FilamentHub Guide
Filament Drying Guide
Learn how to dry and store 3D printer filament properly to reduce stringing, improve print quality, and get more reliable results from materials like PLA filament, PETG filament, TPU filament, Nylon / PA filament, and more.
Why drying filament matters
Many 3D printing materials absorb moisture from the air over time. When wet filament is printed, that trapped moisture turns to steam in the hotend and can cause a range of print quality issues.
- Popping or crackling sounds while printing
- Stringing and oozing
- Rough or inconsistent surface finish
- Weak layer bonding
- Cloudy, brittle, or poor-quality prints
Properly drying and storing your filament helps improve print consistency, strength, and surface finish.
Signs your filament may be wet
- Audible popping, sizzling, or crackling from the nozzle
- Excessive stringing despite normal print settings
- Inconsistent extrusion or rough lines
- Weak parts or poor layer adhesion
- Surface defects, pitting, or bubbles
- Print quality worsening after the spool has been left open
Real-world example of wet vs dry filament print quality — moisture can significantly impact surface finish, strength, and reliability.
Recommended filament drying settings
These are general starting recommendations only. Always avoid exceeding safe temperatures that may deform the spool or filament.
| Material | Drying Temp | Suggested Time | Moisture Sensitivity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLA | 45–50°C | 4–6 hours | Low to Medium | Usually less sensitive than engineering filaments, but can still benefit from drying in humid conditions. |
| PLA Silk | 45–50°C | 4–6 hours | Medium | Drying can help reduce stringing and improve finish consistency. |
| PLA Matte | 45–50°C | 4–6 hours | Medium | Moisture can affect surface consistency and print quality. |
| PETG | 60–65°C | 4–6 hours | Medium to High | One of the most common materials to show stringing when wet. |
| ABS | 70–80°C | 4–6 hours | Medium | Less sensitive than nylon, but benefits from drying for best results. |
| ASA | 70–80°C | 4–6 hours | Medium | Useful to dry before long outdoor-part prints for more consistent extrusion. |
| TPU / Flexible | 55–70°C | 4–6 hours | High | TPU absorbs moisture quickly and often shows major stringing if not dried. |
| Nylon / PA | 70–80°C | 8–12 hours | Very High | Extremely hygroscopic. Best stored sealed immediately after drying. |
| PC | 80–90°C | 6–8 hours | High | Needs careful drying and storage for best strength and finish. |
| Carbon Fibre / Glass Fibre Filled | Follow base polymer | 4–8 hours | Medium to High | Dry according to the main polymer base such as PETG, Nylon, or PC. |
Looking for filament? Browse our range of PLA filament, PLA Pro filament, PETG filament, TPU filament, ABS filament, ASA filament, and carbon fibre filament.
How to dry filament
- Check the material type and confirm a safe drying temperature.
- Place the spool into a filament dryer, dehydrator, or other controlled drying setup.
- Set the recommended temperature and time.
- Allow the spool to cool slightly before handling.
- Store it in a sealed container or dry box with desiccant after drying.
Storage tips after drying
- Store spools in sealed bags or airtight tubs
- Use fresh desiccant packs
- Keep frequently used materials in a dry box
- Avoid leaving moisture-sensitive filament exposed for long periods
- Redry filament if print quality starts to decline
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to dry PLA?
Not always, but PLA filament can still absorb enough moisture to affect print quality, especially in humid environments or after sitting open for a long time.
Which filaments need drying the most?
TPU, Nylon / PA, PC, and many fibre-filled materials are among the most moisture-sensitive and benefit greatly from proper drying and sealed storage.
Can wet filament cause stringing?
Yes. Moisture is one of the most common causes of excessive stringing, popping, rough extrusion, and inconsistent print surfaces.
How should I store filament after drying?
Store filament in an airtight container or sealed bag with desiccant to help keep moisture out and maintain print quality.
Need the right material for your next print?
Explore the FilamentHub range and choose the best filament for strength, finish, flexibility, and reliability.