Cannabis concentrates can last up to several months if stored properly. Proper storage means avoiding the conditions that cause cannabis products to break down over time, which include light, heat, and moisture.

As cannabis products are exposed to air, heat, and humidity, active compounds like THC break down into less potent cannabinoids. The flavor and aroma of concentrates can also weaken over time, if not properly stored. To extend the life of your shatter and wax, here are the best ways to store cannabis concentrates:

Short-term: place in silicone container

The more size appropriate, the better. As mentioned above, light, air, and heat can all lower the quality of your concentrates. When storing concentrates short-term, it’s best to wrap shatters and waxes in parchment paper place them in a small silicone container with as little air space as possible.

Keep this container in a cool and dark place. This is a great option for storing your concentrates for a week or so as you use them. The more you open the container, the harder and more harsh your concentrates are likely to become and the less fragrant.

It’s good to keep in mind that crystally waxes are less stable than glass-like shatter, and may go bad more quickly when exposed to light, heat, and air.

Long-term: parchment paper and an airtight container

Hoping to keep your wax or shatter fresh for a little longer? Separating out portions and wrapping them in parchment paper is a great first step. Many people then place the parchment paper in plastic freezer bags and then place the wrapped product in a size-appropriate mason jar or another air-tight container.

A storage location similar to a root cellar would be a great place to keep concentrates. For longer-term storage, the ideal location is somewhere with stable temperature and humidity that is a little cooler than room temperature.

If your concentrate is too sticky or fluid for parchment paper, investing in a size-appropriate and sealed or airtight glass jar is a nice option. The goal is to leave as little room for air as possible. Store in a cool and dark place.

What about freezing?

Many people store their concentrates in the freezer. While freezing can make your product a little easier to handle, there are some very good reasons not to freeze your concentrates. Freezing potentially exposes your oil to excess humidity, which can lower the quality of your concentrate. Concentrates that develop moisture will crackle when consumed and provide a harsh experience.

If you decide to freeze, placing your concentrate in a air-sealed and size-appropriate container is vital. If not sealed properly, condensation can develop on the wax or oil.

Wrapping the product in parchment paper, placing it in a freezer bag or vacuum-sealing, then placing the concentrate in a size-appropriate mason jar is a good way to go. Prior to opening the product, let the concentrate thaw and watch for moisture development.

Tinctures

Alcohol-based cannabis tinctures can be stored in the refrigerator or a cellar in a sterilized glass dropper bottle for extended periods of time. If sealed and air-tight, tinctures can store for over six months. Though, a tincture may lose potency if opened and exposed to air consistently over time. If the tincture contains glycerin or other additives, the shelf-life of the tincture decreases significantly.