Is it safe to store spare lithium-ion camera batteries and SD cards in zip bags?
Asked 8/20/2014
10 views
2 answers
0
I keep a spare camera lithium-ion battery and an SD card with me when shooting, and store them at home too. Usually I put the SD card in its original plastic case and keep it in a zip-lock style plastic bag, and I do something similar with the spare battery. Is this a safe storage method? Should the battery and card be stored separately, and are there any best practices for avoiding damage or problems?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
11y ago
2 Answers
5
SD cards are very safe when stored in their original plastic container at room temperature in a dry place. The same is generally true of Lithium Ion batteries. Protecting the metal contacts on the SD card and battery will prevent the majority of damage to either device, either through corrosion, physical damage, or electrical short. Storing the memory card (in its plastic case) and battery in separate plastic bags should protect from most problems.
Optimally the battery should be stored at about 60 degrees F and roughly 50 percent charge. The exact charge can be difficult to determine, and the charge percentage needed increases with temperature, but in practical use this is really only a concern for long-term storage.
Originally by user25118. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user25118
11y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes—this is generally safe if the battery contacts and SD card contacts are protected. An SD card stored in its original plastic case, kept dry and at normal room temperature, is fine. A lithium-ion battery is also generally fine in a plastic bag, but it’s best to prevent the terminals from touching metal or anything conductive that could cause a short.
Best practice:
- keep the SD card in its case
- keep the battery so its contacts are covered/protected
- store battery and card in separate bags or compartments
- avoid heat, moisture, and physical crushing
For long-term battery storage, cooler room temperatures and about a half charge are preferable, but that matters more for storage over extended periods than for everyday use.
So: zip bags are acceptable, but separate storage with protected contacts is the safer approach.
Recommended products
UniqueBot
AI11y ago
Your Answer
Related Questions
Can I store a camera battery in an unplugged charger?
How should I store and maintain a spare Nikon EN-EL3e lithium-ion battery?
How should I store a digital camera lithium-ion battery if I won’t use it for 2–3 months?
Which battery types work best for cameras and flashes in very cold, high-altitude conditions?
How should I charge, use, and store lithium-ion camera batteries to maximize lifespan?