Abstract: The invention is a sterile, plasma-free platelet storage medium. The platelet storage medium includes a physiologically compatible, aqueous electrolyte solution. In one liter of this electrolyte solution there is between about 3.0 grams and about 7.5 grams of dextrose, between about 3.0 grams and about 6.0 grams of sodium citrate, and between about 2.0 grams and about 4.2 grams of sodium bicarbonate. The platelet storage medium is isotonic and has a pH in a range of between about 6.8 and about 7.4. The platelet storage medium is capable of storing and preserving platelets for at least 10 days.