Essential Oil FAQ
ESSENTIAL OIL HELPFUL HINTS
If you are new to nose work and/or using essential oils here are a few facts about storage and shelf-life.
THE IMPORTANCE OF PROPERLY STORING ESSENTIAL OILS
The shelf-life, quality, and safe use of an essential oil depends largely on the way in which it is stored. When kept in the proper vessel and at the proper temperature, an essential oil can achieve its maximum shelf-life. Information about the self-life of the oils we use varies greatly. My research shows anywhere from 2 to 5 years.
To maximize the shelf-life of your essential oils, follow these storage tips:
- Keep oils in dark glass bottles to protect them from light and UV rays.
- Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and moisture.
- Avoid storing oils in plastic containers, as some oils can degrade plastic over time.
- Use a dropper or a pipette to minimize exposure to air and prevent contamination.
- Ensure that the bottles are tightly sealed to prevent oxidation and evaporation.
- It is best to remove the dropper after each use and seal the bottle using the cap.
(The empty Mylar bags on the Swabs page are great for dropper storage.)
CAN YOU STORE ESSENTIAL OILS IN THE REFRIGERATOR?
Yes, essential oils can be stored in the refrigerator, although it’s not necessary. This option is especially ideal for those who use their oils infrequently. Anise oil has a congealing (crystallization) point of 59ºF. If anise oil is exposed to temperatures below this point, the essential oil will solidify. If this happens, simply place the anise oil bottle in a bowl of warm water until it is liquefied and shake.
(Check out the Labeled Jars page, all three of our vial sizes of oil fit in the empty jar, for frig storage. Three or four vials fit very easily in the jars.)
PLACES WHERE ESSENTIAL OILS SHOULD NOT BE STORED
Do not store essential oils in hot, bright, or humid areas, such as in the bathroom, near a stove, on a window sill or other sunny area, your vehicle and any places where constantly shifting room temperatures might potentially cause the quality of the oil to deteriorate faster.
SWABS
You can keep scented swabs in your vehicle just swap them out periodically to keep them fresh.
Always use swabs with a paper shaft. The oils can deteriorate swabs with plastic shafts.
(Check out the Swabs page for several options of swab storage and colors.)