How To Store Coffee Beans

Storing your coffee beans in the right way is something every coffee lover should know how to do.

It is not as simple as just closing up the bag and putting it on the counter. Doing this will leave you with stale and tasteless beans in no time.

So even though it might not be rocket science, there are a few tips and tricks you should have up your sleeves to help you get the most out of your beans.

So keep reading to learn everything you need to know to keep your beans fresh for as long as possible.

• Storing coffee beans in a cool, dry and dark place properly ensures freshness and flavor.
• Consider using airtight or vacuum sealed containers to make your beans last longer.
• Consider putting your beans in the freezer for long term storage.
• Consider factors like temperature, container type, and time frame for optimal storage.

The quick answer is keep the beans in a dry, cool location away from direct sunlight. This way you will maximize the freshness of your beans.

Now let’s look at what you should do if you have an opened or unopened bag.

Even though they both follow the same general rules of storage, there are some key differences between the two. 

Unopened bags of coffee beans should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and strong odors. 

A drawer or pantry works well. Just make sure that it is not close to your dishwasher, fridge, hot-water line or any other heatsource.

Keeping the beans away from strong odors like spices and onions will help avoid the risk of the beans absorbing those odors and tasting like vegetable soup instead. 

Consider using an airtight bag or sealed container. This will further reduce the beans contact with both sunlight and oxygen, keeping them fresh longer.

If you are storing the beans for a long time, the basement can be a great place as well if you have one since it usually has a stable temperature and keeps your beans away from other foods. The freezer is another great long term storage option.

If stored properly, unopened coffee beans can stay fresh for up to 9 months.

Once opened, coffee beans need to be transferred to an airtight container and kept in a dark, cool location. This will keep the moisture and air away.

If you want to have your beans ready on the counter at all times, avoid using clear containers and stick to opaque or ceramic ones instead.

You want to use the beans within one to two weeks for the best flavor. 

All this being said, you can extend the shelf-life of opened beans for up to 6 months by throwing the airtight container into the freezer.

Here you will find some common ways of prolonging the shelf-life of your coffee beans. 

Store your coffee beans in a cool and dry location, away from the oven or strong afternoon sun.

The best temperature for storing coffee beans is between 60-70°F (15-21ºC) with a humidity of about 45-50 %.

A cabinet or pantry that doesn't get too warm is ideal.

Invest in storage canisters with an airtight seal. This helps in keeping the beans fresh and protecting them from air and moisture.

If you let the beans sit out the beans will start to absorb the moisture from the air and become stale.

Vacuum sealing can further preserve the freshness of coffee beans by removing air from the container entirely.

This method can extend the shelf life and keep the beans flavorful for months.

Storing coffee beans in the fridge is generally not recommended, as it can cause the coffee to condensate and push oils to the surface, aging the coffee faster. 

There are usually a lot of odors in the fridge that can affect the taste of your coffee as well.

Freezing coffee beans can add shelf life, but it must be done in an airtight container to protect against moisture and odors.

Avoid defrosting and refreezing, as it can create moisture that ages the coffee faster.

After roasting, coffee beans need to rest for 24 to 48 hours to release trapped gas. 

After that you should store them in an airtight container and follow the same tips and tricks that we mentioned above.

Green coffee beans can be stored in a cool, dry place in a breathable bag like a burlap sack. 

Using a shelf helps keep the coffee beans away from the ground as well as from pests. The same as for roasted beans, try to keep the green beans away from too many odors.

They are less sensitive to light and moisture but should still be kept in a controlled environment.

Ground coffee is more susceptible to oxidation than whole beans. So store it in an airtight container and use it as quickly as possible to enjoy the best taste.

Obviously you want the ground beans to be more accessible, so keeping them in a sealable jar on the counter is fine as long as you use it within 2 weeks.

For storing coffee beans over longer periods of time use an airtight container and keep them in a dark, cool location.

For the best result throw the airtight container into the freezer. This will keep the coffee beans fresh for as long as possible.

Similar to whole beans, coffee grounds should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature. You should use your coffee grounds within two weeks nonetheless since they spoil a lot faster than whole beans.

What Is The Best Way to Store Coffee Beans? 

The best way to store coffee beans is in an opaque, airtight container at room temperature, away from light, heat, and moisture. This preserves freshness and flavor.

Should You Store Coffee Beans In The Fridge? 

No, storing coffee beans in the fridge can cause condensation and push oils to the surface, aging the coffee faster.

How Long Can Coffee Beans Be Stored? 

Whole coffee beans can be stored for up to 9 months in proper conditions as mentioned in the article. 

Opened beans that are not placed in airtight containers should be used within one to two weeks.

How Do You Store Raw Coffee beans?

Raw (green) coffee beans can be stored in a breathable bag like a burlap sack in a cool, dry place.

Is Freezing Coffee Beans a Good Idea? 

Freezing coffee beans can extend shelf life, but they must be stored in an airtight container to prevent moisture and odor absorption.

Does Freezing Coffee Keep it Fresh? 

Yes, freezing coffee in an airtight container can keep it fresh for longer, but avoid defrosting and refreezing.

Is It Better To Keep Coffee beans in the Fridge or Freezer?