How To Store Gel Pens (Best Orientation, Storage Methods, And Places To Avoid
Proper gel pen storage is essential to maintain ink consistency, prevent drying, and maximize the lifespan of your pens. Unlike ballpoint pens, gel pens use water-based ink, which is more likely to dry out if not stored correctly.
In this guide, we explore how to store gel pens to avoid issues like skipping, clogged tips, or leaks. Read on for the correct methods for how to store pens and markers to ensure smooth writing performance, covering everything from storage orientation to environmental considerations.

Key Takeaways
- The best way to store gel pens is usually horizontally, and avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, heat, or humidity.
- If you store pens in a holder, storing them tip-down can help to maintain steady ink flow, but the best solution varies by pen type.
- Always cap your pens securely before putting them into storage, and organize them well to keep them accessible.
- We supply high-quality custom gel pens in a range of styles that you can personalize to match your brand or other preferences.
Table of contents
-
How To Store Gel Pens?
-
How To Store Gel Pens So They Don’t Dry Out
-
Best Way To Store Gelly Roll Pens
-
How Do You Store Pentel Gel Pens?
-
How To Store Ballpoint Pens So It Maintains Ink Flow?
-
How To Store Felt Tip Pens
-
Where Is The Best Place To Store Pens At Home?
-
How Can You Organize Your Gel Pens Effectively?
-
Does Gravity Affect How You Should Store Pens?
How To Store Gel Pens?
Proper gel pen storage is crucial for maintaining smooth ink flow and maximizing the lifespan of your pens. Unlike ballpoint pens, gel pens contain water-based ink which is prone to drying out if you don’t store it properly.
One of the most common errors in how to store gel pens is leaving them uncapped. Doing this causes the ink to evaporate or it may lead to a clogged tip. Another common mistake is to store them in extreme temperatures, which can affect the ink’s consistency as it becomes too thick or too runny.
The best way to store gel pens depends on the specific pen, but horizontal storage is usually recommended to maintain even distribution of the ink. When considering how to store pens and markers, a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight is always best. This goes for our custom metallic plastic gel pens as well.

Should You Store Gel Pens Up Or Down?
There is an ongoing debate in gel pen storage about whether to keep them tip-up or tip-down. Unlike ballpoint pens, the ink in gel pens is thicker and water-based, so it can shift inside the pen during storage.
Many people will say that you should store gel pens horizontally to ensure even ink flow and prevent clogging. Let’s look at the problems with other orientations:
- Tip-up: The ink may settle away from the tip.
- Tip-down: Excess ink could accumulate at the tip, causing a leak.
Many manufacturers recommend horizontal storage to store pens effectively, but tip-down may be the best option if you store them in a holder. Gel pens are among the most popular types of promotional products for business, but make sure you provide storage recommendations.
How To Store Gel Pens So They Don’t Dry Out
To prevent your gel pens drying out, store them in a sealed container with minimal air exposure. The environment plays a key role in how to store pens and markers, so keep them in a cool, dry place to avoid premature drying.
Here are a few other tips to keep gel pens from drying out:
- Always replace the cap tightly after use to minimize air exposure.
- Avoid storing in direct sunlight or near heat sources as this can affect the ink.
- Avoid damp areas as moisture and humidity can compromise ink flow.
The water-based ink is a key difference between gel pens and ballpoint pens. If a gel pen dries out, you could try soaking the tip in warm water or scribbling on scrap paper to reactivate the ink.
Looking for gel pens for writing that last well in storage?
Our custom flawless ballpoint plastic gel pens offer smooth, precise writing action and are optimized to retain their quality in storage for long-term use.
Best Way To Store Gelly Roll Pens
Gelly Roll pens are some of the best gel pens for adult coloring, and they require specific gel pen storage techniques due to their unique formula. These pens are filled with opaque, water-based ink that flows smoothly but may dry out with incorrect storage.
The best way to store Gelly Roll pens is horizontally, as this prevents the ink from settling unevenly. Unlike markers, which you should store tip-down, Gelly Roll pens work best when stored flat in a cool, dry place.
If you store these pens vertically for a long time, ink might flow away from the tip, leading to issues like skipping. Proper gel pen storage also includes keeping the cap on securely when not in use so air exposure doesn’t cause the ink to thicken. Follow these guidelines for smooth, uninterrupted writing.
How Do You Store Pentel Gel Pens?
Pentel gel pens are popular for their smooth ink flow, but proper gel pen storage is important to keep them at their best. The best way to store gel pens from Pentel is horizontally to maintain even ink distribution. This is generally perceived to be the best way to store pens.
Ballpoint pens can be stored tip-up, but gel ink is more prone to settling incorrectly if you store pens vertically. There may be different storage needs for specific models, like the Pentel EnerGel, so make sure you check manufacturer guidelines.
To prevent drying, consider the following tips:
- Always replace caps tightly
- Avoid exposing pens to heat or direct sunlight
If a Pentel gel pen stops working, you may be able to restore ink flow by scribbling on paper or warming the tip. Follow guidance on the best way to store pens and markers to maximize the lifespan of Pental pens.

Enjoy durable, high-quality coloring from reliable gel pens with personalized designs
Our custom debonair plastic gel pens deliver vibrant ink and have stylish, long-lasting designs that you can customize and keep in storage until needed.
Explore optionsHow To Store Ballpoint Pens So It Maintains Ink Flow?
Ballpoint pens are different from gel pens as they contain oil-based ink which has a different consistency and drying speed. When considering how to store ballpoint pens, the ideal orientation is to keep them tip-down to ensure consistent ink flow.
Doing this helps prevent the ink from retracting inside the pen, which can cause issues like skipping. Ballpoint pens are less prone to drying than gel ones, but extreme temperatures can cause the ink to thicken. Thus, you should store ballpoint pens in a temperature-controlled environment, avoiding excessive heat or humidity.
In our online store, we sell matte cover plastic gel pens, ballpoint pens, and more that provide smooth writing and durable ink. Work with us to customize them to fit your brand or preferences and enjoy a selection of high-quality pens that are simple to store.
How To Store Felt Tip Pens
Felt-tip pens like markers and highlighters require careful pen storage to prevent them from drying out. Unlike gel or ballpoint pens, how to store highlighters and markers depends on the ink formula. Horizontal storage is a common manufacturer recommendation to keep the ink evenly distributed.
Here are the problems with a vertical orientation:
- Tip-up: This can cause ink to flow away from the tip, resulting in dry markers.
- Tip-down: This can cause ink pooling, resulting in leaks.
You should always store pens and markers in a cool, dry place, and their caps must be tightly secured. If a felt tip pen dries out, you may be able to reactivate the ink with some gentle shaking or by placing the tip in warm water.
If you want to avoid this issue altogether, look into custom metal pencils that don’t need ink to work.
Should Gel Pens Be Stored In A Mug Or Holder?
It is quite common for people to store gel pens in mugs or desk organizers, but is this the best way to store gel pens? While it is convenient, it can be a mistake to store gel pens tip-up as ink might settle away from the tip. This leads to dry starts and inconsistent flow.
The best way to store pens and markers for long-term use is to keep them horizontally in a case or drawer. They could even go this way round in the front pouch of a cotton zipper tote bag. If you are using a holder, store the pens tip-down to help keep the ink ready to flow. However, this method may not be suitable for all brands.
Consider using a dedicated gel pen storage case to protect against dust, light, and air exposure.
Want to create reliable gel pens that have a unique aesthetic?
Work with us to create your own cultured retractable plastic gel pens that offer high-quality writing and a personalized design for branding or other purposes.
Where Is The Best Place To Store Pens At Home?
Finding the best way to store gel pens in your home depends on factors like organization and protection. You could store them in a drawer, case, or box, away from direct sunlight, to preserve ink flow.
Let’s look at a few key considerations:
- Humidity: Avoid humid areas like kitchens or bathrooms as it can degrade the ink.
- Climate control: A temperature-regulated room is ideal to ensure your pens and markers don’t dry out or leak.
- Clear storage cases: These make it easier to find the color you need.
- Efficient organization: If you have limited space, try hanging organizers or desk trays to arrange your pens.
- Travel: If you have a gel pen for note taking at college, carry it in a zippered pouch to help prevent accidental leaks.
How Can You Organize Your Gel Pens Effectively?
Organize your pens by color, brand, or type to ensure easy access and prolong their lifespans. Studies have found that ink from gel pens dries within seconds on paper, so pens are liable to dry out in storage if you are not organized.
The best way to store pens involves storage cases with compartments that help prevent ink from settling incorrectly. Label different sections to keep your collection neat and consider a rotating pen holder if you frequently use multiple colors.
Try not to stack your pens too tightly as the pressure could cause damage to the pens themselves. Rotate older pens to the front to ensure regular use and minimal risk of them drying out. It only takes a little attention and diligence to store pens and markers in an organized way that helps keep your workspace tidy and maintain the condition of your gel pens.

Create unique, high-quality gel pens for coloring or writing
With our service, you can create custom slick plastic gel pens that are optimized for coloring or writing, and they last well in storage for long-term use.
Create yoursDoes Gravity Affect How You Should Store Pens?
Gravity plays a significant role in how to store gel pens and other writing implements. Gel pens are filled with water-based ink that flows smoothly via gravity and capillary action. If you store them incorrectly, it can lead to uneven ink distribution, leading to issues like skipping or drying out.
Certain pens are more affected than others by improper storage, and both gel and felt tips pens fall into this category. If you store them tip-up, gel ink might retract from the tip and make it difficult to start writing. Ballpoint pens, meanwhile, have thicker ink, and you should store them tip-down to keep them primed.
Prolong the lifespan of your urbane plastic gel pens by storing them horizontally to ensure consistent ink distribution. Markers and felt-tip pens should also be stored flat, while ballpoint pens are best stored vertically with the tip down.
Frequently Asked Questions About How To Store Gel Pens
How To Store Gel Pens So They Don’t Dry Out Easily?
The best way to store gel pens is horizontally in a cool, dry environment. The caps should be tightly secured to prevent ink evaporation.
Should You Store Gel Pens Up Or Down For Smooth Writing?
The best orientation to store gel pens is horizontally. If you are using a holder, however, it is recommended to store them tip-down so that the ink is ready to flow.