The Ultimate Guide To Storing Your Cologne

Knowing how to store cologne properly is essential, especially if you want to get the most out of your fragrance. Whether you have an expensive or budget-friendly cologne, there are several things to consider when it comes to storage. From finding the right storage space to choosing the appropriate container, here are some tips to ensure your cologne lasts longer and smells as intended.

Keep the bottle sealed

Keeping the cologne bottle sealed is one of the most important things to consider when storing cologne. Oxygen is the worst enemy of perfumes and fragrances. Introducing a bottle of cologne to oxygen causes the scent inside to dilute and become oxidised. With more oxygen and less scent in the bottle, it is only natural that the smell will diffuse. The clock starts ticking after the first use, so be mindful of when you debut the new cologne.

Therefore, it is suggested to keep the bottle closed until you are ready to use it. If you open it to test the scent or use it just once, then it will begin to oxidise. Once the oxidation process has started, you have two years to use up the cologne before the smell starts to fade.

Leaving the bottle unhinged for even a couple of hours can start to ruin the mixture's balance and catalyse its evaporation. The less exposure cologne has to open air, the better it will keep. Make sure the cap is firmly in place when putting it back on the bottle.

Store in a dark place

When storing cologne, it is important to keep it in a dark place. Sunlight can damage the cologne bottle and its contents, so it is best to avoid direct sunlight and artificial lighting. Exposure to light can cause the structures within the cologne to break down, resulting in an unpleasant scent and a shorter shelf life. Therefore, storing cologne in dark storage places is recommended.

There are several suitable locations to store cologne. One option is to keep it in a closet, which is typically dark and away from light. Another option is to store it in a hallway or bedroom closet, as these areas are less likely to experience dramatic temperature changes. It is important to avoid storing cologne in bathrooms or kitchens due to the extreme humidity and temperature fluctuations in these rooms.

Additionally, keeping cologne in its original box can provide extra protection from light and temperature changes. Boxes can also help to cushion and protect the bottle in case of accidental drops or falls. Overall, when storing cologne, it is crucial to prioritise dark and dry locations to maintain the quality and longevity of the fragrance.

Store in a dry place

Water and moisture can cause damage to cologne, as they can cause chemical reactions that break down the structure of the scent, altering the smell. Humidity can also cause cologne to evaporate, leaving you with less of the scent to use.

Therefore, it is best to avoid rooms with fluctuating moisture levels, such as the kitchen or bathroom, as these rooms tend to hold steam. If you live in a humid place, investing in a dehumidifier is a good idea. This will help remove moisture from the air.

The ideal place to store cologne is a dry, dark area. A closet or cabinet works just fine. If you have a dehumidifier in your bedroom, for example, this can be a great place to keep your cologne.

Even if you're not storing your cologne on the bathroom counter, you still may not be storing it in the best spot. Keep it far from a hot, humid bathroom.

Avoid the bathroom

Storing cologne in the bathroom is a big no-no. The bathroom is one of the worst places to store fragrances due to the fluctuating temperatures and high levels of moisture in the air.

The heat in the bathroom constantly changes due to the use of varying water temperatures. These temperature fluctuations can cause unwanted chemical reactions in the cologne, altering its scent.

Additionally, the high humidity levels in bathrooms can cause the fragrance to break down and evaporate. The moisture in the air can also cause damage to the cologne bottle, such as peeling stickers and fading colours.

Therefore, it is best to avoid storing cologne in the bathroom and opt for a dry, dark, and temperature-controlled environment instead. A closet or cabinet outside the bathroom is a more suitable storage location.

By avoiding the bathroom and choosing an alternative storage place, you can help preserve the quality and longevity of your cologne.

Keep in the original box

Keeping cologne in its original box is one of the best ways to ensure its longevity. While it may be tempting to display the bottle, the cardboard packaging offers an extra layer of protection against direct light and moisture. It also helps to keep the bottle at a consistent temperature.

The original box also provides some cushioning if the bottle is accidentally knocked off its shelf, potentially preventing it from shattering. This is especially important if the cologne is stored on a high shelf, which is not recommended.

In addition to the box, it is advisable to store the cologne in a closet or cupboard, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. The bathroom is not a suitable storage location due to the high humidity and temperature fluctuations. Instead, a bedroom closet or hallway cupboard is preferable.

To further protect the cologne, it can be stored in an airtight container inside the box. This will ensure that no air or light reaches the bottle, minimising oxidation and prolonging the scent.

By following these storage tips, you can help ensure that your cologne remains in good condition and retains its original fragrance for as long as possible.

Frequently asked questions