How To Store Weed

Unless you plan on smoking your bud all at once, you’re going to have to store it at some point. In order to preserve the potency, flavor, and freshness of your weed over time, learning proper methods for weed storage is essential. Luckily, at SMOKEA we have expert-backed tips to teach you how to store weed properly for the best results possible. 

Why Proper Weed Storage Matters

Environmental factors such as direct sunlight and the flow of oxygen can degrade the quality of your weed. In addition, storing weed at very low or high temperatures can wreak havoc on your weed. Too low of a temperature slows down the decarboxylation process, which is what gets you high from cannabis. Too high of a temperature can cause your herb to become brittle over time.

Consider humidity as well. Too much humidity makes your herb more susceptible to developing mold and mildew. Too little humidity can dry out your weed and make it less effective when it comes time to smoke a bowl. 

Although weed doesn’t last forever even in the best conditions, using good storage methods can help maintain the flavor and potency for far longer.

Key Factors to Consider for Weed Storage

There are four factors to keep in mind when choosing the best method of weed storage for you. 

1. Temperature. To preserve the terpenes and cannabinoids in your weed, you’ll want to store it at a temperature no lower than 50° and no higher than 70° for the best results.

2. Humidity. Relative humidity is a term describing the amount of water vapor in the air compared to the maximum amount possible. Effective weed storage requires around 55-65% relative humidity, which is higher than the average air-conditioned home. 

3. Light. Sunlight and UV rays can cause your weed to rapidly deteriorate before its time. One researcher found that THC degrades by 0.5% for every sixty minutes it is exposed to sunlight. 

4. Airflow. Using airtight containers to keep out the flow of oxygen can help avoid the effects of oxidation.

Best Tools and Products for Storing Weed

There are plenty of options to choose from when storing weed.

Storage boxes that help with odor control are a wonderful choice when you need to be discreet about your cannabis use. 

Air-tight containers such as glass mason jars are another great option. They keep moisture and airflow at bay, and all you need to do is ensure it doesn’t become exposed to sunlight or excessive heat. 

If the proper amount of humidity is a concern in your storage location, Boveda packs have got you covered. Just place a pack with your cannabis in an airtight container and it gets to work immediately, keeping the humidity levels just right for up to three months of storage. 

Depending on your needs, you might want to consider non-traditional methods of storing such as non-stick silicone products or vacuum-sealed bags.

Common Weed Storage Mistakes to Avoid

Even if you aren’t sure how to store weed just yet, it’s helpful to understand how not to store weed. Be sure to avoid these common pitfalls.

Using Plastic Bags or Containers

Plastic bags and containers may be convenient, but they’re not the best option for storing weed, especially over an extended period of time. Plastic is porous, and using it for weed storage can cause your weed to dry out prematurely, risking its potency.

Storing Weed in the Freezer or Refrigerator 

While it might seem like a good idea to refrigerate or freeze your weed to preserve freshness as you might do with food, the cold environment can actually harm your herb. Exposure to temperatures lower than recommended for storage can cause the cannabinoids to break down and your weed may become brittle, leading to a less than pleasant smoking experience. 

In addition, freezing or refrigerating your weed exposes it to moisture, putting it at risk for mold growth.

Leaving Weed In Sunlight or Near Heat Sources

Heat and sunlight are some of the biggest adversaries of cannabis potency. Exposure to these two elements can lead to significant depletion of THC in your weed. Be sure to avoid storing your weed in your car, by a window, or in an area of your home that gets particularly warm.

Overlooking Humidity Levels

Storing weed with little regard for the level of humidity in the environment can lead to less than ideal cannabis when you get around to smoking it. Cannabis generally needs more humidity in the environment than can be found in the average home, but overcompensating by creating an environment that is too humid can cause more harm than good, so it’s important to regularly keep an eye on your stored weed to ensure that the storing conditions are ideal.

Long-Term Weed Storage Tips

If you know that you won’t be getting to your weed anytime soon, you might want to consider vacuum-sealing it and placing it in a cold, dark space until you’re ready to use it. Vacuum-sealing prevents moisture from getting in. Plus, it eliminates airflow which protects the weed from degrading.

No matter what method you choose for long-term storage, it’s important to frequently monitor your weed for signs of degradation and ensure that you use the oldest weed first when it’s time to get into your stash.

FAQs About Weed Storage

Here are a few commonly asked questions about weed storage along with helpful answers to steer you in the right direction.

Can I Store Weed With Other Herbs?

Different herbs have different best practices for storage, so it’s recommended to avoid storing herbs together if at all possible.

How Can I Tell if My Weed Has Gone Bad?

The best way to tell that weed has gone bad is through using your senses. 

First, check for mold. Mold might look fuzzy, dusty, or simply dirty, so be on the lookout for any changes to the appearance of your cannabis. 

Second, give it a smell test. Typically, cannabis has an earthy odor, so if you notice a particularly unpleasant or musty scent, something might be off.

If it passes both the smell and the appearance test, the next step is to try it for yourself. If you taste anything that seems off to you, discontinue using that weed and dispose of it immediately.

What is the Best Way to Store Weed Concentrates?

Many of the tips for storing flower also apply to weed concentrates, though concentrates are typically easier to store. In general, you should keep concentrates in airtight, non-stick containers and ensure that they’re kept away from direct sunlight, excessive moisture, and extreme temperatures. 

How To Store Weed Effectively

Effective weed storage involves protecting your bud from the potentially disastrous effects of improper temperatures, humidity levels, and too much airflow. The best way to ensure that your weed lasts is to invest in storage methods that will help you get the most out of your weed. At SMOKEA, we know how to store weed for the best results! Shop our curated selection of premium weed storage solutions and keep your stash fresh and potent!

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