The Best Ways to Store Your Cannabis Stash | PotGuide
Light
There are many factors that can lead to the degradation of cannabis flower, but light – especially sunlight – is the primary threat. For this reason, it is imperative that cannabis be stored in dark or opaque containers preferably away from a light source altogether. For example, a cool, dark location could be a refrigerator to some, though others advise against this due to its increased moisture content and the threat of mold and mildew.
Air
Another critical factor in long-term cannabis storage is oxygen. Too little oxygen may retain potency but could also raise humidity levels which allows mold to establish. A solution to airtight cannabis storage are jars that seal easily and completely. Wide-mouth canning jars are an effective solution because of their tight seal. When choosing an airtight storage container, be sure to choose the right size for the quantity of flower you want to store. About ¾ full is a good rule of thumb for storage. Even if your container is full to the brim, try not to pack it down, but leave it loose like popcorn to prevent the humidity from rising.
Temperature
High temperatures can cause buds to dry out and terpenes to evaporate, resulting in harsh smoke with an unpleasant flavor. Mold and mildew thrive in temperatures between 78 and 86 degrees, the ideal storage temperature for cannabis must be below this threshold. Likewise, while some people store cannabis in the freezer, but the freezing temperatures can cause the delicate trichomes to burst and lose potency. Therefore, the best place to store cannabis may simply be a drawer, closet, or dark corner. Just as long as it is someplace not accessible to minors under the age of 21 yrs.
Humidity
Moisture won’t degrade the potency of your cannabis, but is an open door for mold and mildew, which will leave your cannabis foul and nearly impossible and dangerous to smoke. So it’s important to keep your buds dry, but not too dry causing terpenes and cannabinoids to degrade. Hence the importance of maintaining proper humidity levels for cannabis storage. The ideal range is between 59 and 63 RH (relative humidity, or the amount of moisture in the air relative to what it can hold). The best and most cost-effective way to do this is with the use of a humidity control solution, like a humidification pod. Humidification pods are reusable two-way humidifying capsules which contain material to absorb or discharge moisture as needed. They keep your cannabis flower at the perfect humidity level for optimum taste and potency. Some pods are magnetic and stick to the inside of a metal lid or can simply be dropped into containers. With proper maintenance, pods can last up to five years.
