Updated 2 August 2026 · Written by Daniel Wright
Butter lasts about 1 to 3 months in the fridge, often past its printed date, and up to 6 to 12 months in the freezer. Salted butter keeps longer than unsalted because salt acts as a preservative. Left covered at room temperature, butter stays spreadable for a few days but can eventually turn rancid.
Butter: 1 to 3 months in the fridge, 6 to 12 months frozen. Salted lasts longer; countertop butter, a few days.
How Long It Keeps
- Fridge: 1 to 3 months, often beyond the printed date.
- Freezer: 6 to 12 months, well wrapped.
- Room temperature: a few days if covered, longer for salted butter.
- Rancid butter smells sour or cheesy and should be discarded.
Storing Butter
Keep butter wrapped and away from strong-smelling foods, as it absorbs odors. For long storage, freezing works well; see can you freeze butter. Measure amounts with the guide on grams in a stick of butter, and store it in a sealed container or butter dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you leave butter on the counter?
Yes, for a few days if covered. Salted butter lasts longer at room temperature, while unsalted is best kept in the fridge to avoid going rancid.
How can you tell if butter has gone bad?
Rancid butter smells sour, cheesy or off, and may look discolored. If it smells wrong, throw it out.
