Best Practices for Safe Storage of Food Grade Ethanol Products
Properly storing 200 proof ethanol keeps it pure, safe, and ready for every use. Always treat ethanol as you would any flammable, high-purity chemical, especially if you have children or pets in the home.
1. Secure & Child-Proof
- Keep bottles locked away, or on a high shelf, out of children’s reach.
- Store in the original, tightly sealed HDPE bottle to preserve purity and prevent accidental spills.
2. Cool & Dark Location
- Choose a spot that stays between 50 °F and 77 °F (10 °C–25 °C).
- Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources; UV rays and warmth can degrade ethanol over time.
3. Good Ventilation & Fire Safety
- Select a well-ventilated area (e.g., a utility closet or garage shelf) so vapors cannot accumulate.
- Keep away from open flames, sparks, and electrical equipment. No smoking nearby.
- Have a Class B fire extinguisher on hand and know your local fire code requirements.
4. Check & Maintain
- Inspect bottles regularly for cracks, leaks, or degraded seals.
- Wipe off any residue immediately, ethanol can attack some surfaces over time.
5. Emergency Preparedness
- Store spill kit materials (absorbent pads, gloves, goggles) close by.
- Clean up spills immediately.
- Keep Material Safety Data Sheets (SDS) accessible. Download 200 proof ethyl alcohol SDS sheet.
Materials Compatibility at a Glance
- Ideal: Original HDPE plastic, glass, stainless steel
- Also Good: PTFE/Teflon®, polypropylene (PP), nylon
- Avoid: Brass (risk of lead leaching), untreated aluminum over long periods
Understanding Non-Reactive vs. Reactive Materials
Non-reactive materials, such as HDPE plastic, glass, stainless steel, and Teflon® (PTFE), resist chemical interaction with ethanol. They do not leach contaminants, degrade, or alter the purity of stored liquid—even after extended contact. Reactive materials, on the other hand, may corrode, leach metals, or undergo chemical changes when in prolonged exposure to high-proof alcohol. For instance, untreated aluminum can oxidize and impart off-flavors, while certain brass alloys risk lead leaching. Choosing non-reactive storage containers and tools safeguards the integrity of your 200 proof ethanol and ensures consistent performance in every use.
By following these simple steps you’ll ensure your 200 proof food grade ethanol stays pristine, potent, and ready for any tincture, extract, or DIY project.
