Coffee Beans
How to Store Coffee Beans
Air, light, heat and moisture — in that order
By Coffee In Cup Editorial TeamPublished 27 January 2026Updated 9 February 20264 min read
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Coffee stales because of oxygen. Everything else is secondary.
What to do
Keep beans whole, in an airtight opaque container, at room temperature, away from the hob.
- Buy smaller bags more often
- Use a one-way valve bag or sealed canister
- Grind only what you are about to brew
The fridge problem
A fridge is humid and full of odours, and condensation forms every time you take the beans out. Freezing in sealed portions is fine; refrigerating is not.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do beans last once opened?+
Aim to finish an opened bag within two to three weeks.
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