Table of Contents
Storing Your E-Liquids
E-liquids are the bread and butter of vaping - without them, we wouldn't be able to get our nicotine fix or enjoy the thousands of tasty flavours available to us.
"But Ecigone!" I hear you ask. How do I store my favourite e-liquids properly?" Well, it's a good job you're here because we'll tell you exactly what to do and what not to do to keep your vape juices in tip-top shape.
Why Should You Store Your Vape Juices Correctly?
Like every other product, vape juices have a Best Before End date (1-2 years unopened and 6-12 months once opened)—they don't last forever. Once this date has passed, the likelihood of your vape juice losing its flavour and strength is inevitable. Up until this point, however, there are certain things you can do to keep your vape juice as fresh as possible and prevent any strange smells and flavours from contaminating it.
The Benefits of Storing Your Vape Juice Correctly
By storing your vape juices correctly, you can:
Maintain nicotine quality
Maintain flavour strength
Stop it's colour from changing
Reduce the risk of contamination
Prevent adverse chemical reaction
While your vape juice will eventually go out of date, properly storing it can keep it as fresh and tasty as the day you opened it. Failing to do so can result in extra money spent to replace it, so it's in your best interest to look after your e-juice!
What's In My Vape Juice?
First, let's examine your vape juices. They primarily comprise three components: PG and VG, nicotine, and flavouring. Don't worry—we'll explain what all that means in a second!
PG & VG
PG (Propylene Glycol) and VG (Vegetable Glycerine) are odourless liquids that produce vapour when heated. The ratio of each is paramount to the type of vaping experience you're after. PG creates the 'throat hit' that you'd find in traditional cigarettes, while VG produces the famous vapour clouds commonly associated with vaping.
Most vape juices have a 50VG/50PG ratio, which is great for pod kits and for those seeking an experience closer to smoking. Meanwhile, 70VG/30PG ratio vape juices are better suited to high-power devices like sub-ohm kits and produce high-density vapour clouds thanks to the higher VG content. What you choose is entirely up to personal preference.
Nicotine
Nicotine is what provides that familiar kick or rush. Vape juices come in varying nicotine strengths, so vapers can choose one that suits their needs, be it a substantial hit or a light buzz.
Flavourings
Flavourings give your vape juices their, well, flavour! From classic tobacco and mint to fruity blends and delicious dessert flavours, there are thousands of different combinations for you to experiment with.
Improper Storage of E-Liquids
Poorly storing vape juices can lead to funny tastes and spoilage, so it's important to avoid these things when storing them.
Heat and Light: Constant exposure to sunlight and warm temperatures can diminish the flavour, degrading it and changing it over time, decreasing the quality of your vaping experience.
Air & Contamination: Exposing your e-liquid to the air for long periods can cause it to oxidise and once again lose its flavour. Keeping them in a clean environment is also essential to avoid contamination and stop the vape juices from spoiling.
How to Safely Store Your E-Liquids
Now that you do not know what to do, you should ensure your e-liquids are correctly and safely stored for maximum enjoyment.
Store them in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight to avoid flavour degradation and spoiling.
Keep your vape juices in a secure location away from children and pets. While they are safe to consume when vaporised, ingesting them in their liquid form is very toxic.
Keep your e-juices stored upright. This reduces the risk of leaking and ensures the seal remains intact, reducing the chances of air exposure.
Retaining the Flavour of Your Vape Juices
On a similar note, preserving the flavour of your vape juices is equally essential. After all, e-liquids would be pretty dull without their flavours! Here are some tips to help you have the best flavour experience while vaping.
Avoid frequently opening your bottle. Too much exposure to air can change the flavour, so only open the bottle when you need to refill.
E-liquids have a pretty long shelf life, but it's still important to use them within a reasonable time frame, say a few months—fresh vape juices have the most potent flavour.
Give the bottle a gentle shake to mix up the components to ensure the flavour stays consistent.
FAQs
1. How can tell if my vape juices are still good to use after being stored for a while?
Give the bottle a once over - if the colour has darkened then the vape juice might be past its prime. Give it a smell too - if it smells weird or not as potent as you remember, it may be time to invest in a fresh bottle.
2. How long do e-liquids last?
Typically e-liquids have a shelf life of around 1-2 years - if stored correctly of course. However, once opened, it's good practice to use them within a month or two of opening for the best taste.
3. Does nicotine strength degrade over time?
The long and short of it is, yes, nicotine strength will degrade over time - especially with constant exposure to the air and sunlight. So if you're coming back to an e-liquid after storing it for a while, it may not pack as much of a punch as you remember.
4. Is it safe to vape an E-liquid past its expiration date?
Vaping an e-liquid past its expiration date isn't necessarily harmful, but the experience won't be the greatest! Overtime the components will breakdown, the flavour will diminish and the nicotine strength won't be as potent. So while yes, it is okay, you're far better off picking up a new bottle for the best experience.
5. Can I revive an old vape juice flavour by mixing it with a new one?
For those who love to experiment, there's no harm in it! But bear in mind you won't always get the best flavour, and the concoction may even reduce the potency of the new e-liquid.
