Heidi Norton
Many people have old bottles of perfume lying around that they no longer want. Some may wonder if it is possible to donate old perfume to those in need. While some second-hand shops do not accept opened bottles of perfume, there are other options for donating or selling old perfume. Additionally, empty perfume bottles can be recycled into lamps, vases, or used as decanters.
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What You'll Learn
Donating old perfume to a women's shelter
Many women's shelters accept donations of perfume, along with other beauty products. Organisations such as Project Beauty Share, Share Your Beauty, and Dress for Success are dedicated to donating beauty products to women in need. These organisations accept unused products, including moisturisers, deodorants, foundation, makeup brushes, and fragrances.
Some shelters have specific requirements for donations. For example, Dress for Success requires unopened cosmetics and toiletries with an expiration date of at least six months in the future, along with new hygiene and grooming products. It is important to check with individual shelters or organisations before donating to ensure that they can accept your contribution.
In addition to women's shelters, there are other options for donating perfume and beauty products. Local mutual aid organisations or group homes may also accept donations of perfume samples and other beauty items. Some charities, such as Beauty Bus, accept new and sealed products, but it is important to note that they do not accept perfumes.
It is worth noting that some organisations may not accept used fragrances, as mentioned by a user on Fragrantica Club, who states that Goodwill did not take their used fragrances. However, women's shelters may be more accommodating, as users on the same forum mention that administrators at these shelters are happy to pinpoint individuals to receive donations.
Overall, donating perfume and beauty products to women's shelters or similar organisations is a great way to support women in need and help them regain their dignity.
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Selling old perfume bottles to collectors
While some charities do accept donations of perfume, they often cannot take opened bottles. If you have old perfume bottles that you would like to part with, selling them to collectors could be a good option. Here are some tips and suggestions for selling old perfume bottles to collectors:
Identify the Type and Value of Your Bottles
Before selling, it is important to identify the type and potential value of your perfume bottles. Collectors often seek out vintage perfume bottles manufactured by renowned companies such as Lalique, Baccarat, Cristalleries de Nancy, and Cristal Romesnil. Look for markings or signatures on the bottom of the bottle, as these can indicate the manufacturer and date of production. Older bottles from the 1930s to 1940s may have lot numbers, bottle shape numbers, or patent numbers embossed on the glass base. The style of the label and box can also provide clues to the age of the bottle. Additionally, some bottles may have markings indicating their country of origin, such as "Made in France" or "USA."
Find Knowledgeable Collectors or Auction Houses
One option is to locate knowledgeable collectors whose collection aligns with the type of perfume bottles you have. You can also review auction catalogs, such as the Perfume Bottles Auction by Ken Leach, to get an idea of realized prices for similar items. Regional and larger auction houses that specialize in antiques and vanity items can attract a wider range of buyers and may be a good option for selling your bottles.
Direct-to-Dealer Sales
For middle-tier items, you can create a flyer listing the perfume bottles you have for sale, along with dealer prices. Distribute these flyers to local antiques mall dealers or contact IPBA members who are also dealers of perfume bottles and vanity items.
Estate Sales and Consignment Shops
Estate sale companies and consignment shops are another option for middle-tier and lower-end items. Estate sale companies typically charge a commission based on a percentage of gross sales, which can range from 35% to 50%. Consignment shops may also be willing to buy items outright or take consignments.
Online and In-Person Markets
For middle-tier and lower-end items, you can rent a showcase at your local antiques mall or set up a stall at a larger flea or collectors' market. Online auctions such as eBay, Ruby Lane, and Etsy are also great options for reaching a wider audience of collectors.
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Using old perfume bottles as decanters
Decanting perfume involves transferring the contents of a larger perfume bottle into smaller, often travel-sized, containers. This process makes it easier to carry your favourite scents and allows you to share or gift samples of your perfume collection. Old perfume bottles can be used as decanters, provided they are thoroughly cleaned and dried before refilling. Here are some steps and tips to guide you through the process:
Choosing the Right Bottle
When selecting an old perfume bottle for decanting, opt for glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting caps to prevent evaporation and leakage. Glass bottles are generally preferable as they offer better protection against light and air, which can degrade the perfume over time. They are also reusable and more eco-friendly than plastic alternatives. Ensure that the bottle is thoroughly cleaned and dried before refilling to avoid contaminating your new perfume.
Tools and Techniques
You will need a few essential tools to ensure a smooth and efficient decanting process:
- Funnels—A small funnel with a narrow spout helps you pour the perfume accurately without spilling.
- Pipettes or Atomizers—These are useful for transferring the perfume from the original bottle to the smaller containers. Atomizers allow you to spray the perfume, mimicking the original application method.
- Syringes—The syringe method is accurate as it allows you to measure the exact amount you are transferring. However, be careful not to insert the needle down the atomizer tube, as it can cause damage. Instead, fit the mouth of the syringe over the atomizer tube and withdraw the perfume.
Labelling and Storage
Clearly label each decanted bottle with the name of the perfume, its brand, and any other relevant information. This helps you quickly identify the scent without opening each bottle. Store your decanted perfumes away from direct light and heat sources to prolong their shelf life.
Legal Considerations
While decanting perfumes for personal use or sharing with friends and family is generally accepted, selling decanted perfumes or engaging in decanting as a business may be restricted or require authorization. Familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations related to fragrance decanting in your jurisdiction, as well as any brand-specific guidelines or restrictions on decanting their products.
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Using old perfume as an air freshener
It is not advisable to donate opened bottles of perfume as most places do not accept unsealed toiletries and cosmetics. However, there are several ways to use old perfume as an air freshener.
One simple method is to spritz or spray the perfume directly into the air or onto fabrics like clothes, carpets, and bedsheets. You can also spray it onto a handkerchief and put it in the dryer with your laundry, or onto tissue paper and stuff it inside handbags, pant legs, and sleeves to maintain a fresh scent.
Another option is to create a homemade perfume spray by mixing 10ml of anhydrous ethanol with 50ml of distilled water in a mist bottle and adding a few drops of your chosen perfume. This spray can be used on various surfaces and fabrics and will last for about two weeks.
For a more subtle fragrance, you can apply the perfume to dry cotton balls, unscented dried flowers, or tissues and place them in drawers, closets, or under your pillow. A similar approach is to dab cotton balls with perfume and put them in a small cotton bag to eliminate foul odours in enclosed spaces like closets or backpacks.
Additionally, you can use perfume to freshen the air by applying it directly to a lightbulb. When the lightbulb heats up, it will diffuse the fragrance.
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Donating old perfume to a charity shop
Donating your old perfume to a charity shop is a great way to ensure that it finds a new home and doesn't go to waste. Many charities accept new or gently used perfumes, and some even offer free collection services to make the process convenient for donors.
When donating old perfume, it is essential to ensure that it is in good condition and has not expired. Charities will typically only accept donations that are sealed and in their original packaging, with at least six months until their expiration date. Some charities may also have specific requirements or restrictions on the types of items they can accept, so it is always a good idea to check with the charity before donating.
In the UK, organisations like Anglo Doorstep Collections offer a simple way to donate unwanted toiletries and perfumes. They work with various charities and allow donors to choose which charity they want to support when booking a collection. This option is ideal for those who want a hassle-free way to donate and support a good cause.
Another option for donating old perfume is to reach out to local women's shelters or charities that support disadvantaged women. These organisations often accept donations of toiletries, makeup, and perfume, as these items can be a luxury for women who are trying to live on a limited budget or transition back into the workforce.
It is worth noting that some larger charity shops, such as the British Red Cross, may have more stringent rules about accepting certain items, including used cosmetics and perfumes, due to safety, hygiene, and legal reasons. Therefore, it is always advisable to contact your local charity shop or refer to their website to understand their specific guidelines before donating.
Overall, donating old perfume to a charity shop is a thoughtful way to give someone else the joy of a fragrance they may not otherwise be able to afford while also reducing waste and supporting a good cause.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the shop and whether the perfume bottle has been opened. Many charity shops do not accept opened bottles of perfume, lotion, or makeup. However, some charity shops may take them, so it is worth asking around at your local thrift stores.
If you are unable to donate your old perfume, you could give it away to friends or family, sell it online, or repurpose the bottle as a vase, lamp, or air freshener.
You can sell your old perfume on websites such as eBay, Craigslist, Vinted, or Facebook Marketplace. However, eBay and Vinted have policies against listing used beauty products, so you may need to list your perfume as "new, other" and describe it accurately in the description.
