The storage of essential oil fragrances is crucial for enjoying the aromatic world. Not only does storing your scents properly preserve their quality for later, but it also gives you a more enjoyable experience overall. Unfortunately, many of us screw this up in ways that can erode the integrity of these precious oils. As someone who has played around with the world of fragrance for years, I’ve come to understand some perfume storage mistakes to minimize. This is a guide to assist you through the dos & don’ts of fragrance care.
Mistake #1: Storing in Direct Sunlight
Among the common perfume storage, mistakes were for essential oils to be exposed to direct sunlight. UV rays attack the delicate compounds in your oils and can change the scent and the effectiveness of your oils.
Solution:
Keep your essential oils in a cool, dark place. They should be kept in a cabinet or drawer so they don’t get near to windows. If you can, choose dark glass bottles, the more protected the oils are from light exposure. HBNO has dark glass essential oil containers to protect the fragrances from harmful UV rays to have them fresh and vibrant always.
Mistake #2: Ignoring Temperature Fluctuations
Your essential oils can be very dependent on temperature for shelf life! Oils can break down at extreme heat or be altered by freeze/thaw conditions changing scent and consistency.
Solution:
Have an environment in which temperatures stay between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 24°C). One should avoid storing your fragrances near heating vents, stoves, or refrigerators because you don’t want your fragrances subject to sudden temperature changes. You can certainly put your oils in a closet, or even use a dedicated drawer meant for saying oils.
Mistake #3: Using Plastic Containers
You’ll find a lot of misinformation out there about how to store essential oils and many think any old container will do. Unfortunately, plastic can degrade the oils, turning them into less useful products, and contaminating them.
Solution:
When you buy essential oil fragrances be sure always to pick a glass container; preferably, a dark glass. Also, glass is inert, meaning that it doesn’t react with the oils and will maintain integrity. HBNO supplies a listing of oil in superior bottle glass that can be utilized to help keep the essence unique.
Mistake #4: Overexposure to Air
It may oxidize during air exposure and diminish the quality of your oils over time. It’s true especially for citrus scents, since these tend to be more prone to oxidation.
Solution:
Always close the caps tightly when you’re finished using it. Don’t open a bottle, and when you do open it, try to leave it unexposed to air for as little time as possible. If you are regularly using an oil, you can save yourself from air exposure in a larger container by transferring it to a smaller one.
Mistake #5: Mixing Different Oils in One Bottle
There are times when it’s tempting to mix some essential oils for some unique blends, but mixing them in the same container can give you unexpected results. Different oils contain different properties and some do not blend well over time.
Solution:
Always keep your oils separate, and only mix in a pinch or two at a time when you’re prepared to use them. With this approach, we are ensuring that each oil always retains its traits. You can later try out proportions in another rollerball or spray bottle when you’re ready to make a blend.
Mistake #6: Storing in the Bathroom
Since you can apply them after a shower, people tend to keep them in their bathroom. But in a bathroom, humidity can cause condensation, which can ruin your oils.
Solution:
Choose a place not in the bathroom for storage. An ideal space to keep your essential oils is a dry area. Give some thought to possibly having a specific space that you could keep your fragrances in, such as in your bedroom, or a cold, dry place.
Mistake #7: Forgetting to Label Your Bottles
Your collection of essential oils is growing and it’s easy to lose the scent to the name when you have a variety that looks similar in color or style. It can be confusing when trying to use or blend your fragrances.
Solution:
Label your bottles clearly and take the time to do so. Whatever oil you’re using, put the name of the oil and when you purchased it, with any blending notes if necessary. As a collection gets bigger, it’s easy to lose track of which components you have and which don’t. A simple label maker or even handwritten labels can help you keep track of your collection and make it easier to find your favorites.
Mistake #8: Not Considering Shelf Life
Essential oils have a shelf life, all of them. Some oils degrade quicker than others. As a result, those oils that are not familiar with these timelines can often be used, and they have lost potency or scent.
Solution:
Learn your essential oils’ shelf life. Citrus oils will generally last up to 1-2 years, but oils such as sandalwood or patchouli can stay good as long as several years, provided that they’re stored correctly. Use an oil you keep around for a while but never check for changes in scent or consistency first.
Mistake #9: Using Scented Products Near Your Oils
Especially for many people, it means using scented products such as candles or air fresheners within proximity of their essential oils. It can cause cross-contamination and change the scent of your oils.
Solution:
Stay away from products that have a strong scent. Then store them somewhere free and away from closed spaces and don’t let them absorb the tastes of other fragrances as that may be unsafe.
Mistake #10: Neglecting to Clean Your Bottles
If you use oils for blending more often than not, refrain from neglecting to clean your bottles and let the residue build up because that can change the purity of your scents.
Solution:
Wash your blending bottles regularly with warm, soapy water and rinse thoroughly before refilling. Let them dry completely so that they don’t get any moisture contamination.
Conclusion
It is important to store your essential oil fragrances properly so you can keep your quality and longevity. There are several perfume storage mistakes that you should try to avoid so that your scents smell as vibrant, powerful, and happiness-inducing as possible. If you can maintain some habits and tips you can make your HBNO essential oils journey as aromatic as it needs to be. A little care goes a long way in keeping your essential oils magical!
