If you don’t have the original packaging, keep your batteries in a plastic container. [1] X Expert Source Ricardo MitchellElectrician & Construction Professional, CN Coterie Expert Interview. 6 May 2020.
Do not put a battery in a freezer unless the manufacturer recommends it. Traditional nickel-based batteries lose their charge quickly even at low temperatures. They recharge faster at cool temperatures, but not below 50ºF (10°C) for consumer-grade chargers. More recent LSD (Low Self-Discharge) NiMH batteries are designed to maintain their charge at room temperature.
In addition, don’t store your batteries down on the ground. [10] X Expert Source Ricardo MitchellElectrician & Construction Professional, CN Coterie Expert Interview. 6 May 2020.
Do not store batteries in a metal container. Use a sealed plastic container or a specialized battery storage box. Do not store coins or other metal objects in the same container. Align batteries so the positive terminals cannot contact the negative terminals of other batteries. Cover the terminals with masking tape or plastic caps if you cannot guarantee this.