Do Fireworks Expire?
Whether it’s Bonfire Night, New Year’s Eve or a summer wedding, fireworks are the main event for many celebrations. But if you’ve found a box tucked away in the shed or loft, it’s natural to wonder — do fireworks expire?
Let’s be honest, no one wants a dud on display night. And more importantly, no one wants a fire hazard. So, if you’re sitting on a stash of sparklers, rockets, or Roman candles from a few years back, here’s everything you need to know before lighting the fuse.
Do Fireworks Have an Expiry Date?
Technically, no. Fireworks don’t have a stamped expiration date like your milk or mascara — but that doesn’t mean they last forever. Most manufacturers suggest a shelf life of around 3 to 8 years if stored correctly, though this varies based on materials and conditions. Cardboard casings, paper wrappings, and fuses are all sensitive to moisture and temperature swings.
How to Tell If Your Fireworks Have Gone Bad
So you’ve got a box left over from bonfire night and you want to use them for your child’s birthday party, and you’re not sure what’s what. Here’s how to check if your fireworks are still safe to use:
The biggest threat to your fireworks is moisture. The powder inside your fireworks only stays stable if there’s no moisture inside the cartridge. Therefore, if you do stumble across an old firework, it’s crucial to check whether it has been in contact with moisture. Note that this could include any extreme temperature changes, not just contact with water.
Although you can typically tell if your fireworks have been in contact with moisture, you might not always notice any big patches of moisture. Just think carefully what sorts of conditions have been in the storage where you find the fireworks before deciding to use them.
How to Store Fireworks Properly
If you’re planning ahead for your next event and want to avoid wasting your investment, storage is key. Most firework failures are down to moisture exposure, extreme temperatures, or accidental damage — all things that can be avoided with a little care.
Keep them somewhere cool and dry
Firstly, we always recommend you check any legal requirements when storing fireworks.
Lofts and sheds aren’t always ideal, especially in winter or summer when temperatures swing wildly. Aim for a space that’s dry, dark, and relatively stable in temperature.
Use the original packaging
It’s tempting to decant fireworks into other boxes, especially if you’re trying to save space. Don’t. The original packaging protects the individual components and usually comes with instructions and safety info.
Store away from flammable materials
It might sound obvious, but don’t keep them near petrol, paint, or anything else that’s highly flammable. And never store fireworks near sources of heat or spark — including plug sockets.
Can You Dispose of Expired Fireworks Safely?
Absolutely. And you should — never try to light a firework that looks questionable or past its prime. But don’t just chuck them in the bin either. Used or expired fireworks require careful disposal.
The safest route is to soak them thoroughly in water for at least 24 hours. Once soaked, they can be double-bagged and disposed of in your general waste bin (not recycling). It’s a bit of a faff, but it’s worth doing right.
For more detail, you can always refer to our full guide to disposing fireworks safely, which covers everything from spent shells to duds.
Eco-Friendly Tips for Firework Use and Disposal
Let’s be real — fireworks aren’t the most environmentally friendly of traditions. But there are ways to lessen your impact if you still want the sparkle without the guilt.
Choose low-debris options
There are now eco-conscious fireworks that produce less smoke and fewer leftover materials. They’re not always as flashy, but they get the job done — and they’re a step in the right direction.
Clean up after the show
Always. Even if it’s your garden and not a public display, gather up the remains. Paper tubes, sticks, and other leftovers don’t just look messy — they can harm wildlife.
Avoid overbuying
It’s tempting to go all out, but overbuying leads to excess stock, rushed storage, and — you guessed it — forgotten fireworks sitting in a damp shed for years. Buy only what you’ll use, or better yet, stick to curated packs made for full displays.
Final Thoughts
So, do fireworks expire? Not exactly — but they definitely go bad. And old fireworks aren’t just disappointing. They’re unpredictable. Maybe even dangerous. If you’ve got a few leftover bits lying around and you’re questioning whether to use them — have a read through this guide beforehand. It’s always safer (and a lot more fun) to start with fresh, high-quality fireworks. When you’re planning your next celebration, be smart about storage and disposal – and don’t forget you can order large packs for major events right here from us!
