Proper Typewriter Storage

A manual typewriter is built to last for generations, but even the finest machine can suffer if it isn't stored correctly.

Many owners spend time cleaning their typewriter, replacing ribbons, and learning proper maintenance techniques, only to unknowingly shorten the machine's lifespan through poor storage habits.

Fortunately, proper storage is simple.

You don't need expensive equipment or climate-controlled rooms. You simply need to protect your manual typewriter from its three biggest enemies:

Dust
Moisture
Carelessness

Whether you own a portable typewriter, standard typewriter, vintage typewriter, or an antique typewriter, following these simple storage practices will help preserve both its appearance and mechanical performance for many years to come.

Always Cover Your Typewriter

If there's one habit every typewriter owner should develop, it's this:

Always cover your typewriter after use.

Dust is constantly floating through the air. Even in a clean home, microscopic dust particles gradually settle on every exposed surface.

A manual typewriter contains numerous openings where dust can enter the internal mechanism.

Once inside, it begins accumulating around moving parts, eventually affecting smooth operation.

Keeping your machine covered dramatically reduces this problem.

The Best Way to Store Your Typewriter

At RR Typewriter Mart, we recommend the following order of protection:

First Choice

✔ Place the typewriter inside its original carrying case.

Even Better

✔ Keep the machine inside its case.

✔ Cover the case with a dust cover.

This provides two layers of protection against dust and accidental damage.

Even Cupboards Aren't Dustproof

Many owners believe placing their typewriter inside a cupboard is enough.

Unfortunately, it isn't.

Cupboards are not airtight.

Dust still finds its way inside over time.

Even when your manual typewriter is stored inside a cabinet or wardrobe, we still recommend keeping it covered.

A little extra protection today can prevent unnecessary cleaning tomorrow.

Keep Your Typewriter Dry

Moisture is one of the biggest threats to any manual typewriter.

Excess humidity can eventually affect metal components, painted surfaces, and internal mechanisms.

Always store your machine in a dry environment.

Avoid locations such as:

Damp basements
Bathrooms
Areas with water leaks
Rooms with excessive humidity

If the storage area feels damp to you, it probably isn't ideal for your typewriter either.

Avoid Direct Sunlight

Natural light may look beautiful on display, but prolonged exposure to direct sunlight isn't recommended.

Continuous sunlight can gradually:

Fade paint
Affect decals
Dry certain materials over many years
Increase heat around the machine

Displaying your typewriter near a window occasionally isn't a problem.

Leaving it there permanently is.

Keep Away from Chemicals

Never store your manual typewriter near:

Cleaning chemicals
Paints
Solvents
Petrol
Diesel
Kerosene
Strong household cleaners

Chemical fumes can affect finishes over time and increase the risk of accidental spills.

Choose a clean, dry storage area away from harsh chemicals.

Don't Place Heavy Objects on Top

A manual typewriter may be made largely of metal, but it isn't designed to support heavy loads.

Avoid placing:

Boxes
Books
Tools
Appliances
Other heavy items

on top of either the machine or its carrying case.

Excess weight can damage the case, misalign components, or place unnecessary stress on the carriage.

Long-Term Storage

If you don't plan on using your typewriter for several weeks or months:

Clean it thoroughly before storing.
Cover it properly.
Store it in a dry location.
Keep it inside its carrying case whenever possible.

Whenever practical, remove it from storage occasionally and type a few lines.

Mechanical machines benefit from occasional movement.

Treat It Like a Valuable Instrument

People often ask us:

"How should I treat my typewriter?"

Our answer is simple.

Treat it the same way you would treat your:

Laptop
Camera
Musical instrument

You wouldn't leave those exposed to rain, dust, or harsh sunlight.

Your manual typewriter deserves the same level of care.

Storage Mistakes to Avoid

Never:

❌ Leave your typewriter uncovered for long periods.

❌ Store it in damp rooms.

❌ Keep it next to chemicals.

❌ Leave it in prolonged direct sunlight.

❌ Stack heavy objects on top of it.

❌ Assume cupboards are completely dustproof.

Small mistakes repeated over years often become expensive repairs.

Workshop Wisdom from RR Typewriter Mart

A covered typewriter is a protected typewriter.

Dust never sleeps, so don't leave your machine uncovered.

Store your typewriter the way you'd store something valuable—because it is.

Good storage doesn't just preserve appearance; it protects precision.

Continue Reading

Your manual typewriter is now stored safely, but what happens when you need to move it?

Whether you're taking it to another room, travelling, or shipping it across the country, transporting a typewriter correctly is just as important as storing it properly.

Next Guide: Transporting a Typewriter Safely – How to Prevent Damage During Handling and Shipping.