Florida Water Cologne: Safe Spritz For Clothes?

Florida Water is a cologne that has been around for more than 200 years. It has a large fan base, particularly within Black American, Caribbean, and Latin American communities, due to its spiritual cleansing properties. It is often used to ward off bad energy and bring good luck. But is it safe for clothes? Florida Water is flammable and contains a high percentage of alcohol, artificial dyes, and other ingredients that may cause skin irritation or allergies. Therefore, it is recommended to test it on a small area of the fabric first before applying it to your clothes.

Is Florida Water toxic?

Florida Water is a type of cologne that has been used in spiritual practices since the 1800s. It is believed to ward off bad luck, protect from negative energy and spirits, and bring good luck and positive energy.

Florida Water is made by mixing vodka with herbs, spices, and essential oils, such as basil, thyme, rosemary, citrus peels, flower petals, cinnamon, and cloves. It is also often sold online by various sellers.

While some people claim that Florida Water has mental and physical benefits, almost holy, and that it is made from the water of the fountain of youth in Florida, these are just myths. Florida Water does not have any miraculous properties, and the fountain of youth is just a fable.

However, Florida Water does have some interesting benefits. It can be used as an astringent and skin lotion, soothing the skin and leaving a refreshing smell. It can also be used to soothe insect bites and relieve itching. It can be added to bathwater, shampoo, or laundry for a refreshing scent and to ward off bad energy.

Despite the myths surrounding it, Florida Water is not toxic. The environmental researchers at EWG found that it does not have any toxic properties. However, it may cause allergic reactions and eye irritation, but this is a risk with most non-clean fragrances. Therefore, it is advised to test Florida Water on your skin before purchasing it.

Florida Water's versatility

Florida Water is a versatile product with a range of applications beyond its use as a cologne. It is particularly popular in spiritual practices and as a household cleaning product.

Spiritual Uses

Florida Water is used in spiritual practices, including hoodoo, Vodoun, Santeria, and witchcraft. It is believed to have protective and cleansing properties, helping to ward off negative energy and bring good luck. It is often used to cleanse spaces, altars, and crystals, and can be added to spiritual baths or floor washes. Some people also use it to attract good spirits and make connections with ancestors.

Personal Uses

Florida Water can be worn as a cologne or perfume, providing a delicate, refreshing scent. It can also be used as an aftershave, a skin toner, or an astringent. Some people add it to their shampoo or conditioner for a refreshing hair scent. It can also be applied to insect bites to soothe itching.

Household Uses

Florida Water is often added to laundry to cleanse and bless clothing and bedding, and to prevent nightmares. It can be used as a floor wash or to cleanse countertops and other surfaces. It can also be used to create a refreshing room spray or added to a diffuser to promote a positive atmosphere.

Other Uses

Florida Water can be used to cool down on hot days. It is mixed with water and ice, and the mixture is then applied to the skin using a rag. It can also be used to relieve muscle pain by mixing it with iced water and applying it with a towel.

In summary, Florida Water is a versatile product that can be used in various ways, from spiritual practices to personal care and household cleaning. Its pleasant scent and purported spiritual properties make it a popular choice for many.

Florida Water's history

Florida Water is an American version of Eau de Cologne, a type of cologne that was first introduced in New York City by perfumer Robert Murray in 1808. The cologne was initially created as a perfume and was advertised as "The Richest and most Popular of all Perfumes" in the late 19th century. Over time, it became incorporated into spiritual and magical rituals, particularly in South American and Caribbean cultures.

The name "Florida Water" refers to the fabled Fountain of Youth, which is said to be located in Florida, as well as the floral nature of the scent. The origin of the name is debated, with some believing it comes from the Spanish word "florido," meaning "full of flowers."

In the 1830s, businessman David Lanman joined Murray's company, and in 1853, another businessman, George Kemp, came on board, leading to the company's name change to Lanman & Kemp. The company still operates today and is family-owned.

Florida Water has a unique formula that combines an alcohol base with water and a mix of essential oils, giving it a citrusy, fresh, and spicy scent. It includes notes of sweet orange, lavender, clove, cinnamon, bergamot, rose, and orange flower. The exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, but it is believed to be the same as the original 1808 formula.

The cologne has become a multi-use product, used not only as a fragrance but also for household and spiritual purposes. It can be added to baths, used as an aftershave, or incorporated into laundry routines. Florida Water is also used in spiritual practices for cleansing and protection, particularly in communities with African influences, such as Black American, Caribbean, and Latin American communities.

Florida Water has a rich history and has woven itself into cultures worldwide, with a loyal following for over 200 years. Its versatility and refreshing scent continue to enchant generations.

Florida Water's scent

Florida Water is a light, floral and citrusy scent with lemon overtones. It is often compared to 4711 Eau de Cologne, but has notable aromatic differences. While 4711 unfolds as citrus and fresh bursts, Florida Water starts with a gentler, more aromatic smell before the heart opens to a soft lavender floral note. It ends with the scent of sweet orange, nutmeg and cloves.

Florida Water is a classic, old-school fragrance. It is often described as a soft, gentle, romantic and nostalgic scent, with a subtle, intimate wake. It is particularly well-suited to mature gentlemen with traditional roots and an old-school attitude.

The scent is versatile and can be used in a variety of ways, including as a cologne, a bath fragrance, a room spray, a fabric refresher, an insect repellent, an aftershave, a hair rinse, a toner, a skin lotion, a massage oil, a shampoo additive, and a laundry rinse.

Florida Water's popularity

Florida Water has enjoyed enduring popularity since its creation in 1808 by perfumer Robert Murray. In the late 19th century, it was advertised as "The Richest of all Perfumes" and "The most Popular Perfume in the World". While it may no longer be considered the most popular perfume, it has retained its popularity within specific communities, particularly in South Florida, New York, Houston, and the Caribbean.

Florida Water is an American version of Eau de Cologne, with a citrusy scent that emphasises sweet orange and adds spicy notes like clove. Its name refers to the mythical Fountain of Youth, said to be located in Florida, and its floral nature. Florida Water is considered a unisex scent and was recommended in late 19th-century etiquette manuals as an appropriate fragrance for both men and women.

In addition to its use as a perfume, Florida Water has become a staple in spiritual practices across the United States, Latin America, and the Caribbean. It is believed to have cleansing and protective properties and is used to ward off negative energy and attract good luck. Florida Water is also used in rituals, such as cleansing altars, attracting ancestral spirits, and enhancing romantic relationships.

Florida Water's versatility extends beyond spiritual practices. It can be used as an aftershave, added to laundry for a fresh scent, or even used to soothe insect bites. Its high alcohol content, at around 81%, also makes it a suitable hand sanitiser.

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