Here's What You Need to Know About Essential Oil Storage
Essential oils are nature's potent gifts, cherished for their therapeutic properties and delightful fragrances. However, to fully harness their benefits, it's crucial to comprehend the significance of proper essential oil storage. In this article, we explore the essentials of preserving your aromatic treasures.
Why is Proper Essential Oil Storage Important?
Proper storage of essential oils is crucial to maintain their quality and effectiveness. Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that can be volatile and sensitive to environmental factors. By storing them correctly, you can ensure their longevity and maximize their therapeutic benefits.
What Factors Affect Essential Oil Storage?
Several factors can impact the quality of essential oils:
- Light: Essential oils are sensitive to light and can degrade when exposed to direct sunlight or bright artificial light. It is best to store them in dark-colored glass bottles that protect against UV rays.
- Temperature: Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can alter the chemical composition of essential oils. It is recommended to store them in a cool, dry place away from heat sources.
- Air Exposure: Essential oils can oxidize when exposed to air, leading to a decrease in their therapeutic properties. Ensure that the bottles are tightly sealed to minimize air exposure.
- Humidity: Moisture can cause essential oils to deteriorate and potentially develop mold. Keep them away from humid environments, such as bathrooms.
How To Properly Store Essential Oils
Follow these guidelines to store your essential oils correctly:
- Choose dark-colored glass bottles: Opt for amber or cobalt blue bottles to protect the oils from light.
- Keep them in a cool place: Find a storage area that maintains a consistent temperature, ideally between 15-25°C (59-77°F).
- Avoid direct sunlight: Store the oils in a dark cabinet or drawer, away from windows or areas with excessive light exposure.
- Seal the bottles tightly: Ensure the caps are securely tightened to prevent air exposure.
- Label the bottles: Clearly label each bottle with the name of the essential oil to easily identify them.
- Store them out of reach: Keep essential oils out of the reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
How Long Do Essential Oils Last?
The shelf life of essential oils can vary depending on the specific oil and storage conditions. Generally, most essential oils can last for several years when stored properly. However, some oils, such as citrus oils, have a shorter shelf life of around 1-2 years. It's important to regularly check the aroma and appearance of your oils and discard any that have changed in color, consistency, or smell.
Make Sure You Have The Right Gear To Protect Your Oils
It’s time to ditch the Ziploc baggies, and don’t you dare think of putting your essential oils in your purse or briefcase! Hands down, the best gear for protecting your precious essential oils is one of the many high-quality carrying cases we offer at Kumi Oils!
Our essential oil storage box will help you keep your bottles properly organized and easily accessible while protecting them from accidents that might shatter the glass. Storing oils in a storage container like ours will also make your favorite essential oils last up to two years.
From keychain carrying cases to hardshell storage containers that can hold upwards of 30 vials, we guarantee that we’ll have exactly what you’re looking for!
Conclusion
Proper storage of essential oils is essential to maintain their quality and potency. By protecting them from light, heat, air exposure, and humidity, you can ensure that your essential oils remain effective for a longer period. Remember to store them in dark-colored glass bottles, in a cool place, and tightly sealed. With the right storage practices, you can enjoy the benefits of your essential oils for years to come.