Is it okay to store processor in its plastic case with thermal paste on it?

[abadcloyd]

Is it okay to store processor in its plastic case with thermal paste on it? because I'm getting a new motherboard and it will arrive in 2 weeks so I have to store the CPu somewhere so is it okay to put it back to its plastic case with thermal paste on top of it? or do I have to remove it?

 

[Sakkura]

The CPU won't care, as long as the paste doesn't get smeared around and somehow ends up on the bottom side.

The paste might dry out a bit and have a reduced ability to fill the tiny air gaps between the CPU and cooler. So a re-application of paste before installing the CPU might be a good idea.

 

[abadcloyd]

btw is it safer to wear elastic gloves when handling computer parts?

 

[Sakkura]

No. If anything, typical rubber gloves would be a little more liable to build up a static charge that could then damage computer parts.