The buildup of electric charge on the surface of an object is known as static electricity. While this may be merely a nuisance or annoyance to humans, it can cause substantial damage to sensitive electronic components, which is why using anti-static bags is key to ensure the safety of electronic components that are being stored or transported.

Look for antistatic bags (also known as "ESD bags" or "static shielding bags") that have properties inside and out that will protect the components that they hold. While the name suggests that these bags merely prevent static, they are also a little bit conductive, which means that they will slowly and gently dissipate the build-up of static electricity. They are excellent for packaging electronics such as hard drives, memory sticks, and sound cards - all of which are highly susceptible to static electricity damage. Another benefit is that they are comprised of non-corrosive and waterproof materials, which offer additional layers of protection.

Two of the most common types of anti-static bags are created from metalized PET film (typically silver in color), and a specially-treated polyethylene and are commonly pink, green or black in color. These bags are designed to be semi-transparent so help you easily see which components are inside. Polyethylene antistatic bags may also be found in foam or bubble wrap varieties, which offer additional layers of protection that are especially helpful if your items need to be shipped or moved over a lengthy distance. Other packaging materials with anti-static properties include packing peanuts, poly tubing and bubble wrap.

Because any form of static can ultimately damage your sensitive electronic devices, it's important to use antistatic bags whenever possible so you'll have the best chance of keeping your important and pricey computer components safe. There are a number of manufacturers who offer very inexpensive anti-static materials that can be purchased in minimal quantities, as well as in bulk. One of the best and most reputable when it comes to prices and size variety is Uline, and you may also be able to source these bags at retailers such as Fry's Electronics and Radio Shack.

Although you may be tempted to risk it when transporting or storing your electronic devices and computer components, it is highly recommended for your safety, and for the safety and well-being of your electronics, to use anti-static bags for all of your important memory and sound cards, hard drives, motherboards, etc. For just a little bit of money, that extra protection and assurance that your components are safe from the harm of naturally produced static is well worth it.