How to store ground coffee

A portafilter filled with coffee grounds demonstrating how to make espresso — (Image credit: Pexels)

Whether you've invested in one of the best coffee makers 2024 has to offer, mastered that milk steaming hack to improve latte art, or perfected at-home cold brew coffee, it all starts with fresh grounds.

Even the most sophisticated brewing equipment can't compensate for stale coffee. Whether you're a casual coffee consumer or a dedicated enthusiast, knowing how to properly store your grounds can make the difference between a mediocre cup and a remarkable brewing experience.

1. Choose the right container

Select an airtight container that blocks out light and moisture. Ceramic or opaque glass containers with secure seals work best, while clear containers or the original packaging can let in harmful light.

Make sure your container is clean and completely dry before transferring your grounds.

2. Find the perfect location

Pantry with jars and containers of food labeled

Store your coffee in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid keeping it near the stove, oven, or on countertops that get morning sun.

A pantry or cabinet away from appliances is ideal, maintaining consistent temperature and darkness.

3. Control moisture and temperature

Keep your grounds at room temperature, around 70°F (21°C). Avoid storing coffee in the refrigerator or freezer, as temperature changes create condensation that can spoil the grounds.

Ensure the storage area has low humidity to prevent moisture from affecting flavor.

4. Buy the right amount

Purchase only what you'll use within 2-4 weeks. While proper storage helps maintain freshness, coffee grounds inevitably lose flavor over time. Consider buying smaller quantities more frequently rather than bulk purchasing for optimal taste.

5. Handle with care

Mr. Coffee Perfect Brew Coffee Maker review

Always use clean, dry utensils when scooping grounds, and close containers immediately after use. Minimize exposure to air and avoid leaving the container open longer than necessary.

Another good tip is using a dedicated coffee spoon to prevent cross-contamination.

Now that you know how to keep your coffee grounds fresh, explore the best coffee grinders for better brewing, discover how to descale your coffee maker properly, and learn how to clean a coffee grinder and keep your brew tasting fresh.

Kaycee is Tom's Guide's How-To Editor, known for tutorials that get straight to what works. She writes across phones, homes, TVs and everything in between — because life doesn't stick to categories and neither should good advice. She's spent years in content creation doing one thing really well: making complicated things click. Kaycee is also an award-winning poet and co-editor at Fox and Star Books.