Colognes In Bathrooms: Good Or Bad Idea?

Keeping colognes in the bathroom is generally not recommended. The humidity from the shower or bath can cause oxidation, altering the scent and colour of the cologne. The ideal place to store cologne is in a cool, dark, dry area, such as a closet or cabinet.

Humidity and temperature changes

The bathroom is a place of frequent temperature and humidity changes. After a hot shower, the bathroom becomes warm and humid. This can affect the quality of cologne stored in the bathroom. However, if the cologne is stored in a cabinet or corner safe from steam, it may be acceptable.

It is best to store cologne in a cool, dark, and dry place. A closet or cabinet in a hallway or bedroom is ideal. Some people even store cologne in the refrigerator to maintain a consistent temperature.

Sunlight exposure

Artificial light does not pose a threat to fragrances as it generates virtually no heat and has near-nonexistent UV emissions.

It is recommended to store fragrances in a dry, dark area, such as a closet or cabinet. Some people choose to store their fragrances in the fridge, but this is not a realistic option for everyone.

Heat damage

Heat, light, humidity, and oxygen can all cause damage to cologne. However, colognes are not as fragile as many people think.

Heat, like light, breaks down the chemical bonds that give a cologne its scent. Direct heat is not only bad for the fragrance, but it can also warp or melt plastic bottles. Even lower heat over the long term breaks down cologne. It is crucial to keep cologne away from any heat vents or radiators.

Extreme temperature fluctuations can also negatively impact cologne. Removing cologne from a refrigerator and then replacing it after use can destroy the cologne. While a cool environment is best, anything that is significantly colder than room temperature puts stress on the cologne.

The bathroom tends to warm up when people shower or bathe. The heat from a shower is unlikely to cook cologne, but temperature fluctuations over time are not good for cologne.

Consistent temperature

While it may be convenient to store colognes in the bathroom, it is not ideal. Bathrooms are often subject to temperature fluctuations, especially if you take hot showers or baths. These temperature changes can affect the quality of your cologne over time.

The ideal storage temperature for cologne is room temperature, which is typically around 20-25°C (68-77°F). Storing cologne in a cool, dark place, such as a closet or cabinet, is recommended. Keeping cologne at a consistent temperature will help preserve its scent and prevent it from deteriorating.

Some people suggest storing cologne in the refrigerator to maintain a consistent temperature. However, others argue that the constant temperature fluctuations from removing the cologne from the fridge to use it and then replacing it can be just as detrimental as storing it in a hot bathroom. If you choose to store your cologne in the fridge, ensure that it is not too cold, as extremely low temperatures can also affect the quality of the cologne.

Overall, it is best to avoid storing cologne in the bathroom, especially if it is exposed to direct sunlight or extreme temperature changes. Instead, opt for a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature, such as a closet or cabinet, to maintain the quality and longevity of your cologne.

Direct light

Some sources suggest that it is direct sunlight that is the real enemy, and that artificial light is not so much of an issue. One source suggests that unless you are keeping fragrances under a grow light, the amount of time that artificial lights are on is not something to be concerned about. However, another source states that direct light is the key factor, and that sunlight can cause fragrances to spoil.

To avoid direct light, it is recommended to store fragrances in a dark place, such as a closet, drawer, or cabinet.

Frequently asked questions