Cologne Vials: Understanding Their Standard Sizes

Cologne vials come in a variety of sizes, typically ranging from 1.5ml to 30ml. These small bottles are perfect for those who like to have a variety of fragrances to choose from and are ideal for touch-ups throughout the day or when travelling. The 10ml and 5ml sizes, in particular, are convenient for carrying in a handbag.

The most common sizes for cologne vials are 1.7oz/50ml and 3.4oz/100ml, which offer a decent amount of fragrance at a reasonable price. Larger bottles, such as those at 3.4oz/100ml and above, are better value per millilitre but come with a higher upfront cost and may not be the best choice for those who like to switch up their fragrances often.

Cologne vials are typically made from glass or plastic and can be purchased individually or in bulk. They often come with a spray atomizer, a screw cap, or an orifice reducer, and a pipette or dropper for easy decanting.

Common uses of cologne vials

Cologne vials are small containers that hold a small amount of cologne, typically 1ml, 2ml, or 3ml. They are commonly used for sampling and travelling. Here are some common uses for cologne vials:

• Sampling new fragrances: Cologne vials are perfect for trying out new fragrances before committing to purchasing a larger bottle. They allow you to test the scent, its projection, and persistence before making a decision.
• Travel: These vials are small, portable, and convenient for carrying your favourite fragrance with you on the go. They are perfect for freshening up while travelling, going to the gym, or keeping in your purse or pocket.
• Custom blends: Some people use cologne vials to create their own custom fragrance blends. They can mix different scents or add essential oils to create unique, personalised fragrances.
• Gifts and favours: Small cologne vials can be given as gifts or used as wedding or party favours. They are an affordable way to share your favourite scent with others.
• Display: Some people collect cologne vials, especially vintage or unique ones, and display them as a hobby. They can be stored in a perfume/cologne organiser or displayed on a shelf.

Cologne vials are a versatile and convenient way to carry and use fragrances. Whether for sampling, travelling, or creating custom blends, these small vials have a variety of uses.

How to apply cologne from a 1ml vial

Applying cologne from a 1ml vial can be tricky, especially if it doesn't have a spray nozzle. Here is a guide on how to effectively apply cologne from a small vial:

The "tip and smear" method is a popular way to apply cologne from a vial. To do this, remove the cap and gently tip the open vial onto your finger, then dab the cologne onto your wrists, neck, or behind your ears. This method allows you to control the amount of cologne applied and avoids spills.

Another technique is to use the vial itself as an applicator. Hold the vial square against your skin and gently smear the cologne onto your wrist or neck. Keep the vial straight to prevent spills.

If you prefer a spray application, you can transfer the cologne to a small atomizer or spray bottle. This method may alter the fragrance's performance, but it can provide a more even application.

Some people also use a Q-tip or a paper clip to dip into the vial and then spread the cologne on their skin. This method is useful for high-concentration colognes or attars, as it gives you more control over the quantity applied.

When applying cologne from a 1ml vial, it is important to use a sufficient amount to accurately gauge the scent's projection and persistence. A single application may use up to half of the vial's contents.

Plastic vs glass cologne vials

Cologne vials come in a variety of sizes, with the volume of the vial ranging from 0.01 fl oz to 50ml. They are available in clear or amber glass as well as plastic.

Both glass and plastic cologne vials offer a fantastic packaging and container solution for perfume and fragrance samples, oils, and other liquids. However, there are some key differences between the two materials that are important to consider when choosing which type of vial to use.

Durability

Plastic vials are generally more durable and unbreakable than glass vials, making them a good choice for travel or on-the-go use. Glass vials, on the other hand, are more elegant and luxurious but can be more fragile.

Permeability

Glass is less permeable than plastic, making it a better choice for long-term storage and preventing the escape of aroma chemicals. Plastic vials, especially those made from HDPE, may allow scents to mingle and contaminate adjacent bottles.

Chemical Resistance

Some of the ingredients in perfumes can be corrosive to plastic, causing the bottle or lid to weaken or leak over time. Alcohol-based perfumes, in particular, can dissolve plastic, potentially altering the scent. Glass, on the other hand, is inert and safe for storing perfumes and oils without the risk of chemical reactions.

Heat Stability

Glass is heat-stable, making it a better option for transporting perfumes through varying temperatures. Plastic vials may not be as stable and could potentially melt or warp in high temperatures.

Environmental Impact

Glass vials are generally more environmentally friendly than plastic vials, as they can be recycled and reused. Plastic vials may not be recyclable and can contribute to plastic waste.

In summary, both plastic and glass cologne vials have their advantages and disadvantages. Plastic vials are more durable and unbreakable, making them a good choice for travel, while glass vials are more elegant and heat-stable. Glass is also less permeable and chemically resistant, making it a better option for long-term storage and preventing contamination. However, plastic vials may be more cost-effective and widely available, especially for sample sizes. Ultimately, the choice between plastic and glass cologne vials depends on the specific needs and preferences of the user.

How to store cologne vials

Storing cologne vials correctly is essential to maximising their longevity and preserving their scent. Here are some tips on how to store cologne vials properly:

Choosing the Right Storage Space:

• Keep the cologne vials away from direct sunlight as it can damage the perfume. Store them in a dark place, such as a closet or a drawer.
• Find a storage space with a consistent temperature, avoiding extreme heat or cold. Do not store cologne in the kitchen or bathroom, as these areas experience temperature fluctuations.
• Avoid humid areas, as humidity can affect the quality of the perfume.
• Consider storing the cologne in the refrigerator, as long as it is not too cold.

Selecting a Storage Container:

• Keep the cologne in its original bottle if it is attractive. Displaying the bottle on a shelf or tray can be aesthetically pleasing.
• Store the cologne vials in boxes to provide additional protection from heat and sunlight. Ensure that the caps are securely sealed to prevent leakage.
• For travel, transfer a small amount of cologne into a travel-sized bottle or atomizer. This reduces the risk of losing an entire bottle while travelling.

Preventing Damage:

• Always keep the cap on the bottle when not in use to prevent exposure to air, which can cause the perfume to degrade.
• Avoid shaking the cologne bottle before use, as this can introduce excess air and affect the quality.
• Limit the use of applicators, as they can introduce bacteria and oils into the bottle. Instead, opt for spraying the cologne directly onto the skin.
• Keep fragile bottles off high shelves to prevent them from falling and shattering.

Where to buy cologne vials

Cologne vials come in a variety of sizes, ranging from 0.5ml to 5ml. They can be made of glass or plastic and often come with spray tops or rollerballs for easy application.

You can buy cologne vials from a variety of online retailers, including:

Amazon

Amazon offers a wide range of cologne vials, including glass and plastic options, with different colours and caps. They offer free delivery on orders over $35.

Etsy

Etsy is another great option for purchasing cologne vials, with a variety of sellers offering unique and handmade products. You can find glass and plastic vials in various sizes and colours, and some sellers even offer customisation options.

Discount Vials

Discount Vials is a specialist retailer that offers a huge assortment of vials, including perfume samplers. They can also supply custom sizes, screen printing and labelling.

Basenotes Forum

The Basenotes Forum is an online community where users discuss fragrance and cologne. In one thread, users recommend purchasing affordable plastic atomizers from specific websites, which can be used to decant and apply cologne from sample vials.

Other Options

You can also try other online retailers, such as specialty fragrance stores or department stores, which may offer sample vials with purchases or as part of gift sets. Some brands also offer sample vials on their websites, allowing you to try different fragrances before committing to a larger bottle.

Frequently asked questions