Essential oils are powerful substances, and storing them properly ensures their longevity and effectiveness. Without the right container, you risk degradation or loss of quality. So, what are the best options?

Glass bottles¹ are the best choice for essential oils as they prevent chemical reactions and preserve the oil's quality. Amber or cobalt glass is preferred to shield against light.

When considering storage, it's crucial to explore the materials that work and the ones to avoid. Let’s dive into the details.

What Material Holds Essential Oils Best?

Essential oils require storage that maintains their potency and prevents chemical reactions. The material of the container plays a vital role in achieving this.

Glass² is the ideal material for essential oils. It is non-reactive, durable, and protects the oils from environmental factors like sunlight and air.

Why Glass Is the Go-To Option

Glass³ is non-porous and does not interact with the compounds in essential oils. This prevents contamination and ensures the oils remain pure. Amber or cobalt-colored glass adds another layer of protection by blocking UV rays.

Can Metals or Ceramics Work?

Stainless steel⁴ can sometimes be used for short-term storage, but prolonged exposure may lead to reactivity. Ceramics, if properly glazed, can be an alternative but are less common.

Is It Okay to Store Essential Oils in Plastic Containers?

You may wonder if plastic containers are suitable for essential oils, especially for convenience. However, the answer is straightforward.

It is not recommended to store essential oils in plastic containers⁵. The oils can degrade the plastic, leading to contamination.

Why Does Plastic Fail?

Essential oils are strong and can dissolve many types of plastics. Over time, this can cause harmful chemicals to leach into the oils. Additionally, plastics may absorb the oils, leading to wastage.

Are There Exceptions?

High-quality plastics like HDPE or PET may be suitable for short-term storage or diluted oils. However, even these are not ideal for long-term use due to potential chemical interactions.

Does Plastic Absorb Essential Oils?

When choosing storage, it's important to consider how materials interact with essential oils. Plastic, in particular, raises concerns.

Yes, plastic⁶ can absorb essential oils. The porous nature of plastic allows oils to seep in, leading to degradation of both the container and the oil.

How Does Absorption Affect Storage?

Absorption can alter the chemical composition of the essential oil, reducing its effectiveness. Additionally, it can compromise the integrity of the container, leading to leaks or contamination.

Practical Implications for Users

Using plastic for essential oil storage increases the risk of losing product value. Investing in proper materials like glass is a small cost for long-term benefits.

What Bottle Is Best for Essential Oils?

Now that we’ve explored unsuitable materials, let’s identify the best container for essential oils.

Amber or cobalt glass bottles⁷ are the best choice for storing essential oils. They prevent light exposure and preserve the oil's integrity.

Features of an Ideal Essential Oil Bottle

1. Material: Glass is non-reactive and ensures the purity of the oil.
2. Color: Amber or cobalt glass blocks harmful UV rays.
3. Closure: Tight-fitting caps or droppers prevent air exposure.

Why These Features Matter

Proper storage minimizes oxidation and preserves the therapeutic properties of essential oils. Using subpar containers risks reducing their effectiveness.

Conclusion

Using the right container ensures the longevity and potency of essential oils. Glass, particularly amber or cobalt, remains the superior choice for quality storage.