What is the shelf life of povidone-iodine?

Under normal circumstances, the shelf life of unopened povidone-iodine is generally 24 months, while the shelf life of opened povidone-iodine is about 1 to 2 months. However, if the povidone-iodine becomes contaminated, it may become ineffective immediately. The detailed explanation is as follows:

The shelf life of unopened povidone-iodine is generally 24 months under normal conditions. This is because povidone-iodine maintains relatively stable chemical properties in a suitable environment and can effectively retain its disinfecting and antibacterial capabilities. However, the exact shelf life may vary depending on the manufacturer, so users should refer to the product's instruction label for specific information.

Once opened, povidone-iodine becomes more susceptible to external environmental factors, such as microorganisms and dust in the air, which may gradually reduce its disinfecting effectiveness. Small bottles of povidone-iodine typically have a shelf life of approximately one month after being opened. Larger bottles may have a slightly longer shelf life after opening, generally extending to about two months.

Regardless of bottle size, if the povidone-iodine becomes contaminated during use—for example, by reinserting a used cotton ball or swab into the bottle—it may become contaminated with bacteria or other microorganisms and could immediately lose its effectiveness. Therefore, it is essential to maintain cleanliness and sterility when using povidone-iodine.

When purchasing and using povidone-iodine, it is recommended to check the manufacturing date and expiration date on the product packaging and to use it as soon as possible within the indicated shelf life. Additionally, it should be stored in a cool, dry, and light-protected environment to help prolong its shelf life.