A laser optical fiber storage system (10) and method for temporarily storing a proximal section (12) of an elongated flexible optical fiber (14). The system and method include a storage housing (16) having a closed end (18) and an open end (20). A plug stopper (22) being laser energy impermeable is disposed within the open end of the elongated storage housing to prevent the escape of laser light from within the storage housing. The plug stopper has an access port (24) adapted to enable the proximal section of the optical fiber to be loaded into and withdrawn from the housing. The storage housing is configured to temporarily retain the proximal section of the elongated flexible optical fiber in an elongated configuration or in a spiral configuration. Structure (29) within the storage housing prevents laser light from passing through walls of the storage housing.