Here are some of the best essential oil storage ideas to keep your scents organized and your home smelling fresh!
I love essential oils! They make your house smell great and promote relaxation and physical well-being. But it’s a huge challenge to keep your essential oils organized and easy to access. In this blog post, I’ll give you the best essential oil storage ideas to keep your collection from getting out of hand. I’ll also give you some tips to ensure your essential oil collection remains as fresh and potent as the first time you used it.
Essential Oil Storage Ideas
Essential Oil Storage Box
One of my favorite essential oil storage ideas is the essential oil storage box. Typically made from wood, these boxes offer a great way to keep your oils organized in one place. Look for containers with adjustable dividers to accommodate bottles of different sizes, from the standard 10-15 ml bottles to larger ones or even essential oil roller bottles. A wooden box protects your oils from sunlight and adds a decorative touch to your living room or any space where you choose to display your collection.
Spice Rack and Drawer Organizer
For those who love a good DIY project, transforming a spice rack or a drawer organizer into an essential oil holder is a great option. Spice racks are perfect for keeping your oils within easy access, especially if you have a small space. A drawer organizer with adjustable dividers can be customized to fit many bottles, ensuring each one sits snugly in its spot, away from direct light and heat sources.
Nail Polish Holder and Essential Oil Bag
Think outside the box—literally. A nail polish holder can be an excellent choice for storing essential oil bottles, especially if you prefer to have them on display. These holders come in different sizes and styles, making finding one that suits your space easy. An essential oil bag with individual pockets for each bottle is a good solution for taking some of your collection with you. This ensures that your favorite oils are always at hand, whether traveling or just moving from one room to another.
Dollar Store Bins and Thrift Store Finds
You don’t have to spend a fortune to find storage solutions for your essential oils collection. Dollar Store plastic bins and containers can be repurposed as essential oil organizers. Look for bins with lids to protect your oils from dust and light. Thrift stores can also be great places to find unique items like vintage wooden boxes or small cabinets that can be a perfect place to store your collection.
Essential Oil Racks and Carrying Cases
If you have an extensive collection of essential oils, investing in a dedicated oil rack or a carrying case might be the best way. These storage systems are designed to hold a significant number of bottles, keeping them in an upright position and away from direct sunlight. Some racks can be mounted on a wall, saving valuable counter space while making a great addition to your room’s decor.
Store Special Oils in the Refrigerator
Remember, some oils, like citrus oils, are more prone to oxidation and may require extra care. Storing these oils in the fridge, in dark bottles with airtight caps, can extend their shelf life. Similarly, carrier oils used with essential oils should be stored properly, as they can go rancid if not kept in cool, dark conditions.
Wooden Storage Boxes and Glass Bottles
Keeping up with the latest trends in essential oils storage can also offer fresh ideas for organizing your collection. Wooden storage boxes have become increasingly popular for their aesthetic appeal. They also provide protection from light and heat. Glass bottles with dropper lids are an excellent option for those who blend their oils, allowing for precise measurements and easy mixing.
17 Tips for Keeping Your Essential Oils in Excellent Condition
Here are some fundamental tips to ensure your oils remain fresh and potent:
1. Keep Away from Direct Sunlight
Store your oils in a dark place to prevent degradation from UV rays, which can alter their composition and effectiveness.
2. Maintain a Cool Temperature
Heat can deteriorate oils, so keep them in a cool spot, away from radiators and sunlight, to preserve their therapeutic properties.
3. Use Dark-Colored Glass Bottles
Dark glass helps block light and protects the oil’s potency. Amber or cobalt blue bottles are ideal choices.
4. Ensure Bottles Are Tightly Sealed
Properly sealing your bottles minimizes exposure to air, preventing oxidation and prolonging the oils’ shelf life.
5. Store in an Upright Position
Keeping bottles upright reduces the risk of leaks, which can compromise the oil’s quality and erode labels or packaging.
6. Organize by Category
Group oils by their type (e.g., citrus, floral, grounding) or usage to simplify finding what you need and to use them more effectively.
7. Label Clearly
Ensure each bottle is clearly labeled with the oil’s name and the date of purchase or opening to track freshness and efficacy.
8. Use Adjustable Dividers
In storage boxes or drawers, adjustable dividers help accommodate various bottle sizes and prevent them from tipping over.
9. Avoid Plastic Containers
Essential oils can degrade certain plastics, leading to contamination. Stick with glass or metal containers for storage.
10. Keep Out of Reach of Children and Pets
Store your oils in a place inaccessible to children and pets to avoid accidental ingestion or spillage.
11. Check for Heat Sources
Avoid storing oils near windows, stoves, or electrical devices that may generate heat, even indirectly.
12. Limit Oxygen Exposure
Minimize the time bottles are open to prevent oxidation. Consider transferring larger quantities to smaller bottles to reduce air space.
13. Rotate Stock
Use older oils first to ensure they maintain their efficacy over time. Regular rotation also helps in reassessing your collection.
14. Use a Dedicated Space
Designate a specific area or piece of furniture for your oils to keep them organized and in one place for easy access.
15. Consider Refrigeration for Citrus Oils
Citrus oils are particularly prone to oxidation. Storing them in the refrigerator can extend their shelf life.
16. Perform Regular Checks
Periodically check your oils for changes in aroma, clarity, or consistency, which could indicate spoilage or degradation.
17. Invest in Quality Storage Solutions
Choose storage solutions specifically designed for essential oils, such as wooden boxes or tiered racks, to ensure they meet the necessary conditions for proper storage.
17 Ways to Store Essential Oils
Here is a quick list of some creative and practical ways to store your essential oils:
1. Wooden Storage Boxes
A classic choice that shields oils from light and adds a decorative touch.
2. Wall Racks or Shelves:
Ideal for keeping oils visible and accessible while saving space.
3. Essential Oil Carrying Cases
Perfect for those who travel with their oils or attend workshops.
4. Drawer Organizers
Utilize compartments to keep each oil upright and in order.
5. Spice Racks
An inventive way to repurpose household items for easy access to oils.
6. Roller Bottle Cases
Specially designed for roller bottles, offering protection and organization.
7. Glass Jars
Group multiple bottles together in a jar for a consolidated storage option.
8. Acrylic Organizers
Clear organizers allow for easy identification and a modern look.
9. Magnetic Boards
A unique method to display and organize oils using magnetic strips.
10. Refrigeration
Specifically for oils that benefit from cooler temperatures, like citrus oils.
11. Bookcases
Repurpose small bookcases to accommodate more extensive collections.
12. Essential Oil Bags
Soft, portable bags with individual pockets for each bottle.
13. Tea Box Organizers
Charming wooden boxes with dividers, perfect for a modest collection.
14. Nail Polish Holders
A clever way to display oils, especially in limited spaces.
15. DIY Pallet Racks
Custom pallet racks can be a fun project for a rustic style.
16. Tiered Cake Stands
Offer a unique and attractive way to display oils.
17. Toolbox or Craft Box
With compartments and sections, these boxes can be easily repurposed for oil storage.
Essential Oil Storage Ideas: Wrap-Up
Organizing your essential oil collection doesn’t have to be a daunting task. From wooden boxes and DIY spice racks to creative solutions like nail polish holders and essential oil bags, there’s a storage option to suit every need and preference. Remember, keeping your oils away from direct sunlight, heat, and air exposure to preserve their therapeutic properties is critical. Finding the perfect storage solution for your oils will help keep your space tidy and ensure your favorite oils are always ready to enhance your well-being whenever needed. Whether you’re a seasoned essential oil lover or just starting your journey, these tips and ideas will help you enjoy your oils for a long time. Happy organizing!