How Long Does Coffee Last in the Fridge?

Storing your coffee in the fridge is an efficient way to extend its shelf life, but the length of time it lasts in the fridge will depend on the type of coffee and how well it is stored. 

Brewed coffee will last about 3-4 days if properly stored in a sealed, airtight container, but other types of coffee, like coffee with milk or cream, can only last about 1-2 days. 

Here's a complete guide to storing various types of coffee in the fridge, how long each type lasts, and tips to preserve freshness and flavor.

 How Long Does Coffee Last in the Fridge? (By Type)

1. How Long Does Brewed Coffee (Hot or Cold Black Coffee) Last in the Fridge

If properly stored, brewed coffee can last about 3-4 days in the fridge. You may notice some slight degradation in its flavor, but it is usually still safe to drink until about the 4th day. 

Follow these tips when storing brewed coffee in the fridge: 

• Make sure it is in an airtight container before you put it in the fridge
• Do not add sugar or milk until you're ready to drink it.

Follow these tips, and your brewed coffee will still be safe to drink after 4 days.

How to Tell if Brewed Coffee is Bad

When brewed coffee goes bad, it smells sour or musty. Here are two signs that indicate your brewed coffee is bad:

1. It smells musty or sour.
2. It shows cloudiness or mold

2. How Long Does Coffee with Milk or Cream Last in the Fridge

Once you put any dairy product into your coffee, it is very likely to spoil quickly, even if you put it in the fridge. 

• If you have already put milk or cream into your coffee, you have to drink it within 1–2 days.
• If you notice any separation between the coffee and cream or perceive a sour smell, your coffee has gone bad, and it is time to toss it.

How to Tell if Your Coffee with Milk or Cream is Bad

Milk-based coffee spoils really quickly. Here are two signs your coffee with milk/cream is bad:

1. It has chunks, curdling
2. It has a sour smell

For coffee with milk/ cream, it is dangerous to drink beyond 1-2 days.

3. How Long Does Cold Brew Coffee / Stock Coffee Last in the Fridge

Cold brew coffee lasts longer in the fridge because of its low acidity and the slow steeping.

Commercial “stock coffee” can last about 10-14 days even after opening because it usually has preservatives.

However, for the best flavor, it is advisable to consume it within a week.

How to Tell if Your Cold Brew Coffee is Bad

Mild flavor loss is normal after 5–7 days, but it is generally not an indication that your cold brew coffee is bad.

1. Here’s how to know your cold brew coffee is bad:
2. But off smells, fizzing, or visible film/mold are clear signs to toss it.

Slight tartness may be early fermentation.

Recommended Refrigerator for Storing Cold Brew Coffee (Bulk Storage or Bottled)

For storing and showcasing cold brew coffee, you need commercial beverage refrigerators, specifically Glass Door Display refrigerators. 

Wilprep’s models are built for maximum cooling, energy efficiency and are designed for use in coffee shops, grocery stores, and convenience stores.

4. How Long Does Iced Coffee Last in the Fridge?

Iced coffee is made with hot-brewed coffee, then chilled, but the icing does not help it last longer in the fridge-it lasts just about 3-4 days (like regular brewed coffee) 

For the best taste, store without ice and then add the ice when serving.

How to Tell if Your Iced Coffee is Bad

Dairy creamers go sour in the same way that milk does. So, watch for bad smell, rough texture, and mold.

Look for chemical smells, discoloration, or separation beyond what’s normal.

Refrigerators for Storing Iced Coffee or Pre-Brewed Coffee Concentrates

For carafes or jugs of pre-made coffee, you go for an under-counter refrigerator. These are common in cafés and drive-thru coffee stands.

Wilprep’s Prep Table Refrigerators are also great for storing iced coffee in cafés with food service, and they even include space for cold brew pitchers along with food prep zones.

5. How Long Does Coffee Creamer Last in the Fridge?

Once you open your coffee creamer, it is advisable to consume it within 1-2 weeks (2 weeks maximum). 

For dairy-based creamers (e.g., half-and-half or flavored dairy creamers), keep sealed and use them within about 1 week after opening.

Non-dairy creamers like Coffee-Mate often last longer in the fridge, sometimes up to 2 weeks, but always check for an odd smell or texture.

Refrigerators for Storing Milk & Dairy Add-Ins for Coffee

For storing bulk milk, cream, oat milk, etc., to be used in lattes or cold brews, go for a reach-in refrigerator. They are high capacity and good for busy cafés or restaurants.

Wilprep’s open-air merchandiser refrigerators are also ideal for low-volume or self-serve setups (like hotel coffee stations).

6. Can You Store Ground Coffee / Whole Bean Coffee in the Fridge?

Ground coffee and whole bean coffee are not meant to be stored in the fridge-so don't do it. There is a high risk of it absorbing moisture and odors, which may cause your coffee beans to become stale. 

Store in an opaque, airtight container in a cool, dark pantry.

Fun Fact: In parts of South America and Central Africa, where most of the coffee beans come from, coffee beans are stored in dry, warm areas before processing. It is quite common to see large mats with coffee beans spread on top of them in the sun.

All that to say…do not put it in the fridge. That is the exact opposite of what you want to be doing.

General Rule of Thumb for Refrigerating Coffee

• Cool and airtight storage is key.
• Always store coffee in a sealed, airtight container to prevent absorption of odors and moisture.
  Avoid repeatedly opening and closing the container, which can cause condensation and degradation.

Pro Tips:

• Don’t freeze brewed coffee unless you’re making coffee ice cubes or smoothies.
• Label your containers with the brew date for tracking.
• Avoid glass containers that aren’t airtight; plastic or stainless steel with tight lids are better.
• If coffee smells off or tastes sour, discard it.

Summary

Emily Wilford

Emily Wilford is a passionate culinary equipment expert with extensive experience in the commercial kitchen industry. As a dedicated contributor to Wilprep Kitchen, Emily has a deep understanding of the tools and technologies that drive efficient, high-quality food preparation. With her industry knowledge and hands-on experience, she provides insightful articles that help readers navigate the world of commercial kitchen equipment. Explore her expert advice and tips at Wilprep Kitchen