Let’s talk about essential oil storage! Contrary to popular belief, your essential oils do have a shelf life, and things like heat and light can speed up that process. But at the same time, we want our oils out where we can see them, so we remember to use them and they're easy to grab, right? It’s all about finding that balance between proper storage and convenience. Whether you’re at home or the barn, keeping your oils fresh and potent for as long as possible is key. So, let’s dive into some creative and practical tips to store your essential oil bottles the right way—especially when dealing with hot environments or spaces like barns.
Why Proper Essential Oil Storage Matters
Keeping your essential oils fresh and ready to use starts with proper storage. Oils are sensitive little things—too much light, heat, or air can cause them to oxidize, and when that happens, they lose some of their magic. This is especially something to think about when you're storing oils at the barn, where the heat can be a real problem and inconsistent storage can quickly mess with their quality.
No one wants a leaky bottle or oils that have lost their punch, right? Storing bottles on their sides (especially in hot conditions) can cause the little plastic orifice reducers—you know, those inserts that control how much oil comes out—to break down. That can lead to leaks or even faster oxidation. So, the key? Keep those bottles stored upright, in dark bottles, and in a consistent temperature to avoid any oily disasters!
Storing Oils at the Barn: Best Practices
Now that we understand why storage is key, let’s dive into some practical tips, starting with storage solutions for the barn.
If your tack room has AC, perfect! If not, a fridge is a game-changer, especially during the summer. Storing your oils upright in the fridge keeps them cool and prevents the orifice reducers from breaking down.
If you don’t have access to a fridge or air conditioning, consider taking your oils back and forth instead of leaving them in the heat. The easiest way to do this is with an essential oil carrying case. These cases keep your oils organized and ready to go, so you can easily take them home from the barn and place them by the door for quick access when you head back. They come in different sizes, holding 5 ml bottles, 10 ml, or a mix of both—just be sure to check the description to ensure they fit your bottles, whether they’re traditional oil bottles or roll-ons.
You can even find essential oil keychain holders to keep a few oils with you on the go, so you always have your favorite oil at hand.
If winter is coming or you need to leave your oils at the barn, consider using wooden essential oil boxes. They protect your oils from sunlight and keep them neatly contained. While plastic storage containers can work, they don’t hold up as well over time. Wood is a sturdier option and helps keep your oils organized and safe from the elements. A wooden essential oil holder is a great solution for both organization and protection.
If you’re storing essential oil roller bottles, a drawer organizer will keep them upright and easy to grab. You can also use small storage containers or wooden boxes in shaded areas of the tack room to protect your collection from heat and sunlight.
One of my favorite things to use is a tackle box. Its portable and durable design makes it ideal for keeping your essential oils organized in rugged barn environments. With multiple compartments, it’s perfect for separating and storing your oils securely, while also being easy to grab when you’re on the go or packing up the trailer. Plus, everything stays neatly in one place, so you won’t have to dig around looking for the right oil when you need it quickly.
Another clever option is using a vintage suitcase for your essential oils collection. It’s an affordable and stylish solution that can easily be tucked away in a cool, dark place. To keep everything extra organized, use essential oil storage trays or separators to keep your oils upright and prevent spills. For even more efficiency, label the tops of your oils with stickers and arrange them in alphabetical order or by use, making it quick and easy to find the right bottle when you need it.
Some Of My Favorite Home Essential Oil Storage Ideas
When it comes to organizing your essential oil collection at home, you want them to be both easy to grab and in plain sight—because let’s face it, if they’re tucked away, you’re likely to forget to use them! But leaving them scattered on your kitchen counter isn’t exactly Feng Shui either. So how do you strike the balance between easy access and proper storage?
Here are some of my favorite ideas:
1. Wooden Boxes or Spice Racks
A wooden box designed specifically for essential oils is perfect for keeping them visible while protecting them from light. You can find these storage boxes in a variety of styles, and if you’re on a budget, thrift stores often have great options. Another great option is using a spice rack! It keeps your oils upright, organized, and ready to use while offering some protection from light.
2. Drawer Organizers and Lazy Susans
A drawer organizer is ideal for a smaller collection of oils. It easily fits inside a kitchen drawer or medicine cabinet, keeping your oils organized without taking up too much space. For a fun twist, try a Lazy Susan! Just give it a spin to find the oil you need—an efficient way to store your oils while saving valuable countertop space.
3. Wooden Shelves
For a larger collection, a wooden essential oil shelf is a great investment. These come in various sizes and can be installed in any room of the house. Inside a closet or kitchen cabinet, shelves offer protection from light while keeping your oils accessible.
4. Hanging Jewelry Organizer
A hanging jewelry organizer with clear pockets is perfect for tight spaces. Hang it in a closet or behind a door, and the clear pockets allow you to easily see and access your oils while keeping them upright and protected. It’s a space-saving, functional solution!
5. Repurposed Nail Polish Rack
A nail polish rack works wonders as an essential oil organizer! Hang it in your bathroom, kitchen, or near your diffuser for easy access. It keeps your oils visible, organized, and ready to use.
6. Upcycled Tea Box
An old wooden tea box makes a stylish and eco-friendly storage solution for your essential oils. The individual compartments, originally made for tea bags, are perfect for holding your oils, and the lid helps protect them from light exposure.
7. Rotating Essential Oil Carousel
For a fun and functional storage solution, try a rotating spice or beauty product carousel. It lets you spin and easily access your favorite oils while keeping them organized and within reach. It’s a decorative yet practical way to display your collection on a shelf or countertop.
Creative DIY Essential Oils Storage Solutions
If you're into DIY projects, one simple idea is to grab a piece of wood, drill small holes in it to fit your bottles, and voilà—you’ve got a personalized display that keeps your oils upright and organized. You can sand it down, stain or paint it to match your décor, and it’s not only practical but a great conversation piece. It also makes a great gift for fellow essential oil lovers.
Best Places to Put Your Essential Oils
Where you keep your oils is just as important as how you store them. Think about where you'll use them the most! For example, keep lavender oil in your bedroom for easy access before sleep. Vitality oils used for cooking can stay in the kitchen, perhaps on a middle shelf in your kitchen cabinet—just be sure to keep them away from heat sources. Oils you add to skincare or personal care products can be stored in the bathroom. As for your favorite diffuser oils, a cute wooden box holder next to your diffuser is a great way to keep them handy and organized.
Final Thoughts
Proper storage is key to keeping your essential oils fresh and effective for a long time. Keep in mind that citrus oils tend to oxidize the fastest, so I store mine in the fridge and try to use them within a year. For more details on shelf life, check out my other blog HERE. Whether you’re organizing oils at home or at the barn, it’s all about finding storage solutions that fit your space and routine—making it easy to grab the right oil when you need it.
Looking for more ways to use essential oils in your daily life? Check out my other posts for tips on creating a healthy, toxin-free home and how to safely and effectively use oils with your horses and dogs!
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