Guides

How Long Does PLA Filament Last?

The Snapmaker Team

The Snapmaker Team

— 4 min read
A small, detailed 3D printed model of a log cabin with miniature trees, arranged as a diorama on a wooden surface with a backdrop of blue sky and clouds.

You just opened a new spool of PLA. Excited for your next 3D print? But for how long? PLA or Polylactic Acid is derived from the starches of plants, such as corn. Easy to print and eco-friendly. Most people use PLA for hobbies. It can be used to create toys, models, small items in the house, and prototypes. However, it doesn't last for-

Each spool would last months, but others might last years with good care, only to mention some of it. Bringing it all into perspective, in this post, we will talk about the shelf life of PLA, how you can store it, signs that can tell you it's gone bad, and some tips to get it to last longer.

Table of Contents

What Is PLA Filament and Why Does Its Longevity Matter? 

PLA is a thermoplastic made from natural materials. It is easy to print and doesn't warp too much. You will print it between 180°C and 220°C, which makes it really beginner-friendly.

People use PLA for a lot of things. Toys, miniatures, decorations, and prototypes are common. PLA comes in different types, too. Standard PLA works for most prints. High-speed PLA prints faster. Matte PLA gives a smooth, non-shiny finish.

Why does longevity matter? PLA absorbs moisture from the air. When it gets wet, it becomes brittle. It can snap or fail during a print. Layers may not stick. Nozzles may clog.

PLA lasts longer than nylon if kept dry. But in humid conditions, ABS can outlast PLA. Knowing how long PLA lasts saves money. It also prevents frustration.

The Shelf Life of PLA Filament: Unopened vs. Opened 

A close-up, studio shot of multiple spools of Matte PLA filament in various colors.

Unopened PLA lasts 1–2 years. Some say up to 3 years if stored perfectly. Keep it in the original vacuum-sealed bag. Avoid heat and sunlight.

Opened PLA lasts less. Usually 3–6 months. With careful storage, it can last 1–2 years. In rare cases, spools have lasted over 15 years in airtight containers with desiccants like silica gel.

Many things affect lifespan. Filament quality, humidity, and temperature are the biggest ones. Hot or wet conditions can ruin a spool in a few weeks.

Filament State

Average Shelf Life

Factors Influencing

Unopened

1–2 years

Original packaging, low humidity

Opened

3–6 months

Exposure to air, storage method

Properly Stored

1–15+ years

Desiccants, airtight containers

Key Factors Influencing PLA Filament Longevity 

Not all PLA filaments will last long; certainly, a few spools are of good quality for years while others simply degrade. Generally, certain factors decide how long your filament will stay usable. Knowing them helps you store it better and avoid failed prints.

  • Moisture is the main enemy. Water makes PLA brittle. It can snap while feeding it into the printer.
  • Temperature matters too. Keep PLA around 20–25°C. Too hot or too cold speeds up aging.
  • Sunlight can fade colors and weaken the filament. Dust or dirt can clog your printer. Frequent printing exposes more filament to air.
  • Even small things matter. A hot, damp garage can ruin a spool in weeks. A cool, dry closet can keep it safe for years.

Signs Your PLA Filament Has Gone Bad 

PLA does not last forever. Sometimes you can tell it has gone bad even before printing. Knowing the warning signs helps you avoid failed prints and wasted material.

  • PLA does not last forever. You can notice it before printing.
  • Physical signs: filament snaps easily. It may bend but break. Some spools even smell funny.
  • During printing, you may hear popping or cracking. Layers may not stick. Stringing can happen. Nozzles may clog.
  • Visual signs include faded colors or powder on the surface. Test a small piece by feeding it through the printer. If it doesn’t flow smoothly, it’s probably bad.

How to Store PLA Filament to Maximize Its Lifespan 

  • Good storage can save a lot of headaches. Use airtight containers or vacuum bags with silica gel. Keep PLA in cool, dark places. Avoid humid garages or basements.
  • Dry boxes work well if you print often. Label spools with the date opened. 
  • Use older spools first. Tape alone is not enough.

Storage Method

Pros

Cons

Ziplock Bags

Cheap, easy

Not fully airtight

Dry Boxes

Humidity control

More expensive

Vacuum Sealed

Long-term protection

Requires equipment

Usage Duration: How Far Does a 1kg Spool of PLA Go? 

It depends on your prints. A 1kg spool has about 335 meters of filament. Hobbyists may use it for 14–25 weeks, around 4–6 months. Heavy users can finish it in days.

Print size, infill, supports, and printer efficiency affect usage. Small prints use little filament. Big, detailed prints use a lot.

If you know your printing habits, you can buy the right amount. This helps keep filament fresh and reduces waste.

Extra Tips to Extend the Life of Your PLA Filament 

  • Buy smaller spools if you print rarely.
  • Use a humidity monitor near your filament.
  • Recycle or reuse old filament for tests or small prints. 
  • Store spools cool and dry and use airtight containers. Even small steps help.

Conclusion 

PLA filament expiration is around 1–2 years if unopened. Opened spools last 3–6 months on average. Proper storage is key. Keep filaments cool, dry, and out of sunlight. Label spools and rotate them to use older ones first.

Join communities like the Snapmaker Facebook group to share tips. Explore Snapmaker for high-quality PLA filament and more 3D printing advice. With a little care, every spool can last months or years and give great prints.

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