What is the best way to store light bulbs of different types?

Bracha Moskoff
by Bracha Moskoff

Odd question but I think it would be helpful to many peopleicon


Please could everyone share tips and tricks for storing light bulbs? From LED to incandescent to fluorescent, what are the best ways for storing each type of bulb? Should you keep the packaging or toss it? What kind of environment should you store them in, and what should you avoid?

Storing light bulbs



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  16 answers
  • Cheryl A Cheryl A on Apr 17, 2023

    I went to the dollar store & bought clear containers (shoe box size or larger) and store them in those containers so I know where they are and store on a closet shelf


  • Janice Janice on Apr 17, 2023

    I store ALL of my lighting materials in the cabinet above my refrigerator as I don't need to access often I keep the bulbs in their original packing so I can readily locate the bulbs I want. I chose this spot because it is the same temperature as my home, so not subjected to extreme heat or cold. I sometimes highlight the labeling with a yellow highlighter or mark where the bulb is used with a permanent Sharpie on the packaging. I also store extra plug-in night lights there!

  • I keep mine in a plastic container and save the packaging.

  • Redcatcec Redcatcec on Apr 17, 2023

    Get a clear plastic box from the dollar store with dividers, put them in there minus the boxes.

  • Dee Dee on Apr 17, 2023

    I keep mine in a Home Depot small moving box with the packaging. I have them stored by Watts.

  • William William on Apr 17, 2023

    Keep them in their original packaging. Cardboard boxes labeled will work. Clear storage containers are good.

  • Deb K Deb K on Apr 17, 2023

    Hi Bracha, hope this helps you out,

    • Clear Plastic Bins
    • You can find plastic storage bins of various sizes and shapes at home improvement stores, big box stores, and even dollar stores. These are a tidy way to store larger light bulbs, as there is ample space to keep many sizes and shapes of light bulbs in one container. Clear boxes also allow you to see what’s in the container without having to open multiple boxes every time you need a fresh light bulb.
    • Bubble Wrap
    • Just like when packing away old glasses or dishes, bubble wrap will protect your light bulbs if you’re storing them in a drawer or on a utility shelf. By keeping them wrapped, light bulbs are less likely to be damaged.
    • Egg Cartons
    • The smaller the light bulb, the more delicate the glass used to make it. Storing these small light bulbs in old egg cartons keeps them protected and makes them easy to find. Another bonus is that it keeps the egg carton out of the landfill. Organization AND helping the environment is a win all the way around.
    • Christmas Ornament Organizer
    • Ornament organizers come in many different sizes with built-in sections to hold various sizes of ornaments, which prevents them from rolling around in the box. These boxes are also perfect for holding extra light bulbs. Ornament boxes are available in the winter at many big box stores, storage solution stores, and hardware stores.


  • Kmdreamer Kmdreamer on Apr 18, 2023

    I use a med size box and keep all light bulbs in it

  • Kathy Gunter Law Kathy Gunter Law on Apr 18, 2023

    I keep the original packaging but you can also store in an ornament case. Mine are in the garage which isn't climate controlled and I've had no issues with them, even the ones that have been out there for years.


  • Hi Bracha! Plastic storage bins are very effective in storing light bulbs, and they come in different shapes and sizes. You can easily find them in dollar stores, big box stores, or home improvement stores. These boxes have a lot of space, and you can store a massive quantity, especially larger light bulbs.

  • Bracha Moskoff Bracha Moskoff on Apr 24, 2023

    Thanks everyone, I think the general consensus is to store light bulbs in a plastic container and keep the original packing, so I guess I am heading to the dollar store😁

  • Frieda Frieda on Apr 24, 2023

    Get you a Christmas bulb holder for ornaments & place the light bulbs in it.

  • Marty Ayers Marty Ayers on Apr 28, 2023

    I keep mine in a large basket in the bottom of a bookcase in my office... in the original packaging if it fits.... a specialty container for Christmas tree ornaments could also work... or the cardboard carrier for beer or soda bottles

  • Mogie Mogie on May 01, 2023

    Sort them by type. (incandescent, halogen, fluorescent, and LED).

  • Honestly, I just toss them all in a bin in my basement. Some still have the packaging and others don't. It may not be the best way but I haven't run into any issues using the bulbs that come out of the bin.