Proper pesticide storage is important to protect people, animals, and the pesticide itself. Keep these tips in mind when storing pesticides:

The Container Matters

• Pesticides should be stored in their original containers. The original container is designed to protect the product and it's made of materials that will withstand the chemicals in the product.
• Store containers with their original labeling which includes application and disposal directions, ingredient names and emergency information.
• The original container also has the appropriate lid/cap to protect kids and pets.

Temperature Matters

• Extremes in temperature can change the chemistry of some pesticides inside the container.
• Extremes in temperature can also damage containers.
• Always read the label for storage instructions. As a general rule, pesticides are best stored between 40-90 °F.

Location Matters

• Designate a place that is only used for pesticide storage.
• Pick a well-ventilated location that children and pets cannot access, preferably with a latch or lock.
• Keep pesticides away from food, feed and flames.
• Choose a location away from ponds, streams and drinking water wells.

Safety Matters

• Try to keep your pesticide inventory as low as possible. Buy only what you need this season; mix only what you need today.
• Dispose of unwanted pesticides properly rather than storing them.
• Never store pesticides in food or drink containers.
• Consider storing bottles inside a larger container that could contain liquids in the event of a leak or spill.

Additional Resources

• Are My Pesticides Still Good? - University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences
• Temperature Effects on Storage of Agricultural Pesticides - University of Missouri Extension
• Storing a Pesticide - Oregon Department of Ag & Oregon Department of Human Services
• Store Pesticides Safely - Pesticide Environmental Stewardship
• Storing Pesticides Safely - Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
• Storage Conditions - Pesticide Environmental Stewardship
• What you need to know about Storing a Pesticide - Penn State University
• Pesticide Storage - University of Missouri Extension
• Pesticide Containers - Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
• Containers, Containment, Storage and Disposal of Pesticides - Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

If you have questions about this, or any pesticide-related topic, please call NPIC at 800-858-7378 (8:00am - 12:00pm PST), or email us at npic@oregonstate.edu.