Whats the best way to preserve a battery (if NOT in use)

I recently purchased two batteries with the Dell 1420 laptop and I want to save one of them for year so I can use it later after my first one stats to lose its stamina.

What is the best way to preserve a laptop battery?
Should I charge it full first and store it?
Should I charge it half way and store it?
Should I drain it and then store it?

Should I use the two batteries interchangeably?

Also, If I do store it for a year, will it still have the same stamina as it did when it was brand new?

Thanks for reading.

 

From the battery guide:

http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=91846#post1696318

No, it won't have the same stamina next year; batteries start to degrade the instant they are made wet. You should have bought a single battery, used it for a year or so, then phased in a second battery. Since you've bought two, might as well use them.

 

Thanks!

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Although, you could probably discharge to 40% and then throw it in the fridge to help preserve it.

 

Don't forget to store it in a zip lock bag to prevent any moisture from affecting it.

 

I would return it if possible. Laptop battery have a shelf life (about 3-4 years)even when not being used and will degrade (just not as fast) along with one being used everyday. Don't ever buy an extra battery for the future.

 

I heard this as well.

 

32F with 40% charge 2% loss in capacity per year, you may want to store, also fridge might be better, between 2% and 3% and I would guess closer to 2%. Not all that much, storing might be the way to go in your situation.