Common Mistakes You’re Making When Storing Essential Oils
Essential oils are more than just aromatic wonders; they are powerful, natural extracts used for a variety of purposes, from boosting mood to supporting skin health.
But no matter how high-quality your essential oils are, improper storage can degrade their potency and effectiveness.
Many people make common mistakes when storing their oils, which can lead to wasted product and diminished benefits. In this article, we’ll explore the most common essential oil storage mistakes and how to avoid them.
Exposing Oils to Direct Sunlight
Essential oils are sensitive to light, especially UV rays, which can cause oxidation and diminish their potency.
When exposed to sunlight, the chemical composition of the oils can change, rendering them less effective or even harmful over time.
The dark glass bottles that many oils come in are specifically designed to protect them from UV light.
Why it’s a problem:
Clear glass bottles allow sunlight to penetrate, speeding up the degradation process.
If you’re storing your oils in a well-lit space, it’s easy to forget how sunlight might affect them. Over time, the oil may lose its fragrance, color, and therapeutic properties.
Solution:
Store your essential oils in a cool, dark place—away from direct sunlight and heat. A cupboard, drawer, or a dark shelf will ensure the oils stay protected.
If you’re not sure where to store them, opt for an essential oil case designed to block out light. Always ensure that the bottle’s lid is on tightly to prevent light from entering.
Storing Oils in Warm Environments
Heat is one of the biggest enemies of essential oils. Just like exposure to sunlight, high temperatures can cause oils to oxidize and lose their quality.
If your oils are stored in a warm place, like near a stove, a radiator, or even a sunny windowsill, they may spoil more quickly.
Why it’s a problem:
Essential oils are volatile substances that can break down when exposed to heat. For example, citrus oils like lemon and orange are especially sensitive to temperature changes. Even a few degrees of warmth can degrade their scent and effectiveness.
Solution:
The ideal temperature range for storing essential oils is between 60-70°F (15-21°C). This temperature range helps maintain their chemical integrity.
Avoid placing them on top of appliances that generate heat, such as refrigerators or ovens. A climate-controlled space, such as a closet or drawer, is often the best option.
Using Plastic Containers
While plastic containers might seem like a convenient option for storing your oils, they are not a good choice.
Essential oils are highly concentrated and can break down plastic over time, causing the oils to leach into the plastic or the container to degrade.
Why it’s a problem:
Plastic is porous, and essential oils can interact with the material, leading to potential contamination.
Additionally, some oils—like citrus oils—are particularly aggressive toward plastic and can cause it to degrade faster.
Solution:
Always use glass containers for your oils. Dark amber or cobalt blue glass bottles are ideal because they protect against UV light and are much more resistant to the chemical properties of essential oils. You can also find storage boxes designed to hold glass bottles securely.
Leaving Bottles Unsealed
After using essential oils, it’s easy to forget to seal the bottle properly. However, leaving the cap slightly off or not sealing it tightly can lead to evaporation, contamination, or the introduction of air into the bottle, which can degrade the oil.
Why it’s a problem:
Exposure to air can cause essential oils to oxidize, which affects their therapeutic properties. In some cases, oils like lavender or peppermint can lose their fragrance or potency if exposed to too much air.
Solution:
Always ensure that you tightly screw the cap back onto the bottle after each use. If you’re worried about losing the lid or cap, invest in oil bottles with secure childproof caps or airtight seals. Additionally, store your oils upright to prevent leaks or spills.
Mixing Oils Without Proper Knowledge
Many people love experimenting by mixing essential oils to create custom blends, but without proper knowledge, this can lead to ineffective or even harmful combinations. Not all oils blend well together, and some might cause skin irritation or reduce the effectiveness of others.
Why it’s a problem:
Certain oils, when mixed, can cause allergic reactions or unpleasant side effects. For example, mixing too many citrus oils can cause skin irritation due to their photosensitivity. Some oils may also cancel out each other’s benefits when combined improperly.
Solution:
Before mixing essential oils, always research the oils you plan to combine. Look for reputable sources or consult an expert to ensure compatibility.
Keep in mind that essential oil blending should be done thoughtfully and carefully. If you’re unsure, start with small amounts and test the blend on a small skin patch to check for sensitivity.
Storing Oils in High-Humidity Areas
Essential oils should be stored in dry environments to avoid moisture that can affect their quality. Bathrooms, while convenient, tend to be humid due to showers and steam, which can cause oils to degrade faster.
Why it’s a problem:
Moisture in the air can alter the chemical makeup of the oils, making them less effective or causing them to spoil.
In addition, humidity can cause mold or mildew to develop inside the bottle if it is left in a damp place for too long.
Solution:
Opt for dry storage areas like closets, drawers, or shelves away from any water sources. Avoid storing essential oils in bathrooms or other damp places.
If you must store oils in a high-humidity area, consider using silica gel packs to absorb excess moisture in the air.
Keeping Oils in Original Packaging
It’s tempting to keep essential oils in their original packaging, but it might not be the most effective storage solution.
The packaging may not provide the optimal protection against air, light, and temperature fluctuations that your oils need.
Why it’s a problem:
Original packaging, such as cardboard boxes or plastic bags, may not offer airtight protection. Over time, exposure to air can cause oxidation, reducing the potency of the oil.
Additionally, packaging materials might not block out light as effectively as dark glass containers.
Solution:
Transfer essential oils to dark, airtight glass bottles for long-term storage. Many essential oils come in protective amber bottles, but if your oils are stored in anything other than glass, it’s worth considering transferring them.
You can purchase special essential oil storage containers to keep them organized and protected.
Storing Oils Near Children and Pets
Essential oils can be potent and even toxic if not used properly, so it’s essential to store them safely away from children and pets.
Even though essential oils are natural, they can pose significant risks if ingested or misused.
Why it’s a problem:
Children and pets are curious by nature and may accidentally ingest or spill oils. Certain oils, like eucalyptus and peppermint, can be toxic if swallowed, and even inhaling large amounts can cause harm.
Solution:
Always store essential oils out of reach of children and pets. Consider locking your oils in a cabinet or using a high shelf to keep them safely away from prying hands or paws. Additionally, educate family members on the proper handling and use of essential oils.
Overlooking Expiration Dates
Just like any other product, essential oils have a shelf life. Over time, even properly stored oils can lose their effectiveness and may cause skin irritation if used past their expiration date.
Why it’s a problem:
Expired oils may not only be ineffective but could also cause allergic reactions or irritation. Some oils, such as citrus-based ones, degrade quicker than others, which is why it’s important to monitor expiration dates.
Solution:
Check the expiration dates on your essential oils regularly and dispose of any that have passed their prime. Even if there’s no date listed, use your senses to assess the oils: if they’ve changed in smell, color, or consistency, they’re likely no longer effective.
FAQs
Q: Can I store essential oils in the refrigerator?
A: It’s not recommended to store essential oils in the refrigerator, as the temperature fluctuations when opening and closing the fridge can affect the oils. Stick to a cool, consistent temperature.
Q: How can I tell if my essential oils have gone bad?
A: Check for changes in color, scent, or consistency. Oils that have gone bad may have a rancid smell, a thicker texture, or a cloudier appearance.
Q: Are essential oils safe for kids and pets?
A: Some essential oils are safe for children and pets when used properly and diluted correctly. However, oils like tea tree and eucalyptus can be harmful if ingested or used undiluted. Always research the oils before use.
Conclusion
Proper storage of essential oils is essential to maintain their effectiveness and longevity. By avoiding these common mistakes—such as exposure to light and heat, improper containers, and improper sealing—you can ensure that your oils stay as potent and beneficial as when you first purchased them.
Keep your oils safe, organized, and properly stored, and they will continue to provide their therapeutic benefits for months or even years to come.
