But if you're used to storing butter in the refrigerator, you might wonder if keeping it at room temperature is safe. Safety Issues When Storing Butter At Room TemperatureFood safety guidelines from the USDA and FDA recommend storing butter in the refrigerator, and most butter manufacturers echo that advice to keep your butter as fresh as possible. That and the convenience of softened butter are two good reasons why butter is often stored at room temperature in certain households. How Long Butter Can Safely Sit At Room TemperatureIn a cool, dry place, butter can safely sit out at room temperature longer than you might expect:Unsalted butter: Typically stays fresh for several days at room temperature. The Best Way To Store Butter At Room TemperatureFor the safest countertop storage, use a butter dish with a lid or butter crock to protect the butter against air and light exposure.