Proper magnet storage means keeping magnets dry, cool, away from metal shelving, and separated from other magnets to prevent chipping, corrosion, or loss of magnetic strength. The right storage method depends on the type of magnet; ceramic, neodymium, and samarium cobalt magnets each have different vulnerabilities. This guide breaks down best practices for each, including tips on storing neodymium magnets specifically, since they're the most common (and most sensitive) type used in industrial and commercial settings.

General Magnet Safety Precautions

Before getting into storage tips by magnet type, keep these basic safety precautions in mind for any magnet:

  • Wear protective gear, such as safety glasses and gloves, to protect yourself from physical injury
  • Keep magnets away from explosive gases, extreme temperatures, radioactive materials, saltwater, and health devices
  • Avoid storing magnets on metal shelving; it can cause them to jump or shift, damaging the magnet and potentially causing injury

Beyond these general rules, each type of magnet needs a slightly different storage approach. 

Magnet Storage Tips By Type

Ceramic Magnets

Ceramic magnets are prone to chipping, so they should not be stored in cold or high-humidity environments. If chipping occurs, small magnetic pieces may "jump" toward each other and become hazardous.

Like other types of magnets, ceramic magnets can accumulate magnetic debris on their surfaces. To avoid this, store them in closed, clean containers, then wrap them in foam or cardboard to prevent them from being attracted to nearby magnets. If the ceramic magnet is large or has a strong pull force, wrap it individually and consider using a “keeper” (a piece of metal that sits against the magnet) to help it maintain its properties during long-term storage. If you're storing multiple, smaller ceramic magnets, alternate the poles (meaning their north poles face opposite directions) to prevent them from repelling each other.

Rare Earth Magnets

How To Store Neodymium Magnets

If you've worked with neodymium magnets before, you know how strong they are. But they're also brittle and prone to chipping — they can peel, crack, or shatter if slammed together, sending pieces flying at high speed or sparking.

To store neodymium magnets safely:

  • Alternate the poles if you're packing multiple magnets together
  • Use a keeper bar or magnetic shielding made of metal panels to "absorb" the magnetic field for magnets with a strong pull force
  • Store in a low-moisture, low-humidity environment, since neodymium magnets are especially susceptible to moisture
  • Consider wrapping them in Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor (VCI) packaging paper or bubble wrap for added protection against moisture and rust

For more general safety information regarding neodymium magnets, visit our magnet safety guide.

Samarium Cobalt Magnets

Similar to neodymium magnets, samarium cobalt magnets are strong but brittle. They should also be stored in a closed container with VCI paper and/or a keeper to help maintain their magnetic properties. While they have higher corrosion resistance than neodymium magnets, you should still store them in low-humidity environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you store neodymium magnets together? Yes, but carefully. Alternate the poles when packing multiple magnets together, and use spacers or padding to prevent them from snapping together, which can cause chipping or cracking.

What happens if magnets aren't stored properly? Improperly stored magnets can chip, crack, corrode, or lose their magnetic strength over time. In some cases, damaged magnets can also pose a safety hazard if pieces break off or "jump" toward each other.

Can you store magnets on a metal shelf? It's best to avoid it. Metal shelving can cause magnets to shift or jump unexpectedly, which increases the risk of damage or injury.

Do all types of magnets need to be stored the same way? No. While general precautions apply across the board, ceramic, neodymium, and samarium cobalt magnets each have different sensitivities to temperature, humidity, and handling — which is why type-specific storage matters.

Magnet Safety With Apex Magnets

Like any tool, magnets are extremely useful but must be handled and stored safely. Proper storage keeps your employees safe on the job and helps you avoid unnecessary costs from magnet damage.

If you have any questions about how to store industrial magnets, contact us — we're happy to help.

Safety Warning: Children should not be allowed to play with neodymium magnets as they can be dangerous. Small magnets pose a choking hazard and should never be swallowed or inserted into any part of the body.

Magnets can be dangerous. Neodymium magnets, especially, must be handled with care to avoid personal injury and damage to the magnets. Fingers and other body parts can get severely pinched between two attracting magnets. Bones can be broken by larger magnets. Visit our Magnet Safety page to learn more.