The best way to store spices is in a **dark, dry and cool place**, or using opaque bottles. - Light will not ruin the spices (as long as it's not direct light – that one _will_ ruin them), but will fade their color, which can be an especially in those spices that are not used quickly and sit for long in the pantry. - There are theories that the light also affects the taste but I am not so sure about that; I think that they tend to lose potency after a while anyway.