Coconut oil has already proven its benefits in one's physical health or skin's health.

Coconut oil can be used as cooking oil and skincare. However, many people do not know that by storing it improperly, coconut oil can go rancid very quickly.

To avoid this common mistake, here are ways you can do to prolong the shelf life of your most beloved oil.

The good thing about coconut oil is it does not need any special equipment to be stored properly. It can be based on your own preference, whether you want it stored with the rest of the pantry products or want it chilled.

According to Public Goods, keeping it refrigerated can solidify it in a curdled form, allowing the coconut oil to stay fresh for as long as possible.

If you're worried about its solidified form, making it harder for you to use, coconut oil has a melting point of 76 degrees Fahrenheit. That makes it easy to liquify around room temperature. 

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If you apply your coconut oil as a moisturizer, hair mask, or any other beauty purpose, it is often better stored at room temperature.

In that way, the oil will stay liquified or semi-liquified, making it easier to spread. However, it is advised to put your coconut oil in an airtight container to keep its freshness as long as possible. 

Containers

Coconut oil is sold in many forms of packaging that depends on the manufacturer's intends.

Buying your coconut oil in a glass bottle might be safer as it will ensure that chemicals from the plastic would not be mixed with the product.

Also, keeping it in a dark glass container will help maintain its freshness as it will be less impacted by the light. However, if you happen to purchase your coconut oil with a BPA-free plastic container, you might want to transfer it to a darker glass to improve protection.

It is advisable to store your coconut oil in any dark, dry place in your home. These can be in a kitchen pantry, cupboard, along with your other beauty supplies.

However, do not keep your coconut oil in the bathroom as the moisture in the air and changing temperatures can negatively affect the coconut oil.

Placing your coconut oil where it would be exposed to direct sunlight may bring more harm than good to your coconut oil.

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Oxygen can also make your coconut oil go rancid quicker. You can find a jar that seals tightly to keep your coconut oil fresh and avoid it going bad prematurely.

How to Know If It Has Gone Bad?

Coconut oil has its expiration date. To check if you have had your oil for a long time, here are signs to determine when coconut oil has already gone bad.

If your coconut oil had any discoloration and mold with unusual odor and flavor, your oil might have already expired.