You’ve found the perfect strain, paid for top-shelf flower, and now it’s sitting in a plastic baggie on your desk. Don’t do this. Proper cannabis storage is one of the most overlooked aspects of the cannabis experience — and it directly affects potency, flavor, and shelf life. Here’s everything you need to know to keep your flower at its best.
Why Storage Matters
Cannabis degrades through four primary pathways:
- Light — UV rays break down THC into CBN (a less potent cannabinoid)
- Heat — Accelerates terpene evaporation and cannabinoid degradation
- Oxygen — Oxidation degrades potency over time
- Humidity — Too dry = crumbly, harsh flower; too moist = mold risk
Control these four factors and your cannabis will remain fresh for months.
The Ideal Storage Conditions
Temperature: Under 70°F (21°C)
Room temperature is generally fine, but avoid storing cannabis near heat sources like radiators, stoves, or sunny windowsills. Extreme heat (above 85°F) promotes mold growth and accelerates terpene loss. Avoid the refrigerator — the frequent temperature changes and moisture can degrade your flower.
Humidity: 55–65% RH
This is the sweet spot. Below 55% relative humidity and your flower becomes dry and harsh. Above 65% and you risk mold — particularly devastating for larger quantities. Boveda or Integra packs are inexpensive humidity-control inserts that maintain ideal RH inside your storage container automatically.
Light: Total Darkness
Store cannabis in opaque or UV-blocking containers kept away from direct light. Amber glass jars with UV protection are ideal. Clear containers should be stored in a dark drawer or cabinet.
Oxygen: Minimal Exposure
Use airtight containers and avoid opening them more than necessary. Some serious enthusiasts use vacuum-seal containers to further minimize oxygen exposure.
Best Storage Containers
- Glass mason jars — The gold standard. Airtight, odor-proof, non-porous (won’t absorb terpenes like plastic). Store in a dark location.
- Dedicated cannabis storage boxes — Often come with built-in humidity controls and UV-blocking properties
- Titanium containers — Extremely durable, airtight, odor-proof
Avoid: Plastic bags (static degrades trichomes), aluminum foil (not airtight), tobacco humidors (cedar oils interfere with cannabis flavor).
How Long Does Cannabis Stay Fresh?
Properly stored cannabis maintains peak quality for approximately 6 months to 1 year. After that, THC gradually converts to CBN and terpenes continue to dissipate. The flower remains safe to consume but will be noticeably less potent and flavorful.
Shop Fresh, Lab-Tested Cannabis at Mind35
Every product at Mind35 is properly stored and handled before it reaches you. Browse our premium cannabis flower and gear and accessories including storage solutions. Discreet nationwide shipping — free on orders over $200.