How to Tell if Your E-Liquid Has Gone Bad

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.

Do E-Liquids Expire?

✔ 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.

What Happens to Old E-Liquid?

Nicotine strength weakens
Flavours change or fade
Colour darkens (due to oxidation)
PG/VG may separate (thicker at bottom, watery at top)

Note: Expired e-liquid isn’t necessarily dangerous, but it’s usually not enjoyable or effective.

How to Read E-Liquid Expiry Dates

Look for one of the following on your bottle:

EXP or BBE (Best Before End)
Manufactured on + shelf life info

Most bottles state "Best before 24 months", particularly on nicotine-free shortfills.

Signs Your E-Liquid Has Gone Bad

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.

Does Nicotine Expire Faster?

✔ 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.

Recommended Fresh Nic Salts at FREESMO

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

How to Store E-Liquids to Extend Shelf Life

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.

DO

✔ 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

✗ DON’T store near radiators or windowsills.
✗ DON’T keep in your car glovebox in summer.

Can You Use Expired Vape Juice?

✔ 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.

So, Has Your E-Liquid Gone Bad?

All vape juices have a shelf life, but proper storage keeps them fresh longer.
Always check for changes in colour, smell, and taste, and avoid using expired e-liquid if it seems off.
FREESMO offers fresh, TPD-compliant e-liquids from trusted UK brands.

Explore our full range of nic salts and shortfills for top-quality flavours and performance.