How to Store Magnesium Spray Properly

You've invested in quality magnesium spray—now how do you make sure it stays effective? While magnesium chloride is a remarkably stable compound, proper storage can extend shelf life and ensure you get the full benefit from every bottle. This quick guide covers everything you need to know about storing, handling, and caring for your magnesium spray.

Understanding Magnesium Spray Stability

The good news is that pure magnesium chloride solution is inherently stable. Unlike many supplements or skincare products that contain delicate active ingredients, magnesium chloride doesn't break down easily. The high salt concentration also naturally inhibits bacterial growth.

That said, proper storage ensures optimal effectiveness and extends the usable life of your product.

Optimal Storage Conditions

Temperature

Magnesium spray is best stored at room temperature—typically between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This is the temperature range of most Australian homes, so no special measures are needed.

Avoid:

• Extreme heat (like a hot car in summer or near a heater)
• Freezing temperatures (can cause crystallisation)
• Rapid temperature fluctuations

Light Exposure

While magnesium chloride itself isn't particularly light-sensitive, most quality products come in opaque or coloured bottles for a reason. Store your spray away from direct sunlight to preserve any additional ingredients and prevent potential bottle degradation.

Humidity

Magnesium chloride is hygroscopic—it attracts water from the air. While this doesn't typically affect the spray inside the bottle (it's already in solution), ensure the cap is securely closed after each use to prevent contamination or concentration changes.

Where to Store Your Magnesium Spray

Best Locations

• Bathroom cabinet: Convenient for daily use, protected from light, reasonable temperature
• Bedside drawer: Perfect for evening application routines
• Bedroom dresser: Away from bathroom humidity, easily accessible
• Kitchen pantry: Stable temperature, dark environment (if you prefer morning application)

Locations to Avoid

• Shower area: Excessive humidity and heat exposure
• Window sills: Direct sunlight and temperature variations
• Car glove box: Extreme temperature swings, especially in Australian summers
• Near heating/cooling vents: Temperature fluctuations

Handling Best Practices

Keep It Clean

To maintain product integrity:

• Wash hands before use to avoid introducing contaminants
• Don't touch the spray nozzle opening directly
• Wipe the nozzle area occasionally if product residue builds up
• Never return unused product to the bottle

Secure the Cap

Always close the bottle properly after use. This:

• Prevents evaporation (which would increase concentration)
• Keeps out contaminants
• Maintains hygiene
• Prevents spills

Travelling with Magnesium Spray

For those who want to maintain their routine while travelling:

Short Trips

• Pack your regular bottle in checked luggage (liquids restrictions for carry-on)
• Or decant into a travel-size container under 100ml for carry-on
• Keep in your toiletry bag, protected from temperature extremes

Extended Travel

• Consider purchasing a small bottle at your destination to avoid TSA issues
• Store in your hotel room, not the bathroom (often too humid)
• Avoid leaving in hot vehicles

Signs Your Magnesium Spray May Have Gone Off

Pure magnesium chloride spray rarely "goes bad" in the traditional sense, but here are signs that something may be wrong:

Visual Changes

• Cloudiness: Clear solution becoming cloudy may indicate contamination
• Particles: Floating debris or sediment (crystals are usually okay and can be redissolved)
• Colour change: Pure magnesium chloride solution should be clear and colourless

Smell Changes

• Pure magnesium spray should be odourless or have a very mild saline smell
• Any unusual, musty, or off-putting odour suggests contamination

Texture Changes

• Solution should remain liquid and consistent
• Excessive crystallisation (more than a few crystals) may indicate evaporation issues

Performance Changes

• If the spray seems weaker or less effective than usual
• If skin reactions differ significantly from your normal experience

When in doubt, it's better to replace the product than to continue using something that may be compromised.

Dealing with Crystallisation

If you notice white crystals forming in your magnesium spray, don't panic—this is normal and doesn't mean the product is ruined.

Why It Happens

Crystallisation can occur due to:

• Cold temperatures
• Evaporation from an improperly closed cap
• Normal settling in highly concentrated solutions

How to Fix It

1. Warm the bottle gently in your hands or in warm (not hot) water
2. Shake the bottle vigorously until crystals dissolve
3. If crystals persist, you can add a small amount of distilled water and shake
4. Store at room temperature going forward

Storing Products with Added Ingredients

If your magnesium spray contains additional ingredients like essential oils, aloe vera, or other botanicals, storage becomes slightly more important:

• Shorter shelf life: Added ingredients may reduce overall stability. Check manufacturer recommendations.
• Light sensitivity: Essential oils can degrade with light exposure. Keep in a dark place.
• Temperature sensitivity: Some botanical ingredients are more temperature-sensitive than pure magnesium chloride.
• Follow specific instructions: Products with added ingredients often have specific storage recommendations on the label.

Buying and Stockpiling Tips

If you buy in bulk or want to stock up:

• Unopened bottles last 2-3 years in proper conditions
• Store extra bottles in a cool, dark cupboard
• Use FIFO (first in, first out)—use oldest bottles first
• Check expiration dates when purchasing
• Avoid buying more than you'll use within the shelf life

Quick Reference: Dos and Don'ts

Do:

• Store at room temperature
• Keep away from direct sunlight
• Close cap securely after each use
• Keep in a convenient location to support your routine
• Check for any changes before use

Don't:

• Leave in hot cars or near heat sources
• Store in the shower or very humid areas
• Leave the cap off for extended periods
• Use if you notice unusual colour, smell, or particles
• Keep past the recommended expiration date

Conclusion

Storing magnesium spray is straightforward—room temperature, away from light, with a secure cap. The most important factor is keeping it somewhere convenient so you'll actually use it consistently. A perfectly stored bottle that sits unused is far less valuable than a slightly imperfect storage situation with daily use.

With proper care, your magnesium spray will remain effective for its entire shelf life, supporting your wellness routine bottle after bottle.

For more guidance on using magnesium spray, explore our beginner's guide or learn about building a consistent routine.