Grease Storage and Handling: Best Practices to Protect Performance

You could buy the best grease on the market, but if it’s stored wrong—exposed to dirt, heat, or moisture—it’ll break down before it ever hits a bearing.

Grease is a precision product. It must be clean, stable, and consistent when applied. Poor handling turns it into a liability. This guide outlines best practices for storing and handling grease in a way that protects your equipment—and your investment.

Why Grease Handling Matters

Grease is sensitive to:

• Moisture: Causes emulsification and loss of lubricity

• Air: Oxidizes the base oil and thickeners over time

• Contamination: Dirt, metal shavings, and dust ruin consistency

• Temperature Swings: Cause oil bleed and separation

Storage Best Practices

🧊 1. Control Temperature

• Store between 32°F and 86°F (0–30°C)

• Avoid freezing or direct sun exposure

• Rotate stock—use the oldest grease first

🚫 2. Keep It Clean & Dry

• Store indoors whenever possible

• Seal containers tightly after each use

• Keep drums off concrete floors to prevent condensation

🧰 3. Use Dedicated Tools

• Label all grease guns and pumps by product

• Avoid cross-contamination with universal fittings

• Clean tools before every refill

Labeling & Tracking

• Include: Grease type, date received, expiration

• Log usage per system, where applicable

• Tag pumps and cartridges with OEM-approved labels

Shelf Life Guidelines

• Mineral Oil Grease: ~2–5 years

• Synthetic Grease: Often 5+ years

• Food-Grade or Biodegradable Grease: Shorter life (~1–2 years)

💡 Always refer to the manufacturer’s technical data sheet.

Signs Your Grease Has Gone Bad

• Free oil pooling in the container

• Grainy, dry, or stiff texture

• Bad or rancid odor (especially in food-grade grease)

• Visible water or dirt contamination