You’re so excited to have a new batch of cannabis — but now that you have it, how do you maintain its quality?
The key to preserving cannabis lies in understanding how cannabis degrades and the proper storage methods.
Enhance your cannabis experience by learning how to store your cannabis correctly with our comprehensive guide below.
Why Do You Need To Store Your Cannabis Properly?
Once you find your favorite strain of cannabis, you’ll want to keep it fresh and ready for your next smoking session.
The key to keeping cannabis fresh is understanding how cannabis degrades and combating that with proper storage.
As cannabis degrades, THC converts to CBN, which reduces the potency and alters the consumption experience.
This results in a less intense psychoactive effect and a more sedative experience.
Terpenes also rapidly degrade when cannabis isn’t properly stored, reducing the aroma and flavor and limiting some therapeutic properties.
Leaving cannabis out in the open may speed up this degradation.
Certain environmental conditions contribute to the reduced quality of your cannabis products and alter your experience.
Proper storage can slow degradation and ensure your cannabis has the longest possible shelf life.
The Four Factors That Affect Cannabis Quality
So, now that we’ve covered a bit about improper cannabis storage, let’s discuss four major factors that reduce the quality of cannabis.
Air
Air exposure can significantly degrade cannabis over time, affecting factors like potency and flavor.
When cannabis is exposed to air, oxidation occurs, leading to the breakdown of cannabinoids like THC and CBD.
Air can also cause buds to dry out over time, resulting in a loss of flavor and a harsher smoke experience.
It’s crucial to store cannabis in airtight containers such as glass jars or vacuum-sealed bags to minimize air contact.
Heat
Heat is another significant factor in the degradation of cannabis, accelerating the breakdown of its essential compounds and diminishing its quality over time.
Elevated temperatures can degrade terpenes and cannabinoids, reducing the potency, flavor, and quality of cannabis.
Experts recommend storing cannabis in a controlled environment, with temperatures ideally around 60 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
Humidity
Humidity plays a crucial role in preserving the quality of cannabis, and improper levels can lead to a range of issues.
Excessive humidity can create a damp environment that promotes mold and mildew growth.
On the other hand, too little humidity can cause your cannabis to dry out and result in a harsher smoking experience.
To maintain optimal conditions, experts recommend keeping your cannabis in an environment with no more than 59% and 63% relative humidity.
You can use a hygrometer to ensure the best humidity levels. Use airtight containers to keep moisture away from your cannabis.
Light
Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light can significantly degrade cannabis compounds as well.
Both sunlight and artificial light can break down cannabinoids like THC and CBD, reducing potency and causing conversion into other compounds.
To preserve the quality of your cannabis, it’s important to store it in a dark environment, away from direct light.
Opt for opaque or dark-colored containers, such as tinted glass jars, to shield your cannabis from light exposure.
What is the best humidity to store cannabis?
Experts recommend storing your cannabis in an environment with relative humidity between 59% and 63%.
This range helps prevent mold and mildew growth while avoiding excessive dryness.
What is the best temperature to store cannabis?
Experts recommend storing cannabis in a range of 60 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit to preserve quality and potency.
This temperature range helps prevent accelerated degradation, keeping your cannabis fresh and optimal over time.
Cannabis Storage Requirements in the State of New Jersey
There are also legal requirements and safety considerations when it comes to cannabis storage.
Under state law, cannabis, and cannabis products purchased at a licensed dispensary in New Jersey must be in resealable, child-resistant packaging.
State guidelines also recommend locking your cannabis away, if possible, and always ensuring it’s out of a child’s reach.
If possible, you’ll also want to keep your cannabis clearly labeled to avoid any accidental ingestion.
The Best Products For Storing Cannabis
Glass Containers
Glass containers are a good option for storing cannabis because they’re airtight.
They also offer good protection from light if tinted or stored in a dark place—essential to preserve the terpenes and cannabinoids in your flower.
Ensure the container has an airtight seal to maintain the potency and flavor.
Vacuum Sealed Bags
Vacuum-sealed bags offer an airtight solution that keeps cannabis fresh for a whole lot longer than Ziplock bags, etc.
They minimize air exposure, which, as we mentioned, degrades THC levels in cannabis.
Cannabis Humidors
Cannabis humidors are specially designed storage containers for optimal humidity levels and preserving the freshness and quality of cannabis.
Unlike tobacco humidors, cannabis humidors are altered to match the appropriate humidity level for cannabis.
They also come with airtight seals and hygrometers to monitor humidity levels. If you’re looking for long-term storage, this is the right solution.
Humidity Packs
Humidity packs are an excellent option if you’re looking to control moisture levels within your storage container.
You can keep your humidity levels at or around 62% with this storage option—the sweet spot for cannabis.
They also prevent it from drying out, ensuring the potency is maintained long-term.
Can you use metal containers to store cannabis?
Some people like metal containers for storing cannabis. However, if you go that route, make sure the one you choose is airtight and in exceptional condition.
Dos and Don’ts of Cannabis Storage
Don’ts
Don’t Use Plastic Baggies
Gone are the days when plastic baggies would suffice for your cannabis.
If temperatures are too high, your cannabis will become brittle and nearly useless.
Don’t Put Your Weed in the Fridge
Storing your cannabis for a reasonable amount of time and putting it in the fridge is not a good idea.
Refrigerators have too low of a temperature for proper cannabis storage.
Also, the humidity levels fluctuate significantly in the refrigerator, so it is not a good storage option.
Don’t Mix Different Strains in the Same Container
Cannabis contains terpenes, and terpene profiles change depending on the strain.
To maintain the aroma and flavor of your cannabis strains, store them separately in airtight containers.
Dos
Do Label Containers
Keep track of what you purchased and when by labeling your containers.
Reusable glass containers are great for this purpose.
Mark the date and time purchased and the strain type to ensure you’re always getting the best cannabis experience.
Do Consider A Safety Lock
If you have pets or children, a safety lock on your cannabis storage containers or area is a great idea.
This prevents accidental ingestion, especially if you’re storing cannabis edibles.
Do Invest in UV Protected Glass Containers
Make sure the glass containers you’re using are UV protected, and as an added layer of protection, place them in a cool, dark place for long-term storage.
Considerations For Storing Different Types of Cannabis
How to Store Flower and Prerolls
Store your flower and prerolls in airtight containers made of glass or high-quality plastic.
Glass jars with airtight seals are effective at preserving freshness.
Avoid storing prerolls in environments where they might be crushed or damaged; instead, opt for a rigid, protective case if they need to be transported.
How to Store Edibles
Just like flower, edibles should be stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness since edibles can come in various forms, including gummies, chocolates, and baked goods.
Consider refrigeration for items that may spoil, but be sure to read the label of the edibles before deciding on storage options.
How to Store Concentrates
Concentrates, like waxes, shatters, and oils, require much more forethought regarding storage.
Non-stick, airtight containers are best for storing concentrates. Keep them cool and away from direct light to maintain potency.
Consider storing your concentrate in a cool, dark cabinet for longer-term storage.
How to Store Vapes
Most vape pens and cartridges are sensitive to heat and light, which can degrade the concentrate and affect flavor and performance.
Vapes should always be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Keep your vape in its original packaging or in a protective case to avoid accidental damage and to maintain quality.
How to Store Tinctures
Tinctures should be stored in a cool, dark place to maintain their potency and effectiveness.
The alcohol or oil base in tinctures can degrade easily, so you’ll want to ensure the bottle is tightly sealed to prevent evaporation and contamination.
Avoid storing tinctures in places with fluctuating temperatures or high humidity, such as bathrooms or kitchens.
A cabinet or drawer in a stable, cool environment is often the best location.
How to Store Topicals
Topicals, such as creams or balms, should be stored in a cool, dry place to maintain their consistency and efficacy.
Keep them in their original containers with tight-fitting lids to protect them from air and contaminants.
Avoid exposing topicals to direct sunlight or high temperatures, as these conditions can alter their texture and effectiveness.
Final Thoughts
Storing cannabis correctly is crucial for maintaining the quality, potency, and freshness of cannabis.
Proper storage helps preserve the cannabinoids and terpenes found within your products.
By keeping cannabis in an airtight container, away from direct lighting, humidity, and extreme temperatures.
Whether you’re storing flower, concentrates, or edibles, investing in the proper storage containers is well worth it.
Follow the best practices we’ve outlined here, and your cannabis will last as long as you want it to.
