Incorrect storage of your electronic components can have catastrophic effects. Apart from damaging the component itself, in some circumstances storage issues can destroy not only the components, but the products they are used in. 

The most common and much discussed issue is static electricity. As everyone in the industry warns ”static electricity can damage electronic devices and your system”. As IBM cautions, static electricity can be caused by any number of things and they recommend the following steps to lessen possible problems.

1. When holding the components limit your movement as that can build static electricity around you.

2. Keep the components in their static-protective bags (and if you have a large amount of components not in bags buy some).

3. Hold components by their edges and frames.

4. Store your components away from access of others.

5. Take the components out of their bags and install right beside the product.

6. Touch the bag with the component inside to an unpainted metal part of the product - this will discharge any static electricity on the bag.

7. Additional care is needed during cold weather as that reduces humidity and that increases build up of static electricity.

Static electricity has been an issue for many industries throughout time, especially explosives, chemicals, pharmaceuticals and agricultural products. But with the creation of electronic components the problems have multiplied.

“The age of electronics brought with it new problems associated with static electricity and electrostatic discharge. And, as electronic devices become faster and the circuitry getting smaller, their sensitivity to ESD in general increases,” the EOS/ESD Association (the association dedicated to electrostatic discharge avoidance) notes.

Other reasons for proper storage include the impact of dirt and dust particles, improper handling issues, the effect of various climate and environmental situations, and general safety. 

Apart from static-electric protective bags, storing your electronic parts in appropriate non-conductive boxes and other storage products is recommended. Learn what is a conductor of electricity and avoid having them near the component and where and in what it is stored.

You should also avoid wrapping them in plastic, as that can trap moisture, another destroyer of the components. Canvas and cotton materials are an acceptable alternative to plastic. Metal boxes can be an issue - plastic is generally preferred.

Some other general tips include making sure the storage place is climate controlled. Also if you are storing multiple components in the same box (seriously try and avoid putting multiple components in the same static-protective bags) make sure you mark what is in what to avoid opening and reclosing parts.

For any moisture-sensitive components add silica gel desiccant packets to whatever you put them in. Another often overlooked procedure is to always use a grounded wrist strap (see above photo) when handling parts - this simple device will save you all sorts of time and worries.

To be safe, I will include advice that you should know. Don’t place anything on top of your stored components.