How to properly store your lithium-ion batteries to avoid risks?

Lithium-ion batteries power a large part of our daily lives today: smartphones, professional tools, bicycles, and electric vehicles. While they are efficient and effective, they remain chemically unstable components, which can pose serious risks if stored improperly: fire, explosion, accelerated degradation, etc.

Here are the best practices to adopt to ensure safe storage, in compliance with current regulations, and to extend the life of your batteries.

Why is there a risk in storing lithium-ion batteries?

The electrochemical structure of lithium-ion batteries makes them particularly sensitive to heat, shock, humidity, and short circuits. In the event of failure, thermal runaway can occur, leading to the release of flammable gases, a rapid rise in temperature, and potentially a fire that is difficult to control.

💡 Please note : Large-capacity batteries, such as those used in industrial environments or in electric vehicles, are the most exposed to risks if they are stored improperly.

Store in a suitable place

Transporting lithium-ion batteries, even in small quantities, is not a trivial matter. Due to the risks of fire, chemical leaks, and proper storage, proper storage begins with a controlled environment:

• Recommended temperature: between +10°C and +40°C, ideally around 20°C.
• Space : dry, well, ventilated, protected from frost and direct sunlight
• Avoid proximity to a heat source (heating, engine, southern exposure).
• For professional environments: opt for fireproof safety cabinets or containers, compliant with EN14470-1 or VDMA 24994 standards.

👉 Check out our fireproof storage cabinets and containers

Avoid shocks and mechanical damage

A simple fall or blow can alter the integrity of a lithium-ion cell:

• Handle batteries with care.
• Avoid unstable stacks or walk-through areas.
• Protect the terminals with insulating caps or store the batteries in their devices (in good condition).

📦 For secure transport: Discover our suitable transport cases and containers

Prevent short circuits

A short circuit can be triggered by simple contact between the terminals or with a metal object:

• Store batteries individually or in separate compartments.
• Keep them away from conductive materials or flammable liquids.
• Never stack batteries without protection between them.

Maintain an intermediate charge

A completely empty or completely full battery can degrade if stored for too long:

• Recommended charge level: between 40% and 70%, ideally around 50%.
• Lightly recharge unused batteries every 3 to 4 months.
• Monitor batteries on long-term standby (unused vehicles, slow-moving stock, etc.).

💡 Some VLICOVER systems incorporate active temperature and voltage monitoring to prevent incidents related to overcharging or deep discharge.

Regulations : what does the law in 2025 ?

Swelling, a chemical odor, leakage, or abnormal heating are signs of imminent danger. Don’t take any risks:

• Isolate the battery in a fireproof container, preferably metal, with a non-tight lid.
• Store it in a ventilated place, away from any source of ignition.
• Use a specialized channel for its disposal in accordance with hazardous waste regulations.

👉 See our emergency containment solutions and intervention kits

✅ In summary: best practices

✔️ Controlled temperature, dry and well-ventilated area
✔️ Keep away from heat sources and flammable materials
✔️ Mechanical and electrical protection (terminal insulation, gentle handling)
✔️ Charge level maintained at 40-70%
✔️ Regular visual inspection + isolation of suspect batteries
✔️ Strict compliance with regulations and manufacturer’s instructions

Secure your installations with VLICOVER

Whether you are an industrial company, an electric fleet manager, a logistics site or a community, VLICOVER supports you in the implementation of certified and adapted solutions.

👉 See all our storage and fire prevention solutions for lithium-ion batteries