The general consensus may be that, when stored correctly, e liquid can last for a long period of time. However, this isn’t always a good thing, as the quality may degrade, oxidisation may take place and nicotine may start to decompose.
 
Your e liquid may not come with an expiry date listed, but if you want to get the most out of e cigarettes and vaping, it’s best not to keep bottles for months on end.
 
Correct Storage Is Essential
When trying to determine how long e liquid will last, you’ll need to consider a number of factors. The two most important factors are light and temperature, both of which heavily impact on the quality of e liquid. When exposed to heat in any form, nicotine and flavouring compounds are affected, and the e juice will lose its strength and its taste.
 
Water-based and alcohol-based flavourings are affected by heat, whether it is by direct sunlight or high temperatures, and for those who use e cigarettes regularly, storing e liquids in your car or any other place where temperatures may soar is a definite no-no. If you leave the cap off an e liquid bottle in a hot environment, you’ll note how fast evaporation takes place, and as e liquids have an organic compound they will also start to decay far faster than if kept in a cooler space.
 
It’s vital to remember that e liquid that has been exposed to air will start oxidising at a far faster rate than a bottle that remains sealed. Opening a bottle and filling e cigarettes cartridges and then storing them for an extended period of time is not recommended.
 
Use Your Liquids Wisely
For new vapers, it’s suggested you buy a few flavours in order to determine which ones you prefer. Rather than buying the biggest bottles you can find, stick to small bottles that can be used up quickly. Leaving bottles of e liquid lying around for ages won’t add to your vaping experience, and as with anything organic, fresher is better.
 
Generally, VG e liquid can be stored for up to two years and VG one and a half years, but this does depend on how it is stored. If your e liquid has changed colour, it has started oxidising, and it's best to throw it away as the flavourings and additives have gone bad. The flavouring is the fastest component to start degrading, and as nicotine starts decomposing when exposed to heat, you’ll want to use your e liquid up long before this happens so that you still enjoy a satisfying vaping experience.