The Pros And Cons Of Keeping Cologne Boxes

Whether you should keep cologne boxes depends on your reasons for wanting to do so. If you're looking to preserve the scent of your cologne, then keeping it in its original box is a good idea. This is because boxes protect the cologne from heat and sunlight, which can cause the molecular structure of the scent to break down over time. Additionally, keeping cologne in boxes can make stacking and storing them easier, especially if you have limited shelf or cupboard space. However, if you're looking to display your cologne collection aesthetically, you may want to consider other options, such as a drawer or cupboard with a door.

Protection from light

Keeping cologne in its box can help protect it from light, which is the "number one enemy of fragrance molecules". Sunlight can damage a cologne bottle, and colognes tend to last longer when stored in darker places.

Visible light is not the danger; UV light is. UV light consists of UVA, UVB, and UVC rays. UVC rays are filtered out almost entirely by the atmosphere, but UVA and UVB rays are what cause sunburns and skin damage. Standard window glass blocks out nearly all UVB rays, but does little to block UVA rays. About 75% of UVA rays get through, which is not ideal for cologne. However, adding a shade to the window can help reduce the amount of UVA rays that get through.

Artificial lights do not pose a threat to cologne because their UV emissions are almost non-existent, and they generate virtually no heat.

Displaying cologne bottles on a shelf, out of direct sunlight, is generally considered safe. However, if you plan on keeping your colognes for several decades, even the minuscule number of UV rays that sneak into the bottle over time can add up and alter the fragrance.

To protect cologne from light, it is recommended to store it in a dark, dry spot away from extreme temperatures, such as in a bedroom or hallway closet. The bathroom should be avoided due to the heat and humidity from the shower, which can affect the quality of the cologne. Another option is to store cologne in the refrigerator, as long as it is not too cold.

For extra protection, cologne can be placed in a box before storing it, which will help shield it from sunlight and fluctuating temperatures.

Ease of stacking and storage

Storing cologne bottles in their boxes can make stacking and storage easier and more efficient. Boxes can help to protect cologne bottles from damage and keep them safely stacked in a cupboard or closet. This is especially important if you have limited storage space or are looking to maximise the use of your storage area. Boxes can also help to protect cologne bottles from light, which can cause the fragrance to degrade over time.

Keeping cologne bottles in their boxes can also help to standardise the shape and size of the items you are storing. This makes it easier to stack and store them neatly and efficiently, especially if you have multiple bottles of different shapes and sizes. Boxes can also help to protect the bottles from accidental damage, such as knocking against each other and potentially breaking if they are stacked together without protection.

Boxes can also be useful for stacking and storing cologne bottles in areas that do not have dedicated shelving or storage units. For example, you could stack boxes of cologne bottles in a corner of a room, in a wardrobe or even under a bed. This can be a great way to utilise space in a small home or apartment, or if you simply want to keep your cologne collection out of sight.

Additionally, boxes can make it easier to transport cologne bottles if you need to move them between storage areas or take them with you when travelling. Boxes provide a convenient way to carry multiple bottles at once and can help to protect the bottles from damage during transport. They can also provide a discreet way to transport cologne, especially if you are concerned about potential theft or simply want to keep the contents private.

Overall, keeping cologne boxes for stacking and storage purposes can be a practical and efficient way to organise your cologne collection, maximise storage space and protect your bottles from damage and degradation.

Preventing degradation from sunlight

Sunlight can cause significant damage to cologne and perfume bottles, so it is important to take steps to prevent degradation from sunlight if you want your fragrances to last longer. Here are some ways to do that:

Choose the Right Storage Space

Select a storage area away from direct sunlight and with minimal exposure to light in general. A closet or a drawer is ideal for this purpose. If you have no choice but to store your cologne in a space with windows, ensure that the bottles are not in direct line with sunlight.

Store in Original Boxes

The original boxes that colognes come in are designed to protect the bottles from sunlight. Therefore, it is a good idea to keep your cologne bottles in their original boxes, especially if you don't have a cupboard or shelf to store them in.

Keep Away from Heat Sources

Avoid storing your colognes in areas with high temperatures or dramatic temperature changes. Do not store them in the kitchen or bathroom, as these areas tend to get hot during cooking or when people shower or bathe. Instead, opt for a closet in the living room or hallway.

Consider Using a Dehumidifier

Humidity can negatively impact the quality of your cologne. If you live in a humid climate, consider investing in a dehumidifier to help regulate the moisture levels in your storage area.

Refrigerate with Caution

Some people find success in storing cologne in the refrigerator, as it maintains a consistent temperature. However, if your refrigerator tends to freeze items, do not store your cologne there, as extremely cold temperatures can also damage the fragrance.

Maintaining the quality of the product

To maintain the quality of your cologne, it is important to consider the impact of various environmental factors on the liquid inside the bottle. One of the most crucial factors is light, especially sunlight, which can cause degradation of the fragrance molecules and alter the scent. Therefore, it is recommended to store cologne in a dark place, away from direct sunlight. This could be in a drawer, a closet, or a box.

Another factor to consider is temperature. Extreme temperatures, whether too hot or too cold, can affect the quality of the cologne. It is best to store cologne in a place with a consistent temperature, avoiding areas with dramatic temperature changes, such as near windows or drafty areas. The ideal temperature for storing cologne is between 12 and 22 degrees Celsius.

Humidity is another enemy of fragrance. Moisture in the air can affect the quality of the cologne, so it is important to store it in a dry place. Avoid storing cologne in humid areas, such as bathrooms, as the steam from showers can cause damage. If you have a dehumidifier, consider storing your cologne in that room.

Additionally, oxygen can affect the quality of the cologne over time. To prevent this, always keep the lid or cap on the bottle tightly sealed. This will also help prevent leakage if the bottle is stored in a box or drawer.

While it may be tempting to display cologne bottles, especially those with attractive packaging, it is best to prioritise the quality of the product by storing them in a cool, dark, and dry place, such as a box, to prolong their lifespan.

Resale value

When it comes to the resale value of cologne, proper storage is key. Keeping the cologne in its original box can help protect it from various factors that could degrade its quality over time, such as heat, sunlight, and humidity. Sunlight, in particular, can damage the fragrance molecules and alter the scent, so storing the cologne in a dark place is crucial. Additionally, consistent temperatures are important, as extreme heat or cold can affect the quality of the cologne.

The kitchen and bathroom are not ideal storage locations due to the potential for heat and humidity. Instead, a closet or drawer in a bedroom or hallway is a better option, as these areas typically have more stable temperatures and are less humid. It is also recommended to keep the cologne bottles in a box within the storage area for added protection. This helps shield the bottles from sunlight and temperature fluctuations.

Taking these storage precautions can help prolong the lifespan of the cologne, maintaining its quality and potentially increasing its resale value. Keeping the cologne in its original box, in a cool, dark, and stable environment, will ensure that it retains its fragrance and doesn't spoil.

Additionally, it is important to keep the lid on the cologne bottle tightly sealed. This prevents oxygen from entering the bottle and spoiling the contents. It is also advisable to avoid shaking the bottle before use, as this can expose the cologne to excess air, which can be detrimental.

By following these storage guidelines, you can help maintain the quality and longevity of your cologne, which may enhance its resale value if you decide to sell it in the future.

Frequently asked questions