to several types of batteries. Alkaline batteries are the one battery with the exception, as they can maintain optimal functioning between 35% and 65% humidity. All other battery types should be kept in a dry place.
3. Store Batteries Away From Direct Light and Heat
Batteries are sensitive to extreme conditions, and direct sunlight or heat can cause them to degrade, leak, or even become dangerous. Store batteries in good condition in a cool, dark area like a drawer, cabinet, or storage box that’s not exposed to sunlight or temperature fluctuations.
4. Keep Unused Batteries in the Original Packaging
The best way to store new batteries is in their original packaging. The packaging protects the batteries from environmental factors like dust and moisture while also preventing them from touching one another or other metal objects. If the original packaging isn’t available, use a battery case or a container made of non-conductive material.
5. Put Loose Batteries in a Storage Box or Bag
If you have loose batteries, don’t toss them into a drawer or bag with other items. Instead, place them in a dedicated storage box or battery organizer that keeps them separated. Batteries stored loosely can come into contact with metal objects or other batteries, which increases the risk of short circuits. For added safety, consider taping the ends (terminals) of your batteries before storage.
6. Separate Old and New Batteries
Another tip is always to store old and new batteries separately to avoid unnecessary drain. If you mix batteries, the older ones can draw energy from the newer ones, reducing their lifespan. For rechargeable batteries, label them with the date of their last charge so you can track usage and avoid confusion.
7. Know the Don’ts of Storing Batteries
While there are plenty of great tips to help you store your batteries, there are also a few things that you’ll want to avoid. To reiterate, some of the recommendations for what not to do include:
Don’t store batteries in high temperatures (either cold or hot), as extreme temperatures may cause batteries to leak or even explode.
Don’t keep batteries in a high-humidity area or an area prone to dampness, as this can lead to corrosion and damage.
Don’t store batteries loose in a drawer or bag, as loose batteries can come into contact with metal objects like keys or coins, causing short circuits and potential fires.
Don’t mix battery types in your storage solutions (e.g., alkaline, lithium, or rechargeable), which can cause leaks or malfunctions.
Don’t store batteries with conductive materials.
Don’t put your batteries in the refrigerator or freezer.
Don’t keep any batteries in a plastic bag.
Don’t put batteries near any flammable materials.
If a battery loses its charge and is not rechargeable, it’s important to properly dispose of it. You can find local information on where to recycle your batteries here.
How to Store Lithium Batteries
Lithium batteries may require a little extra care when it comes to storage. First, like other batteries, ensure they’re kept at room temperature in a dry environment, away from direct sunlight or heat. Because lithium batteries can be sensitive, always check for visible damage before storing them. If the battery casing is punctured or swollen, it’s unsafe and should be properly recycled.
When storing these batteries, aim to keep them at a partial charge—around 40–60%. Storing lithium-ion batteries fully charged can stress the cells over time, while fully drained batteries may not hold a charge when reused. Additionally, keep them separate from other batteries to prevent any unintentional contact.
However, not all lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable, so it’s important to read the manufacturer’s information when you purchase a product. If your lithium batteries are single-use, you’ll need to recycle them properly once they run out. You can typically find a reputable battery recycler in your community through a quick Google search.
How to Store Other Rechargeable Batteries
Although lithium-ion batteries are one of the most common rechargeable options, there are also lead-acid and nickel-based rechargeable batteries that require special care:
Lead-Acid Batteries — These should be stored at a full charge to prevent sulfation—a chemical reaction that reduces capacity and causes permanent power loss. Store them in a cool, dry place and periodically check the charge if storing them for long periods.
Nickel-Based Batteries (e.g., NiMH and NiCd) — Unlike lead-acid batteries, nickel-based batteries should be stored partially discharged. They’re less prone to self-discharge than other types but still benefit from a cool, dry environment.
For all rechargeable batteries, regular maintenance checks and occasional recharges during long-term storage will help extend their lifespan and keep them ready for use when needed.
How to Store Batteries Long-Term
If you need to store batteries for extended periods, the key is to keep them in a controlled environment where temperature, humidity, and safety can be maintained. Long-term storage works best in cool, dry areas like a basement, closet, or storage cabinet. For large collections of batteries or long-term needs, a self-storage unit can be an excellent solution.
When using a self-storage unit, here to keep the temperature stable and prevent humidity. Use proper storage containers, such as original packaging or battery cases, and keep batteries organized by type. For added safety, avoid storing flammable materials near your batteries, and check on them periodically to ensure they remain in good condition. You should also always follow the rules and regulations of your storage facility.
To keep your batteries safe in long-term storage, partner with The Lock Up Self Storage today. Our climate-controlled self-storage units are perfect for sensitive storage and will keep your other belongings in great condition over time. We also offer a variety of self-storage units in varying sizes to ensure all of your belongings fit without having to stack everything from floor to ceiling. To learn more about our self-storage units at The Lock Up, call us today at 1-866-327-LOCK or stop by one of our locations for a tour.
