Drying PLA Filament: Why It Matters and How to Do It Right

PLA is widely known for its ease of use, but like all 3D printing filaments, it is hygroscopic. This means it absorbs moisture from the environment, leading to issues such as poor surface quality, reduced strength, and popping noises during extrusion. For makers and professionals alike, drying PLA filament is a necessary maintenance step to ensure consistent, high-quality prints.

In this guide, you'll learn how to recognize when PLA has absorbed moisture, how to dry it safely, and how to store it effectively to avoid recurring problems. We'll also compare PLA to other popular filaments, highlight best practices, and offer tips specific to home and workshop environments.

How Moisture Affects PLA Filament

When PLA absorbs moisture, water molecules begin to break the polymer chains through hydrolysis. This weakens the structural integrity of the material and leads to printing failures. You'll notice the effects in several key areas:

Is PETG Safe to Print Indoors?

PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) has quickly become one of the most commonly used filaments in 3D printing. Its mix of strength, flexibility, and ease of use make it a strong contender in both professional and hobbyist spaces. But a recurring question persists: Is PETG safe to print indoors? This article breaks down the facts, comparing it to other materials, exploring its emissions, and providing safety tips for indoor use.

PETG and Indoor Safety: The Basics

PETG is widely recognized for its low emission profile during printing. Unlike ABS, which emits large amounts of styrene (a known irritant and potential carcinogen), it releases minimal fumes. It does emit some ultrafine particles (UFPs), but in significantly lower quantities than ABS.

It is considered non-toxic, but ventilation is still important. Printing in a well-ventilated area or using an air filtration system is advised. The smell during printing is faint