Jessica Tyson
13/05/2025 • 5 min read
E-liquids don’t last forever. Just like food or medicine, vape juice has a shelf life, and using it beyond that point can affect flavour, performance, and safety.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to read vape expiry dates, the signs your e-liquid may have gone off, and how to store it properly.
✔ Yes – all e-liquids come with a “best before” date, usually around 12 to 24 months from the manufacturing date.
✔ After this time, the nicotine can degrade, and the flavour may become muted or altered.
Note: Expired e-liquid isn’t necessarily dangerous, but it’s usually not enjoyable or effective.
Look for one of the following on your bottle:
Most bottles state "Best before 24 months", particularly on nicotine-free shortfills.
| Sign | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Colour is very dark | Nicotine oxidised or e-liquid aged |
| Strange smell | Flavouring has degraded |
| Harsh or bitter taste | PG or nicotine has broken down |
| Liquid separation | Not mixed properly – may need shaking or disposal |
If it smells burnt, musty or soapy – don’t use it.
✔ Yes – nicotine is more sensitive to light, heat and air.
✔ That’s why nic salt and freebase nicotine e-liquids should always be used within 12–18 months.
| Juice 5000 Nic Salt – Gummy Bear | Elfliq Nic Salt – Cherry Cola |
|---|---|
 |  |
| Familiar taste of your favourite sweets | Juicy cherry and fizzy cola combine for a delightful vaping experience |
| Buy now | Buy now |
Once you've purchased your favourite e-liquids it's vital to store them correctly, as this will increase shelf life, save you money and ensure that the flavour remains fresh, giving you the best vape experience possible.
✔ Store bottles in a cool, dark place, like a drawer or cupboard.
✔ Keep lids tightly closed to avoid oxygen exposure.
✔ Avoid direct sunlight or temperatures over 25°C.
✔ Shake bottles before use if they’ve sat for a while.
✗ DON’T store near radiators or windowsills.
✗ DON’T keep in your car glovebox in summer.
✔ Technically yes, but you may not enjoy the taste or feel the same nicotine hit.
✔ If you notice an off smell, colour, or taste, it’s best to dispose of it safely.
📌 Never vape e-liquid if you’re unsure of its safety or origin.
Explore our full range of nic salts and shortfills for top-quality flavours and performance.
