It is easy to accumulate a small collection of essential oils, with some bottles used daily and others forgotten in a drawer. Unlike many household products, essential oils do change over time. Storing them well helps them keep their pleasant scent longer, and knowing the signs of an older oil helps you use them more comfortably.
This is general information. Always follow the storage instructions and any dates listed on your product.
Why Essential Oils Change
Essential oils are made of many natural aromatic compounds. Over time, exposure to oxygen, heat and light can cause some of these compounds to break down or oxidize. When that happens, an oil’s scent can shift, and aromatherapy references note that oxidized oils may be more likely to irritate the skin.
Some oils change more quickly than others. Citrus oils, such as lemon, orange and bergamot, and oils from conifer trees, like pine and fir, are often described as having a shorter shelf life. Many oils from woods and resins tend to change more slowly.
The Basics of Good Storage
A few habits make a meaningful difference:
- Keep bottles tightly capped when not in use.
- Store oils in dark glass bottles, such as amber or cobalt.
- Keep them in a cool, dark place, away from windows, stoves and heaters.
- Avoid leaving oils in a hot car, which can happen easily in a Georgia summer.
- Keep bottles upright to protect the cap and dropper.
Some people store a few of their more delicate oils in the refrigerator in a sealed container, away from food. If you do, let the bottle come to room temperature before opening to limit condensation.
Mind the Air Space
As you use up a bottle, more air fills the space inside, and that air contact contributes to changes in the oil. If you have a large bottle you use only occasionally, consider buying smaller sizes in the future so you can finish them while they are fresh.
Signs an Oil May Be Past Its Best
Trust your senses. An oil may be past its best if you notice:
- A scent that smells sour, flat or noticeably different from when you bought it
- A thicker or stickier texture than usual
- Cloudiness or a change in color
- A residue around the cap
When in doubt, it is best not to apply an older oil to your skin.
Keep Track of Your Collection
A simple system helps. When you open a new bottle, write the date on a small label. Keep a short list of what you have, so you do not buy duplicates. Every few months, take inventory and set aside anything that seems to have changed.
Storing Blends and Carrier Oils
Diluted blends and carrier oils also change. Carrier oils can go rancid, especially in warm conditions. Mix blends in small batches, label them with the date and ingredients, and use them within a reasonable time. Store them like your essential oils: capped, cool and out of the light.
Finally, always keep essential oils out of reach of children and pets. A high shelf or a closed cabinet is ideal. With a little care, your collection will stay pleasant to use and easy to enjoy.