Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/

Once someone gets their first 3D printer, it's not long before they start wanting to experiment with different filament colors and types.

Very soon, there are reels of filament everywhere.

Now, you might have noticed that when you buy a reel of 3D filament, it comes in a vacuum-sealed bag, and there's even a little bag of desiccant inside. The idea is that this keeps the filament dry because the filament material can absorb moisture from the air, which in turn results in poor-quality prints.

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If you're serious about 3D printing, you need a way to keep filament that's not being used in a low-humidity environment, too. And the easiest, most cost-effective way is by using thissealing kit from eSun . 

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eSun Vacuum Storage Kit Pro

An affordable tool that keeps your 3D printer filament in pristine condition.

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What's in the box

• 10 x vacuum bags
• 1 x USB powered pump
• 2 x sealing clips
• 15 x desiccant bags
• 10 x spare valve stickers

Note that there isa less expensive kit that comes with a hand pump, but for the extra$3 or so, I suggest getting the USB-powered pump because it's quicker and much more convenient.

If you've ever dabbled with sous vide, then the process of bagging a reel of filament -- the bags are compatible with 0.5KG/0.75KG/1KG filament reels -- will be familiar to you.

How to vacuum seal unused filament

1. Bag the filament

First, you get a bag and put a reel inside with a desiccant pack. The desiccant pack prevents moisture from building up inside the bag, which would otherwise lessen the quality of the filament.

Also: You should save those silica gel packets included in purchases. Here's why

The filament reel goes inside the bag, along with a packet of desiccant

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2. Seal the bag securely

Next, make sure the bag is tightly sealed. The eSun package includes a sealing clip to help you keep the filament well-stored. 

The included sealing clip in action.

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3. Power the USB and start the vacuuming!

The USB vacuum pump can be powered by a power bank or main charger. 

Apply the pump to the air valve, press the button on the end of the pump, and let the air be sucked out. It takes about a minute (but looks more impressive when sped up in the image below!).

Also: How to get into 3D printing without breaking (too many) things

Suck the air out of the bag!

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4. Store the bagged filament safely

Once the bag is sealed completely, store it in a cool area and away from sunlight. The last thing you'd want is a melted reel of plastic!

Filament safely bagged!

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See also

This$30 gadget claims to add years to your phone's lifespan. Here's howThis is the USB flash drive James Bond would useHow to strip wires like a pro (and my must-have tools)Stop! Your Apple charger may be a counterfeit, and this tiny gadget can tellThis$10 gadget is my favorite repair tool of all time

• This$30 gadget claims to add years to your phone's lifespan. Here's how
• This is the USB flash drive James Bond would use
• How to strip wires like a pro (and my must-have tools)
• Stop! Your Apple charger may be a counterfeit, and this tiny gadget can tell
• This$10 gadget is my favorite repair tool of all time