How to Make Glow in the Dark Sticks Last Longer

Last Updated: September 15, 2021

Children and the young-at-heart love using glow-in-the-dark sticks for special events such as Halloween, celebrations and parties. If you want to be able to keep the sticks for longer, this article provides a very simple solution.

Steps

1
Place your glow-in-the-dark stick in the freezer.
2
Leave it there when not in use.
3
Defrost before you wish to use it. Take the stick out before you intend to use it, to allow it to defrost (at least one hour in advance).
4
Repeat the freeze/thaw cycle until your glow-in-the-dark stick is no longer able to glow. The freezing method will allow your glow-in-the-dark stick to last at least several more turns before it gives up. Instead of lasting for at least 12 -24 hours, it can last at least for a day or more.

Community Q&A

Question

Do glow sticks have expiration dates?

Community Answer

Yes. A glow stick can last up to two years in its original package in a cool dark place.
Question

How long can I keep it in the freezer until they stop working?

Community Answer

It depends on how often you use it. If you use it every day straight, it will go out after about a week.
Question

How do I make a glow stick super bright, other than the microwave method?

Community Answer

Put the glow stick in really hot water. This method will make it really bright for maybe half an hour.
Question

Would boiled water speed up the defrost process for glow sticks?

Community Answer

Putting the sticks in boiled water could damage them, but you could also use a towel soaked in really hot water instead.
Question

How do I defrost the glow sticks?

Community Answer

You can let them sit at room temperature, use body heat or use a towel soaked in hot water.