Store your bearings in their original packaging. The best ways to store bearings is horizontally in a dry place and in their original, unopened package. Never place bearings on a dirty surface.
Rotate your bearings while they’re in storage. For greased bearings, periodically turn over sealed and shielded bearings to prevent the grease from settling on one side.
Use identical bearings for replacements. If needed, contact your authorized bearing distributor or manufacturer for interchange information.
Never wash new bearings before installation. The bearing manufacturers take great care to package and ship bearings that are dirt-free and ready for lubrication. There’s really no need to wash them or remove protective slushing compound.