Best practice storage tips to protect the quality and shelf life of your IKOU products.

<h2 id="how-should-i-store-my-ikou-products">How should I store my IKOU products?</h2>Every IKOU product is crafted with pure, natural ingredients &#x2014; and a little care in how you store them goes a long way in preserving their quality, potency, and sensory experience. Here&apos;s our guide to keeping your IKOU products at their very best.CandlesIKOU&apos;s hand-poured, 100% natural wax candles are designed to fill your space with luxuriously layered essential oil scents. To protect them:<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Keep the lid on when not in use to protect the wax surface and preserve the scent</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Avoid storing in areas with fluctuating temperatures (such as near windows or in cars) as this can cause the wax to crack or discolour</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Store upright at all times to maintain the shape of the wax and wick positioning</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">For best results, use within 12 months of purchase</li></ul>Essential OilsIKOU&apos;s 100% pure essential oils are potent and sensitive to environmental factors. To maintain their therapeutic integrity:<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Store in a cool, dark place &#x2014; a cupboard or drawer is ideal</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Keep bottles tightly sealed after each use to prevent oxidisation</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Avoid direct sunlight and heat, which can degrade the oil&apos;s quality and scent profile</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Do not store near humidity sources such as bathrooms or kitchens where possible</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">IKOU recommends keeping a dedicated essential oil drawer or cupboard so you can choose your blend based on your mood each day</li></ul>SkincareIKOU&apos;s high-performance botanical skincare uses active phytonutrients and Australian fruit and flower extracts. To preserve their efficacy:<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Store in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Keep products tightly closed between uses to prevent contamination and oxidisation</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Avoid storing in steamy bathrooms where possible &#x2014; a bedroom shelf or vanity drawer is preferable</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Serums and facial oils can be stored in the refrigerator for an extra cooling, soothing application experience</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Always check the PAO (Period After Opening) symbol on packaging for individual shelf life guidance after first use</li></ul>Body CareIKOU&apos;s botanical body care range &#x2014; including scrubs, washes, lotions, souffl&#xE9;s, and hand creams &#x2014; thrives with simple storage care:<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and excess humidity</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Ensure lids and pumps are fully closed after each use</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Body scrubs should be kept away from water ingress &#x2014; use a dry scoop or spatula where possible to extend shelf life</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Hand creams and lotions are best stored at room temperature</li></ul>HaircareIKOU&apos;s essential oil-based haircare is formulated to restore and revitalise. Store it simply by:<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Keeping in a cool, dry area away from direct heat and sunlight</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Ensuring bottles are sealed tightly after use</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Avoiding storage in direct shower spray zones to prevent water dilution of product</li></ul>Herbal TeasIKOU&apos;s herbal teas are best enjoyed fresh and aromatic. Keep them at their best by:<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Storing in a cool, dry, airtight container away from light</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Keeping away from strong odours as tea can absorb surrounding scents</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Consuming within the best before date printed on the packaging</li></ul>Reed Diffusers &amp; Linen Mists<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Reed diffusers should be placed on a stable, flat surface away from air conditioning vents and fans, which can cause the oil to evaporate faster than intended</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Store unused refills upright in a cool, dark place with caps tightly secured</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Linen mists should be stored away from heat and direct sunlight and kept upright at all times</li></ul>General Storage Tips for All IKOU Products<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Avoid storing any products in direct sunlight, near heat sources, or in damp environments</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Natural ingredients are at their best when stored consistently at room temperature</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">When in doubt, check the individual product label for specific storage guidance</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">If you have any questions about a specific product, our support team is always happy to help</li></ul> Still need help?We&apos;re here for you. If you couldn&apos;t find what you were looking for, our customer care team is happy to assist.&#x1F4E9; <a href="https://ikou.com.au/pages/contact-us" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Contact Customer Support</a>&#x1F550; Customer Care Hours (AEST)Mon &#x2013; Fri: 8:00am &#x2013; 4:00pm

How should I store my IKOU products?

Understand the shelf life of IKOU products after opening and how to get the most from them.

<h2 id="how-long-do-products-last-after-opening">How Long Do Products Last After Opening?</h2>Most IKOU products include a Period After Opening (PAO) symbol on the packaging to help guide how long a product is best used after it has been opened. Here&apos;s how to read it and make the most of every product.&#xA0;What Is the PAO Symbol?The PAO symbol appears as a small open jar icon with a number on the packaging. It indicates how long your product is best used after opening:<table style="margin-right: calc(21%); width: 79%;"><thead><tr><th scope="col" style="width: 27.3626%;"><div style="text-align: center;">Symbol</div></th><th scope="col" style="width: 72.4176%;"><div style="text-align: center;">What It Means</div></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td style="width: 27.3626%;"><div style="text-align: center;">6M</div></td><td style="width: 72.4176%;"><div style="text-align: center;">Best used within 6 months of opening</div></td></tr><tr><td style="width: 27.3626%;"><div style="text-align: center;">12M</div></td><td style="width: 72.4176%;"><div style="text-align: center;">Best used within 12 months of opening</div></td></tr></tbody></table> We recommend noting the date you first open a product so you can track its PAO easily.How to Keep Your Products at Their BestBecause many IKOU products contain naturally derived ingredients and essential oils, proper storage plays an important role in maintaining their quality, integrity, and sensory experience:<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Close lids tightly after every use</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Store away from direct sunlight and excessive heat</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Avoid introducing water into products where possible</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Use clean hands or applicators to prevent contamination</li></ul>&#xA0;Signs a Product May Be Past Its BestIf a product develops a significant change in any of the following, we recommend discontinuing use:<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Smell &#x2014; notably different or unpleasant aroma</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Texture &#x2014; separated, lumpy, or significantly thinner or thicker than usual</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Appearance &#x2014; unexpected colour change beyond normal natural variation</li></ul>If you&apos;re unsure whether a product is still good to use, please don&apos;t hesitate to get in touch &#x2014; our team is happy to help.Please note: Subtle natural variations in scent, colour, or texture between batches are normal for naturally derived products. See <a href="https://ikou-r24guzgdoke.gorgias.help/en-US/natural-ingredients-and-seasonal-variation-6439512" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Natural Ingredients &amp; Seasonal Variation</a> for more information.Want to Know More About Storage?&#x1F449; See <a href="https://ikou-r24guzgdoke.gorgias.help/en-US/how-should-i-store-my-ikou-products-6062055" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">How should I store my IKOU products?</a> for our full product storage guide. Still need help?We&apos;re here for you. If you couldn&apos;t find what you were looking for, our customer care team is happy to assist.&#x1F4E9; <a href="https://ikou.com.au/pages/contact-us">Contact Customer Support</a>&#x1F550; Customer Care Hours (AEST)Mon &#x2013; Thu: 9:00am &#x2013; 5:00pm Fri: 9:00am &#x2013; 3:00pm

How Long Do Products Last After Opening?

How to responsibly recycle and dispose of your IKOU product packaging.

<h2 id="how-to-recycle-ikou-packaging">How to Recycle IKOU Packaging</h2>At IKOU, we&apos;re continually working toward more mindful packaging choices and encouraging responsible disposal where possible. Every small action adds up &#x2014; and we&apos;re grateful you&apos;re thinking about it too.General Recycling GuideRecycling guidelines can vary depending on your local council &#x2014; always check what&apos;s accepted in your area before recycling.Glass Bottles &amp; Jars<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Rinse thoroughly where possible before placing in recycling</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Remove pumps, droppers, or lids if required by your local recycling guidelines &#x2014; these are often made from mixed materials and may need to be separated</li></ul>Cardboard Packaging<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Flatten all cardboard boxes and outer packaging</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Place in your household recycling where accepted by your local council</li></ul>Plastic ComponentsSome pumps, caps, and mixed-material packaging components &#x2014; such as dispenser heads and spray nozzles &#x2014; may not be recyclable through standard kerbside systems.<blockquote>If in doubt, check with your local council recycling guidelines or explore specialised recycling programs available in your area that accept mixed-material packaging.</blockquote> Reuse &amp; RepurposeBefore recycling, consider giving your IKOU packaging a second life. Many of our customers love to:<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Reuse glass jars for storage &#x2014; cotton pads, hair ties, small items, or even as a candle holder</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Repurpose boxes for gifting, wrapping, or organisation</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Explore specialised recycling programs in your area for components that can&apos;t go in kerbside recycling</li></ul>Our CommitmentAs packaging technology continues to evolve, we remain committed to exploring more sustainable, responsible solutions across the IKOU range. We believe that beautiful products and environmental care can &#x2014; and should &#x2014; go hand in hand. Still need help?&#xA0;We&apos;re here for you. If you couldn&apos;t find what you were looking for, our customer care team is happy to assist.&#x1F4E9; <a href="https://ikou.com.au/pages/contact-us">Contact Customer Support</a>&#x1F550; Customer Care Hours (AEST)Mon &#x2013; Thu: 9:00am &#x2013; 5:00pm Fri: 9:00am &#x2013; 3:00pm

How to Recycle IKOU Packaging

How to store IKOU essential oils and natural products to preserve potency and freshness.

<h2 id="storage-recommendations-for-essential-oils--natural-products">Storage Recommendations for Essential Oils &amp; Natural Products</h2>A little care in how you store your IKOU products goes a long way in preserving their quality, potency, and sensory experience. Here&apos;s what you need to know.&#xA0;What Natural Products Are Sensitive ToNatural products and essential oils are living formulations &#x2014; and they respond to their environment. The key things to protect them from:<table><thead><tr><th scope="col">Factor</th><th scope="col">Why It Matters</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Heat</td><td>Can accelerate ingredient breakdown and alter scent</td></tr><tr><td>Direct sunlight</td><td>UV exposure degrades natural oils and active ingredients</td></tr><tr><td>Air exposure</td><td>Oxidises natural ingredients over time</td></tr><tr><td>Moisture fluctuations</td><td>Can affect texture, consistency, and product integrity</td></tr></tbody></table> Best Storage Practices<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Store in a cool, dry place &#x2014; away from heat sources and humidity</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Keep lids and caps tightly closed after every use</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Avoid leaving products in direct sunlight or hot environments &#x2014; including cars, windowsills, and bathrooms near showers</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Keep essential oils upright where possible to prevent leakage and oxidisation</li></ul>Temperature &amp; Texture ChangesEnvironmental temperature can temporarily affect the appearance and texture of natural products &#x2014; this is completely normal:<table style="margin-right: calc(2%); width: 98%;"><thead><tr><th scope="col" style="width: 40.7488%;">Condition</th><th scope="col" style="width: 59.0927%;">What You May Notice</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td style="width: 40.7488%;">Cooler climates</td><td style="width: 59.0927%;">Oils may thicken or appear cloudier than usual</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 40.7488%;">Warmer conditions</td><td style="width: 59.0927%;">Natural ingredients may soften or separate slightly</td></tr></tbody></table> These changes are temporary and cosmetic &#x2014; gently warming or cooling the product to room temperature will usually restore its normal consistency.General Storage Tips by Product Type<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Essential oils &#x2014; cool, dark cupboard or drawer; always upright and tightly sealed</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Candles &#x2014; cool, dry place with lid on; away from heat and direct sunlight</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Skincare &amp; bodycare &#x2014; room temperature; away from steam and direct sunlight</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Reed diffusers &#x2014; upright on a stable surface; away from vents and fans</li></ul>&#x1F449; See <a href="#">How should I store my IKOU products?</a> for our full product-by-product storage guide.Something Doesn&apos;t Look Right?If your product appears significantly different, damaged, or unusable &#x2014; beyond normal temperature-related changes &#x2014; please contact our Customer Care team with:<ul><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Photos of the product</li><li style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">The batch number from your packaging</li></ul>Our team will be happy to investigate and support you.Still need help?&#xA0;We&apos;re here for you. If you couldn&apos;t find what you were looking for, our customer care team is happy to assist.&#x1F4E9; <a href="https://ikou.com.au/pages/contact-us">Contact Customer Support</a>&#x1F550; Customer Care Hours (AEST)Mon &#x2013; Thu: 9:00am &#x2013; 5:00pm Fri: 9:00am &#x2013; 3:00pm

Storage Recommendations for Essential Oils & Natural Products

IKOU

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