3D Printing Guide

Filament Dryers: Do You Really Need a Filament Dryer for Your 3D Prints?

Scott Gabdullin

Updated on February 13, 2025

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If you’ve been 3D printing for a while, you’ve probably run into the dreaded signs of moisture-contaminated filament, such as stringing, popping sounds while printing, rough surface finishes, or weak layer adhesion. It’s frustrating when your print quality suddenly drops, and you’re left wondering what went wrong. That’s where filament dryers come into play.

But do you really need one, or is it just another accessory being pushed onto the 3D printing community?

Is a Filament Dryer Really Necessary?

The short answer is yes, but the more correct answer is that it depends. More specifically, it depends on your setup, environment, and the materials you’re using. PLA, PETG, and especially nylon are hygroscopic, meaning they absorb moisture from the air. If you live in a humid climate, your filaments could be sucking up moisture even when stored properly.

From our experience, we learned this the hard way when a seemingly perfect PLA print started showing excessive stringing and under-extrusion. At first, we blamed our printer settings, nozzle, and even our slicer profile. But after running the filament through a dryer, the difference was night and day. It produced smoother layers, less stringing, and overall better results. If you’re serious about getting consistent print quality, a filament dryer is more than just a convenience. It’s a game-changer.

What Is The Best Way To Dry Filaments?

The best way to dry filaments depends on several factors, including the type of filament, the environment, and how long it has been exposed to moisture. Some people might never need to dry their filaments, while others, especially those in humid areas, will find it necessary to dry them regularly.

Honestly, there’s no universal solution, but a few proven methods exist, ranging from purpose-built filament dryers to DIY techniques.

Filament Dryers

Ideally, a purpose-built filament dryer is the easiest and most reliable way to dry filament. These devices provide controlled heat and, in some cases, active airflow to pull out moisture, making sure that your material stays in shape.

We’ve all had those moments where a print goes sideways only to realize later that the filament has absorbed moisture. After switching to a filament dryer, we immediately saw fewer failures and cleaner prints, especially when working with nylon and PETG. A filament dryer is a must-have if you’re printing regularly and want more consistency in your results.

Food Dehydrators

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to dry filament, a food dehydrator can actually do the job pretty well, provided it has a temperature control feature.

We’ve tried this method ourselves, and while it’s not as precise as a dedicated filament dryer, it can still make a big difference. Just be mindful of the temperature settings; if it gets too hot and crosses the filament’s glass transition temperature, you might end up with a warped spool instead of a dry one. This method works best for PLA and PETG, but for more sensitive filaments like nylon, you might want to look at a more controlled drying solution.

Ovens

Using a home oven to dry filament is one of those methods that can work, but it’s a bit of a gamble. Most household ovens don’t have precise temperature control, and if the temperature fluctuates too much, you could end up softening or even melting your filament. We’ve tried this method in a pinch, setting the oven to the lowest possible temperature and keeping a close eye on it. Sometimes, it works fine, but other times, the inconsistency makes it a risky choice.

If you go this route, use an external thermometer to check accuracy. Avoid placing filament directly on a metal surface, and use a heat-resistant container instead. If you find yourself drying filament often, investing in a dedicated filament dryer will save you a lot of headaches in the long run.

Desiccant Storage

Using silica gel packs and vacuum-sealed containers is a great way to keep your filament dry once it’s already in good condition, but they won’t do much if your filament has already absorbed moisture.

We’ve learned that while throwing in a few silica gel packs can help prolong the life of stored filament, it’s not a fix for prints that are already turning out stringy or weak. If you live in a humid area or don’t have a filament dryer, this is still a solid preventive measure. Just remember, if your filament has been sitting out for too long, you’ll need a more active drying solution before storage really makes a difference.

If you’re looking for a step-by-step guide to drying filament, check out our other article, How to Dry Filament.

3D Printer Dryer Recommendations

If you decide to get a filament dryer, always make sure to get one that suits your printing needs because here’s the tricky part: not all dryers are built the same, and what works for one filament type may not be ideal for another.

We’ve tested a few and found that some dryers offer better temperature control, while others are more budget-friendly but still get the job done. Choosing the right one depends on how often you print, the types of materials you use, and the level of precision you expect in your prints. Here are some solid options that we recommend based on experience and community feedback:

Best Dryer for PLA Filament: eSUN eBOX Lite

Pros	Cons
Affordable and compact Keeps filament warm while printing Low noise	Limited temperature control Not ideal for nylon

When it comes to PLA, moisture isn’t as big of a concern as it is with nylon or PETG, but keeping your filament dry still makes a difference. We’ve personally tested the eSUN eBOX Lite, and while it’s a budget-friendly option, it does a great job maintaining consistent print quality.

One thing we love about the eBOX Lite is how it doesn’t just double as filament storage, but it actively keeps it warm while feeding it into the printer, preventing moisture from creeping back in mid-print. This has helped us reduce issues like stringing and inconsistent extrusion, which can happen if PLA absorbs even a little moisture.

However, the eBOX Lite isn’t perfect. It doesn’t offer precise temperature control, so if you need to dry highly hygroscopic filaments like nylon, you might need something with better heat regulation. But for PLA users looking for an easy, affordable way to maintain print quality, this dryer is a solid investment.

Sunlu FilaDryer S2

Pros	Cons
Precise temperature control Works with multiple filament types Compact design	Slightly more expensive Takes longer to fully dry filament spools

If you print with PETG, ABS, or nylon frequently, you’ll need something with more advanced temperature control than the eBOX Lite. That’s where the Sunlu FilaDryer S2 comes in. It’s one of the most reviewed filament dryers in the 3D printing community, and for good reason.

We’ve used this dryer for a range of filaments, and it does an excellent job of keeping them dry and ready to print. Many users, including us, have noticed significant results in print consistency and fewer adhesion issues when using this dryer, making it a popular choice for those working with moisture-sensitive materials.

One of the biggest advantages of the Sunlu dryer is its precise temperature control. Unlike budget dryers that offer limited heat adjustment, this model allows you to dial in the right temperature for each filament type.

Another plus is its compact design. It doesn’t take up much space, making it a great option for those with limited room. That said, the internal space is a bit tight, so if you’re using larger spools, you might run into some difficulties fitting them in.

However, its main downside is the price tag. It’s pricier than basic models, which might make it a tough buy for those on a tight budget. Additionally, it takes longer to fully dry filament, especially if you’re dealing with particularly moisture-heavy spools. While the drying process is effective, it requires patience, particularly for materials like nylon that need extended drying times to perform at their best.

PrintDry Filament Dryer Pro 3

Pros	Cons
Excellent heat regulation Ideal for sensitive filaments	Slightly more expensive Larger footprint

If you’re printing with highly hygroscopic filaments like nylon, polycarbonate, or PVA, the PrintDry Filament Dryer is one of the best high-end solutions available. This dryer offers superior heat regulation, ensuring that moisture is effectively removed without overheating or degrading the filament.

We’ve tested this dryer on multiple materials, and the results are noticeable. Prints come out stronger, with better layer adhesion and minimal stringing. The biggest advantage is that it allows for precise temperature settings, making it ideal for those who print with specialty filaments that require a carefully controlled drying process.

But then, the PrintDry Filament Dryer does come with some trade-offs. It’s one of the pricier options, and it has a larger footprint, meaning it might not be ideal if you’re working with limited space. But if you’re working with sensitive materials and want absolute control over moisture removal, this dryer is well worth the investment.

Polymaker PolyDryer

Pros	Cons
High-quality build Excellent temperature control Quiet operation	More expensive

If you’re after precision and reliability in your 3D prints, the Polymaker PolyDryer is a fantastic choice. We’ve used this dryer ourselves, and it’s been a game-changer for keeping our filaments in top condition. If you’re printing with high-performance materials like prusa spools, nylon, polycarbonate, or PEEK, this dryer removes minimal moisture-related defects, which is critical for maintaining strong, high-quality prints.

One thing we particularly love about the Polymaker PolyDryer is its whisper-quiet operation. Unlike some dryers that have a noticeable hum, this one barely makes a sound, making it a great option if you’re working in a home or office setting. We also noticed how well it preserves filament over time. After leaving a spool of nylon in it for a few days, the prints came out just as sharp and durable as they did on day one.

On the downside, the Polymaker PolyDryer is pricier than some budget options, so if you’re just starting out, it might feel like a steep investment.

Creality Dry Box

Pros	Cons
Affordable and compact Easy to use	Customers dislike the humidity sensor A bit loud

For those looking for a simple and affordable way to dry their filament, the Creality Dry Box is worth considering. We’ve used this dryer in our own setup, and while it’s not the most high-tech solution out there, it does a solid job of keeping PLA dry and ready to print. It’s a great entry-level option, especially if you don’t need precise heat control but still want to prevent moisture-related print issues.

One thing we really appreciate about the Creality Dry Box is its compact and easy-to-use design. It doesn’t take up much space, and setup is practically effortless

But it’s not without its drawbacks. One of the biggest complaints from users is that the humidity sensor isn’t always reliable, making it tough to get precise readings. We’ve experienced this ourselves when trying to gauge filament dryness, and it can be frustrating when you’re relying on accurate numbers to get quality prints.

Another issue is that this dryer can be a bit loud. If you’re running it in a shared space or a quiet office, the noise might be distracting. While it’s not that unbearable, but it is definitely noticeable when compared to some of the quieter models out there. Although, these aren’t deal-breakers, but they’re worth considering if you’re sensitive to noise or rely heavily on precise humidity readings.

Maximize Print Quality With Filament Dryers

If you’ve ever had a print that looked great in the slicer but turned out stringy, brittle, or just plain weak, moisture might be the problem. Keeping your filament moisture-free makes a huge difference in print quality and reliability. If 3D printing is a big part of your workflow, a filament dryer isn’t just a convenience, but it’s a tool that produces consistency and high-quality results every time.
Looking for more ways to perfect your prints? Check out 3DGearZone for in-depth guides, practical tips, and expert recommendations to help you refine your setup and bring your ideas to life with precision.

Scott Gabdullin

Scott Gabdullin is a Canadian entrepreneur, investor, and marketing expert who has successfully combined his passion for technology and innovation with a love for adventure and exploration. Scott brings 12 years of digital marketing experience and a hardcore work ethic to his new passion for 3D printing. If he is not working on this business, he is likely travelling and Overlanding across North America with his wife and 2-year-old son in their Jeep Rubicon.