As the weather warms up, we get the same important question every year: what’s the best way to store essential oils?
Proper storage helps your oils last longer, retain their full therapeutic value, and stay safely managed in your home. When stored well, essential oils can remain vibrant for years (and a few—like sandalwood, vetiver, and patchouli—may even deepen with age). But most oils will gradually degrade as oxidation occurs. Citrus oils are especially delicate and tend to have a shorter shelf life.
To keep it simple, remember these five words:
Glass. Dark. Cool. Snug. Safe.
Let’s walk through each one.
1) Glass
Essential oils should always be stored in glass bottles—never plastic. Undiluted essential oils can break down (and even melt) plastic containers over time.
Our essential oils come in amber glass bottles, and if you want additional bottles (in brown or blue), you can purchase them here.
Note: Products with lower concentrations of essential oils—like carrier oils, lotions, shampoos, and blends—can typically be stored in plastic without the same risk.
2) Dark
Ultra-violet light can damage the delicate constituents of essential oils. Choose dark glass (not clear), and avoid storing oils where they’ll receive long periods of direct sunlight—like a windowsill.
Instead, keep your oils organized in a cool, dark place (a cabinet, drawer, or dedicated storage box). Many aromatherapists love storage boxes because they keep oils together, protected, and less exposed to temperature shifts.
3) Cool
Extreme heat can reduce the potency of essential oils over time. A few hours in a warm car won’t necessarily “ruin” most oils, but for best longevity, store them somewhere consistently cool—especially citrus oils.
Some people store essential oils in the refrigerator for an extra layer of protection (it’s also helpful for balms and salves that can soften in summer heat). If you refrigerate oils, simply warm the bottle in your hands for a few minutes before use.
One exception: some oils contain natural waxes that can solidify in the fridge (such as star anise, rose otto, and fennel). If that happens, let the bottle sit at room temperature for an hour or two before using.
4) Snug
Essential oils are volatile. If they’re exposed to oxygen for too long, they can evaporate and deteriorate—losing aromatherapeutic value. In some cases, oxidized oils can also become skin irritants.
Make it a simple habit: cap your oils tightly after every use. This matters even more if you have pets or children at home.
5) Safe
As essential oils become more popular, calls to poison control centers have increased. Many cases involve young children ingesting essential oils—and even small amounts can be dangerous.
Please don’t confuse natural with harmless. Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts: it takes many pounds of plant material to produce a small amount of oil. That potency deserves respect.
Children and pets are naturally curious, and some oils smell especially inviting. Treat essential oils like medicine: store them up high, out of reach, and preferably in a closed cabinet.
Essential oils are also flammable. Never store them near candles, woodstoves, or any source of ignition.
Shop Essential Oils
If you’re ready to refresh your collection (or start small with a few essentials), explore our selection here:
FAQ
Should essential oils be stored in the refrigerator?
They can be. Refrigeration helps keep oils dark and cool, which supports longevity. Just warm bottles in your hands before use. If an oil thickens due to natural waxes, let it return to room temperature for an hour or two.
Why can’t I store essential oils in plastic?
Undiluted essential oils can degrade plastic over time. Glass is the safest, most stable option for long-term storage.
What’s the biggest mistake people make with storage?
Leaving oils exposed to heat, sunlight, or oxygen. Keep caps snug, store in a cool dark place, and treat oils with the same care you would any potent home item.
