Brits have been making a common mistake when it comes to storing the beloved festive tipple, Baileys Irish Cream, according to official guidance. The instinct to pop an opened bottle in the refrigerator is widespread, but it turns out this step is entirely unnecessary for preserving the creamy liqueur.
The Official Storage Guidance
Contrary to popular belief, Baileys does not require refrigeration, even after you have broken the seal. The manufacturer states clearly that Baileys Original lasts for two years from the day it was bottled, whether opened or unopened, provided it is kept at the optimum temperature range.
That range is between 0°C and 25°C (32°F to 77°F). The brand explicitly advises against storing the bottle in direct sunlight but confirms that chilling is not a requirement. Given that the average UK fridge operates at around 3-4°C, storing Baileys there is perfectly safe if you prefer it cold, but it will not extend its shelf life beyond the two-year mark.
How to Check Your Bottle and a Critical Warning
To know if your Baileys is still good to drink, simply check the best-before date stamped on the back of the bottle. However, if you find yourself needing to dispose of an old bottle that's past this date, plumbing experts are issuing a stark warning.
Specialists from MyBuilder.com have highlighted that pouring creamy liqueurs like Baileys down the sink is a serious error. These drinks have a high fat content, categorising them as FOG (Fats, Oils, and Greases).
FOG substances should never be disposed of via the sink as they stick to pipework and are a leading cause of household blockages and the formation of massive 'fatbergs' in public sewers.
The Verdict for Your Festive Cabinet
So, the expert advice is clear: your Baileys can happily reside at room temperature in a cupboard or on a sideboard, away from sunlight. There's no need to sacrifice precious fridge space for it. The key takeaways for consumers are:
- Storage life is two years from bottling, opened or not.
- Keep it between 0°C and 25°C, out of direct sun.
- Fridge storage is optional, not mandatory.
- Never pour leftover or expired Baileys down the drain.
This guidance, confirmed by the brand on its official website, should settle the debate and help ensure your festive celebrations—and your plumbing—remain in good flow.
