Essential oils are powerful little bottles of plant magic – but they’re also sensitive to heat, light, and air. A few simple storage habits can go a long way in keeping your oils fresh, effective, and ready to support your family when you need them most.
Proper storage is essential for keeping your oils fresh, potent, and effective. Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts, and while they can be incredibly powerful, they’re also sensitive to light, heat, and air. With a bit of care, you can extend their shelf life and protect your investment.
Why Proper Storage Matters
Preserves Potency: Light, heat, and oxygen can break down the volatile compounds in essential oils, reducing their effectiveness.
Prevents Oxidation: Oxygen exposure can cause oils to oxidise, which not only reduces their therapeutic benefits but can also increase the risk of skin irritation.
Protects Scent Profile: Poorly stored oils can lose their distinctive aroma over time, which affects their emotional and aromatic benefits.
Essential Oil Storage Tips
Use Dark Glass Bottles: Always store your essential oils in dark amber or cobalt glass bottles. These block UV light, which can degrade the oil’s active compounds.
Keep Away from Heat: Store your oils in a cool, dark place – a cupboard or drawer is ideal. Avoid keeping them in the bathroom or near a heat source.
Tighten Lids Properly: Oxygen exposure can quickly degrade an oil, so always tighten the lids securely after each use.
Store Upright: Keep your bottles upright to prevent the oil from degrading the cap or dropper over time.
Avoid Plastic Containers: Essential oils can break down plastic, so always transfer oils to glass bottles if you’re making a blend.
Check for Changes: If an oil’s colour, consistency, or scent changes, it might be past its prime. Some oils, like Lemon and Wild Orange, have shorter shelf lives and should be replaced more often.
Florals (Lavender, Rose, Ylang Ylang, Geranium) – 3-5 years.
Resins (Frankincense, Myrrh, Copaiba) – 5-10 years.
Woods (Cedarwood, Sandalwood) – 6-8 years.
Spices (Clove, Cinnamon, Oregano, Ginger) – 3-5 years.
Note: These are just general guidelines – proper storage can extend these times significantly.
Personal Tips
I keep my essential oils in a small, dark cupboard away from the heat of the kitchen and bathroom. I also check the lids regularly to make sure they’re on tight, especially for those bottles my boys reach for often. And if you’ve got a bunch of roller blends on the go, it’s worth checking them occasionally for leaks or loose caps – it’s amazing how quickly a small spill can empty a bottle!
