How to dry filament? Drying temperatures and times
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Most filaments absorb moisture from the air. In the nozzle the water turns into steam, which spoils print quality and weakens the layers. A spool opened a few weeks ago – or, for nylon, even a few days ago – often needs drying.
Signs of wet filament
- popping and hissing while printing,
- stringing that changing retraction doesn't fix,
- bubbles, holes and a rough, dull surface,
- weak prints that delaminate easily,
- filament that snaps as it unwinds (especially PLA).
Drying temperature and time
| Material | Temperature | Time | Moisture sensitivity |
|---|---|---|---|
| PLA | 45–50°C | 4–6 h | low–medium |
| PETG / PCTG | 60–65°C | 4–6 h | medium |
| ABS | 70–80°C | 4 h | medium |
| ASA | 70–80°C | 4 h | medium |
| TPU | 50–55°C | 4–8 h | high |
| PA (nylon) | 70–80°C | 8–12 h | very high |
| PC | 70–80°C | 6–8 h | high |
| PVA (soluble supports) | 45–55°C | 4–6 h | very high |
Plastic spools can warp above about 60–65°C. For higher temperatures, check the manufacturer's advice or dry for longer at a lower temperature. Cardboard spools handle higher temperatures, but keep them away from heating elements.
What to dry it in
- A filament dryer – the most convenient; some models let you print straight from the dryer.
- A food dehydrator – cheap and effective, often fits 1–2 spools once the trays are removed.
- An oven – it works, but thermostats are inaccurate and overheating can easily melt the filament. Check the temperature with a thermometer and don't leave the spool unattended.
- The printer bed covered with a box – an emergency option for PLA and PETG.
How to store filament
- in an airtight container or zip bag with a desiccant (silica gel),
- ideally below 20% humidity inside the container – a cheap hygrometer shows when to replace the desiccant,
- silica gel with a colour indicator can be regenerated by drying it in the oven,
- nylon, TPU and PVA are best printed straight from a dry box.
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