Baileys drinkers are storing bottles incorrectly - avoid this spot for optimal shelf life

Bottles of Baileys Original, Deliciously Light and Chocolate Luxe cream Liqueur are displayed for sale on a supermarket shelf
-Credit:2024 John Keeble


Baileys, the ultimate Christmas drink that many households will have on hand for the festivities, is often stored incorrectly by a good number of us.

Known for its delicious blend of fresh dairy cream, Irish whiskey and a hint of chocolate and vanilla, many people instinctively store it in the fridge due to its dairy content.

However, contrary to popular belief, this creamy liqueur should be stored at room temperature. According to the brand's instructions, Baileys doesn't need to be refrigerated.

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Salted caramel Baileys bottles are seen on a store shelf
Salted caramel Baileys bottles are seen on a store shelf -Credit:Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto

So while you're welcome to chill the liqueur, it doesn't mean your festive bottle of Baileys will last longer, The Mirror reports. Baileys assures that their drink remains good for two years - whether it's opened or not.

As explained on the Baileys website: "Baileys Original lasts two years from the day of bottling, opened or unopened when stored at the optimum temperature (0 to 25C/32 to 77F)."

Regarding whether it needs to be refrigerated, the brand clarified: "No, Baileys does not have to be stored in the fridge. The recommended storage temperature for Baileys is 0C to 25C and not in direct sunlight."

This means a bottle of Baileys lasts two years from the day of bottling - even if it hasn't been opened. You can check the BBE date which is printed on the back of the bottle to find this out.

Baileys on display at the HBO Luxury Lounge in honor Of The 65th Primetime Emmy Awards at The Four Seasons Hotel on September 20, 2013 in Beverly Hills, California
Baileys lasts two years from the day of bottling - even if it hasn't been opened -Credit:Getty

Baileys may be fine to drink at room temperature, but plumbers warn that pouring it down the drain can cause chaos in your pipes.

According to experts at MyBuilder.com: "Cream liqueur drinks, such as the popular Christmas favourite, Baileys, can be a problem for your plumbing at Christmas. While it may be delicious to drink, it doesn't keep for long and often ends up down the sink.

"However, this sort of beverage should never be disposed of in this way. Cream liqueurs have a large fat content and as such fall into the category of FOG (Fats, Oils, and Greases). FOG should never go down the sink, as it sticks to pipes and can cause blockages. It's also responsible for 'fatbergs' in our sewers."

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