Storing open acrylic paint tubes without exposing them to air is essential to keep your paints fresh and usable for longer

The water content in acrylic paint evaporates upon air contact, leading to hardening and ruin

Once dried, the paint becomes hard and unusable, leading to waste and extra cost

The good news is there are several simple and effective methods to prevent this

One of the most common and reliable ways is to wrap the opened tube tightly with plastic wrap

Before wrapping, compress the opening with your fingertips to reduce air space inside

Use at least two wraps of plastic to create an airtight seal around the tube’s opening

For extra security, you can use a rubber band to hold the plastic wrap in place

This simple barrier keeps humidity locked in, preserving the paint’s consistency

An alternative method involves placing tubes in a sealed container lined with a moistened towel

Place the wrapped tubes on top of the towel, making sure the caps are sealed and the tubes are not touching the wet surface

The damp towel adds humidity to the enclosed space, which slows down the drying process

Keep the container sealed with a lid or plastic wrap to trap the moisture

This method works especially well if you’re not using your paints for a few days or a week

For extended storage, invest in professional-grade sealed containers made for artists

Many turn to food-grade plastic bins with airtight closures for reliable results

Include a moistened sponge or microfiber cloth to maintain consistent humidity internally

This creates a mini humid environment that preserves the paint’s consistency

If you leave paint on your palette overnight, cover it with the lid and a damp towel

If you leave paint on your palette overnight, cover it with the lid and a damp towel

Use the palette for daily use and store the majority of your paint using the wrap method

Clean the tube’s opening after each session to prevent clogs

Regular cleaning keeps the tube functional and extends its usable life

Never leave your paint tubes near windows, radiators, or freezers

The best storage location is a consistently cool, shaded space

Heat can break down emulsions, while cold can cause pigment settling and texture changes

Integrating air-sealing, http://www.realto.ru/journal/articles/nadyozhnye-sposoby-krepleniya-vagonki-ot-klyajmerov-do-samorezov/ humidity control, and proper storage multiplies your paint’s longevity

Proper storage lets you enjoy fresh, blendable acrylics for countless painting sessions