Most cannabis enthusiasts pride themselves on their various toolkits. They have that cutting-edge grinder that they received years ago as a gift. They have various bespoke rolling papers, rolling trays, pipes, vapes, ashtrays, lighters, decarboxylators, etc., that they proudly display when it’s time to smoke.
But what about storage? Too often, cannabis users overlook correct storage, leaving their stash vulnerable to cannabinoid degradation, desiccation, mold, and other costly issues. If you want to preserve your cannabis for longer—shielding its tasty terpenes and protecting its THC/CBD content—consider the five must-have items below.
Airtight Glass Jars or Stainless Steel Containers
Airtight containers are a fundamental facet of your cannabis storage toolkit. Glass is naturally antistatic and nonreactive, which helps maintain cannabis freshness by preventing chemical reactions and minimizing contamination. Meanwhile, stainless steel is prized for its durability, opacity, impact resistance, and antibacterial properties. Some people even swear by Mylar or high-barrier, multi-layer polymer bags.
The bottom line is that your container needs to be airtight. Airflow and oxygenation can quickly degrade cannabinoids, resulting in a severely shortened shelf life.
Humidity Control Packs
Airflow is one component of the storage equation. However, an even more consequential component is humidity.
Cannabis requires a precise, non-fluctuating RH (relative humidity) to remain at its peak. If the RH is too low (i.e., in a dry environment), the weed will dry out, losing its characteristic terpenes and producing a harsh smoke. Meanwhile, cannabis in high-RH environments runs the risk of spoilage and mold growth.
Thankfully, it’s easy to dial in humidity with a simple tool: Boveda 2-way humidity control packs. These small, affordable packs maintain an optimal RH between 58-62% to prevent your stash from drying out or becoming too moist. Pop the pack inside your airtight container along with your cannabis, and replace it every three months to avoid a gap in your humidity control coverage.
A Label Maker
Airtight containers and humidity control solutions are the big ones. Now, let’s move on to a few must-have tools that will level up your storage system.
The first is a simple label maker, a handy tool for keeping your cannabis organized. Use it to label different strains, types of products, and their respective THC/CBD levels, ensuring easy identification and tracking.
A Portable Electronic Scale
Next, consider a portable electronic scale. For those who want to measure their cannabis accurately for dosing or sharing, a portable scale ensures you have the right amounts every time.
Plus, a scale can help you keep track of your inventory to determine when it’s time to re-buy. Use your label maker above to make notes about the remaining stash weight in each container.
A Cannabis Storage App
Finally, consider using an app designed for cannabis enthusiasts to track your stash, monitor freshness, and manage inventory. Some apps allow you to input strain information, effects, and consumption notes. You can also make detailed notes about when you added your Boveda pack so that you always maintain optimal humidity and freshness.
These five, straightforward tools help you extend your stash’s shelf-life, prevent spoilage, and ensure a flavorful, rich-burning smoke every time.
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