Storing essential oils properly can be confusing, especially when there are so many conflicting opinions. Without proper storage, your oils may degrade and lose their effectiveness over time.
The best way to store essential oils is to keep them in dark glass bottles1, away from heat, light, and air exposure. This ensures their quality and longevity.
Essential oils are valuable and delicate, so it's crucial to understand how to preserve them. Let’s dive into specific questions about storing essential oils.
Should essential oils be kept in the fridge?
Keeping essential oils in the fridge can be a debated topic. So, what’s the right answer?
Yes, storing essential oils in the fridge can help extend their shelf life, especially for citrus oils2 and blends. However, not all oils require refrigeration.
When to refrigerate essential oils
Refrigeration helps slow down oxidation and maintains the chemical integrity of oils prone to spoilage. Citrus oils like lemon essential oil3 are more sensitive to heat and light, making the fridge an ideal storage option. However, thicker oils like sandalwood may become too viscous when refrigerated.
| Oil Type | Refrigeration Needed? | Shelf Life Extended |
|---|---|---|
| Citrus oils | Yes | Up to 1 year |
| Floral oils | Optional | Minimal benefit |
| Resin-based oils | Not required | No change |
Practical tips for refrigerating oils
- Label bottles with the date of refrigeration.
- Allow oils to return to room temperature before use to avoid condensation inside the bottle.
What is the 30/50/20 rule for essential oils?
The 30/50/20 rule4 simplifies how you store essential oils based on environmental factors.
The 30/50/20 rule means storing essential oils at 30% humidity, 50°F temperature, and in 20% light exposure or less.
This rule is not hard to follow, and it creates an optimal environment for maintaining the potency of your oils.
Breaking down the 30/50/20 rule
- 30% Humidity: High humidity can affect the seals and cause contamination. A dry, climate-controlled space is best.
- 50°F Temperature: Cooler temperatures slow the oxidation process. While refrigeration is ideal, a dark, cool cabinet works too.
- 20% Light Exposure: Prolonged exposure to light can degrade oils, especially those stored in clear bottles.
Following this rule ensures your essential oils last as long as possible without losing their aromatic or therapeutic properties.
Should essential oils be kept in dark bottles?
Ever wondered why essential oils come in dark bottles? The answer lies in their protection.
Yes, dark bottles5 are crucial for protecting essential oils from light exposure, which can degrade their chemical properties.
Why light exposure is harmful
Ultraviolet (UV) rays break down essential oils at the molecular level, reducing their therapeutic effectiveness. Clear bottles allow light in, making oils more vulnerable to oxidation and spoilage.
Choosing the right bottle material
Dark glass bottles, such as amber or cobalt blue, block UV rays effectively. While plastic bottles may seem convenient, they can leach chemicals into the oils and compromise their purity.
What Is the Best Bottle for Essential Oils?
Selecting the right bottle for your essential oils is just as important as where you store them.
The best bottles for essential oils are dark glass bottles, preferably amber or cobalt blue, with airtight closures to prevent oxidation.
Key Considerations When Choosing Bottles
- Material: Glass is non-reactive, preserving the oil’s chemical composition. Avoid plastic at all costs.
- Size: Smaller bottles reduce air space, limiting oxidation. Choose sizes appropriate for your usage.
- Closure: Airtight caps with droppers are ideal for precision and avoiding contamination.
| Bottle Feature | Best Choice | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Glass | Non-reactive, durable |
| Color | Amber or cobalt | Blocks UV light |
| Closure | Airtight | Prevents contamination |
Why Use Amber Glass Bottles for Essential Oils?
Amber glass bottles are considered the gold standard for essential oil storage. But why is amber so special?
Amber glass bottles protect essential oils better than other materials by filtering out the most harmful light wavelengths.
Benefits of Amber Glass
Amber glass blocks nearly all UVB and UVC rays, which are the most damaging to essential oils. This makes it superior to clear or even cobalt blue glass for long-term storage. Additionally, the neutral tones of amber glass keep the oils stable under varying light conditions.
Are Other Colors Effective?
While cobalt blue glass also offers UV protection, it is slightly less effective than amber. Clear glass bottles should only be used for short-term storage or display purposes.
| Bottle Color | UV Protection Level |
|---|---|
| Amber | Excellent |
| Cobalt Blue | Good |
| Clear | Poor |
Conclusion
Storing essential oils the right way ensures their longevity and effectiveness. Use dark glass bottles, follow the 30/50/20 rule, and consider refrigeration for certain oils. Proper care leads to better results, both in aroma and therapeutic value.
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Explanation of why dark glass bottles protect essential oils from heat, light, and air exposure. ↩
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Details on how refrigeration helps extend the life of citrus oils. ↩
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Explanation of why lemon essential oil degrades faster without proper storage. ↩
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Explanation of the 30/50/20 rule for essential oils storage. ↩
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Information about the effectiveness of dark glass bottles over clear ones for storing essential oils. ↩
