How should I store this geranium oil and what is its shelf life?
Geranium oil is a terpene-rich essential oil that ages through oxidation and ester hydrolysis. Stored correctly — full, closed, cool, and dark — it keeps its top notes and quality for up to 24 months from the filling date.
Storage and Shelf Life
| Item | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Shelf life | 24 months from filling date when stored correctly |
| Container | Original sealed drum, HDPE jerrican, or dark glass; keep air space minimal |
| Temperature | 10-25°C, away from heat sources and direct sunlight |
| Humidity | Dry warehouse — avoid damp storage rooms |
| Closure | Always re-seal immediately; oxygen is the main enemy |
| Oxidation signs | Darkening, sharp/acidic odour, rising acid value (> 8 mg KOH/g) |
- The first quality sign to watch is the acid value: fresh batches sit low, and climbing acid value means the esters are breaking down
- Partially used drums should be topped with nitrogen or moved to smaller containers to reduce headspace
- Do not store in direct sunlight — UV accelerates terpene oxidation and can discolour the oil
- Shelf life is stated on the CoA and the label; once opened, expect full quality for 12 months under normal use
- If you re-bottle into smaller units for resale, transfer under nitrogen and date every new container
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This article was published on 2026-09-07, and last updated on 2026-09-07. The article will be continuously updated.
