How to Store E-Liquids
When you buy an e-liquid, where does it go? On the counter? In a draw, waiting to be forgotten about? Left in your car? We all have a habit of leaving our e-liquid where it is the most convenient. Storing our e-liquid is not something that we think about when we first start vaping but perhaps it should. Where you store your e-liquid could make a huge difference to the longevity of your liquids which will ultimately help you save money and make the most out of your favourite flavours.
Protecting Your E-Liquid from the ‘Elements’
One of the best things you can do to prolong the lifespan of your e-liquid is to avoid heat, light and air. These three ‘elements’ will break down your e-liquid and will ultimately change the taste and colour over time.
- Light – The UV rays in light will most likely affect your e-liquid. The UV rays will warm up your e-liquid and can split the individual ingredients at a molecular level. To protect your e-liquid, it is best to store it in a dark place, especially if you are storing your e-liquid for months.
- Heat – Heat is very similar to the UV rays in which the heat will break down the ingredients into smaller compounds. This will change the taste of your e-liquid and can be avoided by keeping your juice in a cool, dark place.
- Air – When your e-liquid gets exposed to oxygen it will react with the nicotine to create cotinine. This process will break down the nicotine in your e-liquid. To avoid this, make sure your e-liquid is airtight when in storage and place lids back on your bottles after using.
Where is the Best Place to Store E-Liquid?
The best place to keep your e-liquid to protect it from spoiling is in a cool, dark place. This will prevent any light or heat from reaching your e-liquid and will prolong its good flavour. When choosing a place for your e-liquid make sure that the cupboard is cool and away from any heat source and the e-liquid is sealed and airtight.
When Does E-Liquid Expire?
All e-liquids will generally have a best-before date of under two years. Liquid without nicotine can last longer because it is the nicotine component that will break down first. Expiry dates are only an estimation and over a long period of time, there is no guarantee that the e-liquid will be of the same quality as when you originally purchased it.
All e-liquids have a different expiry date due to their ingredients and manufacturing process. You can always check the quality of your e-liquid at home by keeping an eye out for:
- Storage – Has your e-liquid been kept in a hot place, in light or left open? If so you might notice a change of colour or consistency.
- Separation – If your e-liquid has separated, give it a shake, if it doesn’t mix again then you might have to buy a new one!
- Smell – If your e-liquid smells bad, it could be spoiled.
How Much E-Liquid Should I Buy?
It really depends on how much you use. Some people like to buy a months’ worth of e-liquid to ensure that they have a supply. It might also be a good idea to look at making your own e-liquid, this will allow you to make more of your favourite flavour and experiment with new flavours. You can check out our mixologist guide and e-liquid calculator guide for more information!
