How to Properly Store Those Concentrates

How to Properly Store Those Concentrates

Posted by Vaporizer Chief on 14th Nov 2022

We all spend a lot of time carefully choosing between an endless array of concentrates on the market. We look for things like potency, the ideal strain and the right consistency to satisfy our needs. But, you can purchase the highest-quality concentrate on the market and still feel disappointed if you’re not storing it properly. Luckily, storing your dabs properly is actually very easy, and the little bit of effort that requires will ensure you enjoy them to the last drop in your trusty rig or dabbing device.

Do Concentrates Expire?

Yes, since concentrates contain organic compounds, and organic compounds don’t last forever. Concentrates generally last for about 6 months, and after that point, they’re no longer considered fresh. Some dabs may come with an expiration date on the label, but this isn’t always the case since it’s not required.

Is it Safe to Dab Expired Concentrates?

Expired dabs are generally not unsafe to consume, with the exception of those that are moldy or smell like mildew, which implies some kind of contamination. Overall, the real problem with expired dabs is that they no longer have any kind of effectiveness. Cannabinoids and terpenes break down gradually due to age, and after a certain point, they’ve broken down so much that they lose the properties that we use them for. So, an expired dab will pretty much fail to give provide those effects that you want. Might as well be thrown out then. Besides that, expired dabs have terpenes that can longer deliver any real flavor.

Why is Storage So Crucial Anyway?

Like we said, dabs generally have a shelf life of 6 months. Still, the compounds in them can break down even sooner than that if you’re not storing them properly. Exposure to elements like air, light, heat and humidity can all speed up the breaking down process of cannabinoids and terpenes, which means that even if you haven’t had your concentrates for a long time, they can lose all their potency and need to be replaced. Even the freshest dabs can degrade in weeks if you’re not really taking care of them when they’re not in use. The good news is that keeping them fresh is actually really easy, by just following these storage tips below.

Find a Dark Area

Your dabs should be kept away from light, since light can make the compounds break down prematurely. This means avoiding sunny windowsills and areas where a bright light is shining down. Luckily, there are plenty of dark spaces in your home that do just fine.

Keep Your Dabs Cool

Your dabs should never get too warm, because this can cause their cannabinoids and terpenes to degrade very quickly. This doesn’t mean that you should keep them in the refrigerator, because that can change their texture for the worse. Keep them in a cool area away from heat sources.

Keep Your Dabs Dry

Concentrates should never be kept in a moist or humid environment, period. This can make them moldy, and besides that, it can cause the compounds to destabilize very quickly. This means that you shouldn’t keep your dabs in a bathroom, where the shower is always causing the room to get humid. The same goes for a kitchen area by the stove. Overall, find a dark, dry and cool place like a closet, cabinet or drawer.

Keep Your Dabs Indoors

Your dabs should be kept inside, and not on a porch or deck, in a car or in a shed or garage that isn’t climate-controlled. The outside environment sees too many fluctuations in temperature, moisture and light to keep your dabs stable. Never leave your dabs in a car, especially on a hot day, since they can completely melt and lose their potency at the same time. The obvious exception is when you’re traveling, of course, and need to transport your concentrates from one place to another.

An Airtight Seal is Imperative

It’s absolutely important to make sure that your dabs are kept in some type of airtight seal at all times, except when in use. If your dabs are exposed to oxygen, the compounds will break down quickly, and besides that, they’ll be at risk of drying out and losing their ability to properly vaporize. If you can, keep your dabs in a designated jar or resealable bag.

Bottom Line: Keep Your Dabs Fresh and Flavorful

As long as you keep your dabs in a dark, dry, and cool place, and make sure to seal them tight, then you’ll be able to enjoy them for several months at a time. Nobody wants expired dabs on their hands, so make sure to follow these tips above to savor them to their fullest potential. Now you can really get your vape or smoke dab on for hours on end, for the months ahead.