A power bank sitting unused for months can lose significant capacity or, in worse cases, become unsafe. Here's how to store one properly between uses.
Short Answer
Store power banks at roughly 40-60% charge, in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and check/top up the charge every 2-3 months if unused for long periods.
Why Storage Charge Level Matters
Lithium-ion batteries degrade fastest when stored at either extreme — fully charged (100%) or fully drained (0%) for extended periods. A mid-range charge level (40-60%) puts the least stress on the battery cells during long-term storage, whether that's a power bank sitting in a drawer or one you're packing for a trip you'll take next month.
Storage Conditions to Avoid
- Direct sunlight or hot rooms: heat is the single biggest accelerant of battery degradation over time
- Fully depleted storage: leaving a power bank at 0% for months can push some cells into a state where they no longer hold charge properly
- Damp or humid storage: moisture exposure risks corrosion on charging ports and internal components
Before You Travel With a Stored Power Bank
If a power bank has been sitting unused for more than a couple of months, charge and discharge it once before your trip to confirm it's still holding capacity properly — don't rely on it for a long journey without testing first.
Signs a Power Bank Has Degraded From Poor Storage
- Noticeably swollen or warped casing (stop using immediately if you see this)
- Charges devices to a much lower percentage than its rated capacity
- Takes unusually long to charge devices, or itself, compared to when new
If your power bank is showing any of these signs, it's time to replace it — see our Xiaomi, Mcdodo, and Baseus power bank collections for genuine replacements.
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