The One Storage Solution You Should Never Use For Electronics

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Storing and protecting your electronics can play an important role in how well they perform. Tech accessories like headphones, computers, tablets, and other digital devices have specific needs, so how you store them when they are not in use matters. They need to be stored in such a way to stay safe and last. However, it's also apparent that you understand what storage items or solutions for your electronics you'll want to avoid at all costs. The one product that you never should use for putting your devices away is a zip-top plastic bag, as it can trap moisture and heat, or cause static electricity, all of which can take a major toll on your electronics.

Electronics are just one of many common items that shouldn't go in clear plastic bags. A primary reason for never storing electronics in a zip-top bag has to do with moisture. Sealing them into a bag can also trap in wetness, and even just a little bit of humidity can affect things in a big way. The moisture that a zip-top bag holds can corrode circuit boards, internal components and connectors. There could be humidity that you're not able to see initially. And when that trapped moisture condenses inside the bag, turning into water droplets, it can cause irreparable damage to your electronics. The airtight baggie doesn't allow any water in, but if there's any in the bag already, it won't allow it out, either.

In addition to the risk of trapping moisture, there are other reasons that zip-top bags are a bad idea for your electronic devices. These items should be stored in areas where static buildup is reduced or eliminated. Electrostatic discharge, known as ESD, is a small static shock. When it occurs, it can disrupt and even destroy equipment parts found in many electronics that include CPUs, RAM chips, and circuit boards. A zip-top bag is not designed for dissipating electricity, so there is no defense against an ESD happening. In fact, the plastic bags can actually accumulate static, especially when multiple devices are placed inside together, which increases the risk to your precious items. There are other clever ways to repurpose those zip top bags in your home.

Another issue with the zip-top bag for electronics is that the bags can trap heat. Temperature swings are a major concern for your devices. Excessive heat can stress equipment, melt parts, and cause irreparable damage to your items. Sealed baggies can create pockets where heat is amplified or where temperatures drop, causing condensation. Batteries are especially vulnerable if they are stored together, since they can short-circuit if they touch. 

If you need to store your electronics, there are much safer options. For starters, you could get some anti-static bags, since they are specifically made for electronics. You could organize them on your kitchen countertop in a breathable wicker basket. You may also consider putting them back in their original packages, or invest in sturdy boxes with padding and moisture control, like this MATEIN Electronics Organizer Travel Case.