Coffee canisters are widely considered an essential aspect of keeping grounds fresh and aromatic, but many wonder if they are actually necessary for effective storage.

While it's true that an airtight canister can help extend the shelf-life of your coffee, any kind of airtight storage system will work. Even the original packaging is viable.

In all cases, you should also store your beans or grounds somewhere cool and dark, like a pantry or cupboard, mirroring the conditions offered within a coffee canister.

Sunlight and heat can be as detrimental to coffee quality as air exposure. If you're going to use a canister, opt for an opaque one rather than clear glass.