Seal the clay’s inner bag, keep its body label visible and store it away from heat and freezing conditions. Give unfinished pots a separate shelf so opening the clay supply cannot disturb them.
Close the bag around the clay
Fold or seal the inner bag to reduce exposed clay, then place it in a suitable lidded bin if needed. Closing the outer bin does not make an open inner bag airtight.
Keep the manufacturer’s label with the clay. Mark the bin with its body name and whether it holds fresh clay or reclaim so you can identify it without unpacking.
Choose a stable storage location
Avoid direct sun and heat sources. AMACO recommends protected warm storage when freezing is possible and provides restoration guidance for frozen clay.
Use storage rated for the load and portions you can move comfortably. Leave access for cleaning around bags and bins.
Inspect the next portion before throwing
Before throwing, check for a firm outer layer and soft pockets by inspecting the whole portion. Restore uniform working moisture as needed.
Adding water each time you close the bin can leave a wet surface over a firm center. Follow the supplier’s restoration method and allow time for moisture to equalize. Isolate unfamiliar growth or contamination and ask the supplier how to handle it; do not add household chemicals.
Give unfinished work its own label and cover plan
Label boards with the body and date, and organize them by stage: waiting to trim, drying, and ready for firing. Judge firmness directly. Covers can slow moisture loss, while shape and room conditions affect drying time.
Keep pots off a bin lid you will need to open. Leave enough shelf clearance to lift a board without catching a fragile rim or handle.
Questions about this topic
Does clay expire after the bag is opened?
Do not use a universal expiry rule. Follow the manufacturer’s storage guidance and assess identity, contamination and working condition before reuse.
Can I store clay in an unheated garage?
Check whether that location stays within suitable conditions for the material. Freezing and temperature swings need attention; a lidded bin does not make an unsuitable climate controlled.