The filament drying temperature chart shows the correct drying temperature, duration, signs of moisture damage, and storage recommendations for PLA, PETG, ABS, Nylon, TPU, PC, PVA, and ASA.
Why Drying Filament Matters
Most 3D printing filaments are hygroscopic — they absorb water from the air. When wet filament is printed, the moisture turns to steam at the hot end. This causes bubbling, crackling sounds, rough surface textures, poor layer adhesion, and in severe cases, complete print failure.
Dryer options
A food dehydrator is the most common DIY filament dryer — set to the appropriate temperature and let it run. Dedicated filament dryers (Sunlu, Polymaker PolyDryer, Sovol) are convenient and often have humidity readouts. A kitchen oven works if it can hold low temperatures accurately (many cannot maintain 50°C reliably). Never microwave filament.
Drybox printing
For highly hygroscopic materials like Nylon and PVA, printing directly from a drybox (sealed container with desiccant and a PTFE tube to the printer) is better than drying and then exposing to air during a long print.
FAQ
What temperature should I dry PLA filament?
PLA should be dried at 45-55°C (113-131°F) for 4-8 hours. Do not exceed 60°C or the PLA may deform on the spool. A food dehydrator works well for PLA.
How do I know if my filament has moisture?
Signs of wet filament: popping or hissing during printing, rough or bumpy surface texture, excessive stringing, bubbles in extruded material, weak parts, and inconsistent extrusion. Nylon and PETG show these signs most dramatically.
Do I need to dry PLA filament?
PLA absorbs moisture slowly but benefits from drying if stored improperly for months. If your PLA has been in an open spool for weeks in a humid environment, a 4-6 hour dry will improve print quality. New or properly stored PLA typically prints fine without drying.
What is the best filament dryer?
Dedicated filament dryers (Sunlu S1/S4, PolyDryer Box, Sovol) are convenient and purpose-built. A food dehydrator works well for most filaments. A kitchen oven can work but many ovens cannot maintain accurate low temperatures.
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