If you’re a fountain pen enthusiast, you know how crucial it is to take care of your writing instrument. Proper storage is one of the most critical parts of maintaining a fountain pen’s longevity and performance. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to store a fountain pen correctly.

Understanding Fountain Pen Storage Needs

Before diving into the storing process, it’s essential to understand why fountain pens require special storage. Fountain pens have several delicate components like the nib, feed, and ink reservoir. These components require specific cleaning and maintenance procedures to perform optimally. Without proper storage, these parts may get damaged or corroded over time.

Fountain pens are not like regular pens that you can toss in a drawer and forget about. They require special care and attention to keep them in good working condition. A fountain pen is an investment, and like any investment, you want to protect it and make sure it lasts for many years to come.

Importance of Proper Storage

Proper storage will keep your fountain pen in excellent condition and minimize the need for repairs or replacements. It will also ensure that your pen performs seamlessly when you take it out of storage. Proper storage will also protect it from environmental factors like humidity, dust, and light exposure.

Think of your fountain pen as a delicate instrument that requires a specific environment to function correctly. By providing the right storage conditions, you can ensure that your pen remains in pristine condition and performs at its best every time you use it.

Factors Affecting Fountain Pen Storage

Several factors can affect fountain pen storage, including temperature, humidity, dust, and direct sunlight. Uneven or high humidity levels can cause your ink to become thick or even evaporate. Direct sunlight can also fade the pen’s color and cause it to crack. Dust, on the other hand, can get stuck in the pen’s nib and cause clogging.

Temperature is also an important factor to consider when storing your fountain pen. Extreme temperatures can cause the ink to expand or contract, leading to leaks or other issues. It’s best to store your fountain pen in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations.

Humidity is another critical factor to consider. High humidity levels can cause the ink to become too thin, leading to smudging and bleeding. On the other hand, low humidity levels can cause the ink to become too thick, making it difficult to write. It’s best to store your fountain pen in a place with consistent humidity levels.

Finally, dust can be a significant problem for fountain pen storage. Dust can get into the pen’s nib and cause clogging, which can lead to skipping or other issues. It’s best to store your fountain pen in a protective case or sleeve to keep it free of dust and other debris.

Preparing Your Fountain Pen for Storage

Before storing your fountain pen, some essential preparation steps need to be taken to avoid any damage while it’s in storage. These include:

Cleaning the Nib and Feed

The first step is to clean the nib and feed thoroughly. Dip the nib and feed in warm water and let them soak for 15-20 minutes to remove any dried ink residue. Make sure to clean it carefully to avoid damaging the soft metal of the nib.

If you notice any stubborn ink stains, you can use a pen flush solution to clean the nib and feed. Pen flush solutions are specially formulated to remove stubborn ink stains and are safe to use on fountain pens. Simply mix the pen flush solution with warm water and soak the nib and feed for a few minutes before rinsing them with warm water.

Here’s an in-depth post on how to clean your fountain pen.

Emptying the Ink Reservoir

Empty the ink reservoir of your fountain pen before storing it. Use a converter or bulb syringe to clear out any remaining ink in the reservoir. If you’re storing your pen for an extended period, remove the converter as well and clean it in warm water.

It’s important to note that you should never leave ink in your fountain pen for an extended period. Ink can dry out and clog the feed, causing damage to your fountain pen. Always empty the ink reservoir before storing your fountain pen.

Drying the Pen Components

Ensure that all the parts, especially the nib, feed, and reservoir, are completely dry before storing your fountain pen. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to pat them dry. Place the fountain pen on a towel and let it air dry for a few hours before storing it.

It’s important to store your fountain pen in a dry and cool place to prevent any damage caused by humidity or extreme temperatures. You can store your fountain pen in a pen case or a pen pouch to protect it from dust and scratches.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your fountain pen stays in excellent condition even after long periods of storage. Proper maintenance and care are crucial to keeping your fountain pen in top shape and ensuring that it lasts for many years to come.

Choosing the Right Storage Location

Now that your fountain pen is clean and dry, you need to ensure you store it in the right location to maintain its quality. Proper storage can help extend the life of your fountain pen and keep it in top condition for years to come.

Ideal Temperature and Humidity

Fountain pens perform best when stored in moderate temperatures between 50°F and 75°F and 40%-60% humidity. Extreme temperatures or humidity levels can damage the pen components and ink. It’s important to avoid storing your fountain pen in areas that are too hot, too cold, too dry, or too humid.

If you live in an area with extreme temperatures or humidity levels, you may want to consider investing in a temperature and humidity-controlled storage container for your fountain pen.

Protecting from Dust and Sunlight

Avoid storing your fountain pen in direct sunlight or dusty areas. Sunlight can cause the ink to fade and the pen components to deteriorate over time. Dust can clog the pen nib and damage the internal mechanisms.

Choose a cool, dry, and dark area for optimal storage conditions. A pen case or holster can further protect your pen from dust and sunlight. Consider investing in a pen case made from high-quality materials that will protect your pen from scratches and other damage.

Safe Storage Spaces

Be careful where you store your fountain pen. Avoid keeping it in a pocket, bag, or purse where it may get crushed, scratched, or damaged. Store it horizontally on a flat surface or vertically inside a pen holder to keep it safe.

If you frequently travel with your fountain pen, consider investing in a travel case that will protect it from damage while on the go. Look for a case that is compact and easy to carry, but still provides ample protection for your pen.

By following these tips for choosing the right storage location for your fountain pen, you can help ensure that it stays in top condition for years to come. With proper care and maintenance, your fountain pen can be a cherished writing tool that brings joy and inspiration to your life.Storing Fountain Pens in Different Positions

Now that you know the ideal storage environment, you also need to consider how the pen should be positioned while in storage. Here are your options:

Horizontal Storage

Store your fountain pen horizontally if you plan to use it frequently. This prevents the ink from settling and drying on one side of the nib. Ensure the pen has a cap to prevent air from entering the reservoir and drying out the ink.

Vertical Storage

If you aren’t using your fountain pen regularly, store it vertically with the nib facing up. This position ensures the ink doesn’t move around as much while the pen is in storage, which can lead to potential ink flow issues and leakages.

Nib Up or Nib Down?

If you’re storing your fountain pen vertically, you may be wondering which end should face up. The answer is to store it nib up. This positioning prevents ink leakage, drying out of the ink reservoir, and prevents the nib from being forced back inside the pen.

Final Thoughts

To keep your fountain pen in excellent condition, proper storage is a must. Following the above steps will ensure your pen is protected from environmental factors, remains functional, and lasts for years to come. Remember to clean your pen before storage, choose the right storage location, and place it in the correct position. By following these guidelines, you’ll enjoy years of uninterrupted writing pleasure with your favorite fountain pen.

Liz

Hey, I'm Liz. I'm the founder of this thing. Pen-obsessed and a notebook nut, I love writing by hand. So I'm gonna talk about it on a computer.