Why Storage Matters

You wouldn't leave fine wine in a hot car or coffee beans in direct sunlight. Cannabis deserves the same consideration. Proper storage preserves cannabinoids, protects terpenes, and prevents mold—keeping your product effective and enjoyable for longer.

The Enemies of Fresh Cannabis

Four factors degrade cannabis quality over time:

1. Light

UV rays break down cannabinoids and terpenes. THC converts to CBN (a less potent, more sedating cannabinoid) when exposed to light. This is the single biggest factor in cannabis degradation.

2. Air

Oxygen causes oxidation, which degrades THC and dries out terpenes. Too little air, however, can trap moisture and promote mold.

3. Temperature

Heat accelerates degradation and can dry out your flower. Extreme cold can make trichomes brittle and cause them to break off.

4. Humidity

Too much moisture leads to mold. Too little makes cannabis dry, harsh, and less flavourful. The sweet spot is 55-62% relative humidity.

Best Practices for Flower Storage

Use the Right Container

Best options:

• Glass mason jars with airtight seals
• Purpose-built cannabis containers (like CVault)
• UV-protected glass jars

Avoid:

• Plastic bags (static can pull off trichomes)
• Metal containers (can affect flavour)
• Original packaging long-term (not always airtight)

Control Humidity

Humidity packs (like Boveda or Integra Boost) maintain optimal moisture levels automatically. They're inexpensive and last 2-4 months.

• For storage: Use 62% humidity packs
• For drier preference: Use 58% humidity packs

Find the Right Spot

• Dark: A drawer, cabinet, or closet works well
• Cool: Room temperature (15-21°C / 60-70°F) is ideal
• Stable: Avoid areas with temperature fluctuations

Common mistakes:

• Refrigerator: Temperature and humidity fluctuations promote mold
• Freezer: Makes trichomes brittle; only use for very long-term storage of concentrates
• Near appliances: Heat from electronics degrades quality

Storing Different Products

Edibles

• Follow package instructions (some need refrigeration)
• Keep in original child-resistant packaging
• Check expiration dates—edibles have shorter shelf lives than flower
• Chocolate edibles: Store in cool, dark place to prevent melting

Concentrates

• Shatter: Parchment paper in a cool, dark place
• Wax/budder: Silicone containers, avoid heat
• Live resin/rosin: Refrigerate for long-term storage (let warm to room temp before use)
• Vape cartridges: Store upright, away from heat

Pre-Rolls

• Keep in a doob tube or airtight container
• Add a small humidity pack to the container
• Store upright to prevent uneven burning later

Oils and Tinctures

• Store in original bottles (usually designed to block light)
• Keep in a cool, dark cabinet
• Check expiration dates—carrier oils can go rancid

Signs Your Cannabis Has Degraded

• Harsh smoke: Dried-out terpenes
• Weak effects: THC has converted to CBN
• Musty smell: Possible mold (do not consume)
• Crumbles to dust: Over-dried
• Ammonia smell: Improper curing or storage

How Long Does Cannabis Last?

With proper storage:

• Flower: 6 months to 1 year at peak quality; usable up to 2 years
• Edibles: Follow expiration date (typically 3-6 months)
• Concentrates: 6 months to 1 year; longer if refrigerated
• Vape cartridges: 6 months to 1 year

Quick Storage Checklist

1. Airtight glass container
2. Humidity pack (58-62%)
3. Dark location
4. Cool, stable temperature
5. Away from children and pets

Need Storage Supplies?

At Smokey's, we carry humidity packs, quality storage containers, and other accessories to keep your cannabis at its best. Ask our budtenders for recommendations based on what you're storing.