Does Wax Expire? How Long Does Wax Last? Does Wax Go Bad?

Wax doesn't typically have a set expiration date, however over time your concentrates will lose its potency and effectiveness. As time goes on you'll experience things like loss of terpenes, the texture will change, the thc content will degrade and more. With proper storage your extracts can last up to two years! This is why the way you store your concentrates is so important!

How Long Does Wax Last?

The lifespan of your concentrate depends on a lot of different factors that mainly boil down to the way it's stored and treated. Consistently leaving your wax in higher temperatures will slowly start to degrade its delta 9 compounds and turn it into CBN. CBN will produce more of a “sleepy” effect when consumed. This can also happen when your extracts are exposed to oxygen and light, particularly UV rays.

With proper storage, your wax should still be at its highest potency anywhere from one to six months without compromising things like flavor and fragrance. After six months, even with proper storage you will start to notice changes in texture and terpene content.

Without proper storage and exposing your extracts to the elements will result in up to fifty percent thc degradation in just 30 days.

Does Wax Go Bad?

As mentioned before, wax doesn't technically “go bad” however the effects might not be exactly what you were expecting as time goes on. One thing to look out for is contamination.

Yes, your wax can be “contaminated” causing bacterial growth, mold, and mildew which.. I don't even have to explain.. can be detrimental to your health. Bacterial growth is a little less common with concentrates but it's not unheard of, make sure you are using clean tools and don't touch your wax with dirty fingers.

Mold is way more common, particularly if you are storing your wax in humid areas. As soon as too much moisture gets into your wax jar, your extracts are at risk of growing mold. Be mindful and check your concentrate before consumption. Look for any fuzzy spots, anything that looks cloudy, or if it smells off. A bit pungent (in a bad way) or funky is definitely not a good sign.

If you see any of the aforementioned signs of mold, you should probably throw it away because it isn't safe to use!

Signs that Your Wax is Getting Old or Gone Bad

There will be sure signs that your wax is getting old, you'll be able to tell by its appearance. Your wax will get darker in color, from a bright amber to a darker brown color. The texture and consistency might get drier or crystallized, and of course the smell and taste of your wax will be more dulled out because of the loss of terpenes. Additionally the effects will be weaker.

As far as “wax that has gone bad”, I would look for sure signs of mold which was mentioned above. Any fuzzy or cloudy sections, or if it smells rancid its best to just toss it out!

Best Way To Store Your Wax Concentrates

For short term storage we suggest keeping your wax inside of a glass or a silicone jar. Make sure whichever storage container material you decide to go with, it provides an airtight seal to keep oxygen exposure to a minimum. Try your best to store your concentrate in a cool dark area, you can refrigerate them if you feel like it's necessary. Just allow your wax to get back down to room temperature before taking a dab to avoid thermal shock. Sudden temperature changes can cause your quartz bangers to crack, break, or shatter!

For long term storage consider an airtight glass jar, glass will not compromise the flavor or aroma of your wax making it a better option for long term storage. If you are planning on storing your extracts for more than 12 months, you can look into vacuum sealed storage containers that hold up in the freezer!

Read more about Proper Dab Storage Here!

How to Keep My Wax Fresher Longer

The only way to keep your wax fresh for long periods of time is by avoiding high temperatures, too much light, keeping your concentrates in an airtight container, and avoiding moisture.

When it comes to distillate, which you would most likely find in a 510 thread cart or a wax disposable, you should always store them in an upright position. Keep them at room temperature, avoid leaving them in your car to keep them at peak potency.

You do not have to store pens in your refrigerator, room temperature should be fine. Pens usually have a reservoir that is completely sealed so oxygen, contaminants, and moisture shouldn't be an issue. Only UV light and excessive heat pose a risk to THC degradation!

What Happens if You Dab with Old Wax?

As long as your wax is just old and free of any sort of mold, you should be totally fine. Your dabs might feel a bit harsher and overall your experience will be a little less potent. The flavors will obviously not be the absolute best, but it'll still get the job done!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can Dabs Lose Their Potency?

• Wax / Dabs can and will lose their potency over time regardless of proper storage techniques. To extend the lifespan of your concentrates is best to properly store them based on your expected storage time frame, short term and long term storage requirements are different!

Is it Safe to Smoke 1 Year Old Wax?

• It sure is! It's completely safe to smoke wax that is a year old, proper dab storage can allow your concentrate to keep its freshness for up to two years. Look for any sure signs of contamination like mold, if you don't see any mold or cloudiness then you should be good to go!

Can I Freeze My Wax without Ruining It?

• You can surely freeze your wax without ruining it, however make sure you are using the proper storage containers. To freeze your wax for longer periods of time, you might want to use a vacuum seal bag or storage container to protect your concentrate from moisture, oxygen, and to keep the texture consistent!

Why Does My Wax Turn Dark?

• Wax will get darker over time, your wax might've been a bright clear amber color and now it's more of a darker brown color. The reason why this happens is degradation of THC which then converts into CBN. CBN has a darker color than THC, as the two mix you'll see more of a darker appearance of your concentrate. As other compounds of your extract get oxidized and degrade, like terpenes, the taste and scent of your extracts will become more dull also adding to a darker appearance!
• To slow down this process make sure your concentrate is properly stored in an airtight container, away from light, and in a cooler environment!