Essential Oil Packaging: What You Need to Know

Essential oils are powerful, concentrated plant extracts prized for their therapeutic benefits, beautiful aromas, and natural origins. But because they’re also sensitive to light, heat, and oxygen, how you package them is just as important as the oils themselves.

Whether you’re launching a new line or improving your current packaging, this guide will help you understand what to look for — and why it matters.

Why Proper Packaging Matters for Essential Oils

Essential oils are volatile, meaning they can easily evaporate or break down if not stored properly. The right packaging helps:

• Preserve purity and potency

• Prevent leakage or evaporation

• Ensure user safety

• Enhance brand appeal and professionalism

Key Elements of Essential Oil Packaging

1. Bottle Material

Glass is the gold standard for essential oil packaging. Here’s why:

• Non-reactive – Won’t interact with the oils.

• Preserves aroma – Keeps scents true and long-lasting.

• Recyclable – An eco-friendly option.

Avoid plastic containers unless they are made from specific essential oil-safe plastics (like HDPE or PET), and even then, they’re best suited for short-term use or diluted oils.

2. Bottle Color

Light degrades essential oils over time. To protect them, tinted glass is essential:

• Amber – The most popular and affordable; offers excellent UV protection.

• Cobalt Blue – Offers some UV protection and stands out visually.

• Clear – Often used for blends or gifting but should be stored away from light.

3. Bottle Size

Essential oils are typically sold in small quantities due to their potency. Common sizes include:

• 5ml, 10ml, 15ml – Ideal for pure oils.

• 30ml to 100ml – More common for blends, carrier oils, or massage oils.

4. Closure Types

Your closure choice affects usability and safety.

• Dropper Caps – Ideal for controlled dispensing of pure oils.

• Spray Tops – Used for room sprays and facial mists.

• Pipettes/Droppers – Perfect for skincare and DIY use.

• Child-Resistant Caps – A must for safety, especially with strong oils.

5. Labeling and Branding

Your label should do more than just look good. It needs to:

• Comply with regulations (ingredient list, volume, safety warnings)

• Include batch numbers and expiry dates

• Reflect your brand’s style, natural aesthetic, and values

Tip: Use waterproof and oil-resistant labels to avoid smudging or peeling.

Tips for Choosing the Right Essential Oil Bottle

• Test your closures to ensure a tight seal.

• Use reducer inserts to control flow for single drops.

• Package in boxes or cartons for extra protection and added branding space.

• Buy from a trusted supplier that specializes in essential oil packaging.

The Packhouse: Your Trusted Source for Essential Oil Packaging

At The Packhouse, we supply a wide range of glass bottles and closures designed specifically for essential oils and natural products. From amber droppers to roller bottles and spray misters, our solutions are trusted by small businesses, aromatherapists, and wellness brands alike.

We also offer:

• Low minimum order quantities

• Bulk discounts for wholesale customers

• Fast delivery nationwide

• Friendly, expert advice

Final Thoughts

The right essential oil packaging protects your product, elevates your brand, and builds trust with your customers. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling your product line, make sure your packaging works as hard as your oils do.

Need help choosing the perfect bottle?
Get in touch with us today — we’ll guide you every step of the way.