Get the most out of your oils by implementing some simple essential oil storage tips and extend the shelf life of your oils. You’ll be able to enjoy your oils longer by following these helpful tips.
Essential Oil Storage
Degradation or oxidization comes about from three main ways: light, heat, and oxygen. For this reason, it is best to store your essential oils in a dark, cool place in dark-colored glass bottles. A refrigerator designated specifically for essential oils is ideal. Also, be sure to keep the bottles closed tightly.
Carrier Oils or carrier and essential oil blends can be stored in PET plastic containers.
General Rules of Shelf Life
In general, shelf life is determined by the chemical composition of the essential oils, some of which oxidize or evaporate faster than others.
- About 1-3 years – Monoterpene rich oils, Monoterpene/Oxide (cineole) rich oils, Monoterpene/ Aldehyde rich oils, Monoterpene/Monoterpenol rich oils.
- About 3-5 years – Monoterpenol rich oils, Monoterpenol/Ester rich oils, Ketone and Phenol rich oils (Phenols are closer to 3 years).
- About 6-8 years, or longer – Sesquiterpene rich oils, Sesquiterpenol rich oils.
Common Essential Oils Shelf Life
• 1 – 3 years: Frankincense, Lemon, Tea Tree
• 3 – 5 years: Basil Sweet, Clary Sage, Geranium
• 6 – 8 years: Cedarwood, Vetiver, Patchouli
Essential Oil Storage Containers and Organization
As your collection of essential oils grow, you may start to run out of space to store your bottles. So, investing in some sort of essential oil storage container would be a great idea!