BEST STORAGE PRACTICES
Exposing your dried herbs to air, drastic temperature changes, sunlight, or moisture can damage them. In order to ensure your dried herbs are preserved for as long as possible, keep your herbs away from sunlight and heat, and keep them in jars with tightened lids to to prevent moisture.
Proper Containers
If you’ve purchased herbs that came in paper or plastic bags, or you’ve grown and dried your own herbs, you’ll want to put them in glass jars that have airtight lids. Be sure the jars are are cleaned then thoroughly dried. Avoid any exposure to moisture - this can include a wet spoon.
Labeling Your Containers
Due to similarities, it can be difficult to tell certain herbs apart after they’ve been dried. Even if you can recognize them by smell, having your jars properly labeled can help you find the right herbs fast and keep your apothecary organized. It’s important to date your herbs as well, so you can know when they are expired and ready to be composted.
Storing Your Herbs
The best place to keep your dried herbs are in cool dark areas. This can include closets, pantries, cupboards, or special herb drawers in your kitchen. Avoid cupboards above your stove to keep them your herbs from potentially overheating. In addition, it’s not recommended to keep them in garages or unfinished basements where moisture can ruin your herbs as well. Always keep your herbs in dark spaces, away from sunlight, so your herbs keep their quality.