The Mystery Of Slept-In Colognes: Why Do They Smell So Good?

Many people enjoy wearing fragrances to bed, and some believe it can help them sleep better. The practice is not limited to any gender, though some sources suggest it is more common among men. Some people spritz their pillows or bed linens with their chosen scent, while others apply it directly to their skin. The type of fragrance worn to bed is important, with many people opting for soothing, relaxing, or subtle scents. Some popular choices include lavender, vanilla, jasmine, and citrus.

Why wear cologne to sleep?

Wearing cologne to bed is a personal preference and can be a great way to enhance your mood and promote better sleep. It is a growing trend, with many people finding it soothing and relaxing. The right fragrance can be calming and help you unwind and de-stress. It can also be a way to enjoy your favourite scent and create positive memories as you drift off to sleep.

Some people like to wear cologne to bed as a form of aromatherapy, with scents like lavender known to aid sleep. It can also be a way to test out a new fragrance, as you can see how it wears overnight and whether you still like it in the morning.

If you are going to wear cologne to bed, it is important to choose a subtle fragrance that is not too overpowering. Citrus, lavender, vanilla, and sandalwood are popular notes for bedtime fragrances, creating a warm, comforting, and soothing aroma. It is also a good idea to apply the cologne lightly, perhaps to the inside of your elbows or on your pillow, so as not to overwhelm your senses.

Wearing cologne to bed can be a pleasant luxury and a great way to end your day and start your morning, with the scent of your favourite fragrance. It is a simple way to boost your mood and create a relaxing environment, helping you to unwind and get a good night's sleep.

So, if you are looking for a new way to relax and enhance your mood before bed, why not give it a go? You may find that wearing cologne to sleep becomes your new bedtime ritual.

Best colognes for sleep

Wearing cologne to bed is a great way to relax and enhance your sleep. The right scent can evoke feelings of happiness, serenity, and relaxation, helping you unwind and prepare for a restful night. Here are some of the best colognes to wear to bed:

Lavender-based Colognes

Lavender is known for its calming and soothing properties, making it an ideal scent for bedtime. Lavender oils have long been used for aromatherapy, aiding in better sleep. While pure lavender scents may be too strong for some, there are colognes that blend lavender with other notes to create a more rounded fragrance.

Dior Sauvage

Although typically worn as a going-out fragrance, Dior Sauvage has an inviting and endearing feel that makes it perfect for bedtime. Its enduring scent will gently accompany you as you drift off to sleep.

Jo Malone London Moonlit Chamomile Cologne

Chamomile is another scent known for its calming effects, and this Jo Malone cologne combines it with blue moonflowers for a tranquil, spa-like fragrance. It will help you unwind and melt your worries away.

Bulgari Sandalwood Magnifying Essence

Sandalwood is a scent that induces tranquility. Bulgari's Sandalwood Magnifying Essence is a simple yet elegant cologne, perfect for bedtime. The woody heart evolves into a warm, creamy veil, like a comforting hug before sleep.

Le Labo Lavande 31 Eau de Parfum

This cult-classic cologne combines lavender with bergamot, neroli, and musks for a fresh yet familiar scent. It will remind you of snuggling up with your significant other, making it the perfect prelude to a good night's sleep.

Citrus-based Colognes

Citrus scents like orange, grapefruit, lemon, and lime are known for their invigorating and energizing properties, making them ideal for starting your day. However, some citrus notes, like bergamot, can also have a calming effect when combined with the right ingredients.

Fresh Lily Jasmine Eau de Parfum

This cologne opens with sparkling bergamot, lavender, and pink pepper, then evolves into a relaxing dreamscape with notes of jasmine and cedarwood. It's the perfect scent to help you unwind and prepare for a peaceful slumber.

CK One by Calvin Klein

This iconic 90s fragrance combines green tea, musk, lemon, and jasmine. Its fresh and airy scent is perfect for bedtime, transporting you to a calm and serene space.

Tom Ford Beau de Jour EDP

This long-lasting cologne features lavender as one of its key notes, making it an excellent choice for bedtime. Its sophisticated and genteel scent will make you feel like the best version of yourself as you drift off to sleep.

In addition to these recommendations, you can also explore colognes with other calming notes such as sandalwood, bergamot, chamomile, ylang-ylang, palo santo, rose, or jasmine. Remember to apply sparingly, as too much cologne can be overwhelming and interfere with your sleep. Spritz it on your pulse points or lightly mist your pillow to create a soothing and sleep-promoting atmosphere.

How to apply cologne for sleep

Applying cologne for sleep is a great way to enhance your mood, relax, and promote better sleep. Here are some tips and suggestions to help you get the most out of your fragrance before bedtime:

Choose the Right Fragrance

Select a fragrance that is subtle, soothing, and relaxing. Avoid strong or overpowering scents that may be too intense for bedtime. Look for fragrances with calming and relaxing notes such as lavender, vanilla, bergamot, or musk. These scents can help you unwind and de-stress before sleep.

Apply Sparingly

When applying cologne for sleep, remember that a little goes a long way. You don't want the scent to be too overwhelming. Apply a small amount to your pulse points, such as your wrists, neck, or behind your ears. You can also spray once on the inside of your elbows, as this allows the scent to linger and gives you whiffs as you move throughout the night.

Consider Your Bedding

If you want your fragrance to linger on your bedding and create a soothing atmosphere, you can spray your pillow or blanket with your chosen scent. Alternatively, you can spray a fragrance on a scarf and use it as an eye mask while you sleep. This way, you'll get gentle whiffs of the scent as you drift off.

Experiment with Different Fragrances

Feel free to experiment with different fragrances to find the ones that work best for you. Some people like to wear their signature scent to bed, while others prefer to use bedtime as an opportunity to test new fragrances. You can also match your fragrance to your mood or the type of sleep you want to achieve. For example, if you're looking for a relaxing and calming sleep, opt for lavender or vanilla-based fragrances.

Combine with Other Relaxing Rituals

Combining your fragrance application with other relaxing bedtime rituals can enhance the overall experience. For example, you might apply your cologne after a warm shower, during a meditation or yoga session, or while listening to soothing music. This helps to create a multisensory experience that engages your sense of smell and other senses, promoting a deeper sense of relaxation.

Sample Suggestions

• Jo Malone Amber & Lavender Cologne: A warm and inviting blend of amber, lavender, and bergamot.
• Acqua di Parma Colonia Essenza Eau de Cologne: A calming and soothing blend of citrus, lavender, rosemary, and jasmine.
• Byredo Gypsy Water EDP: A warm and comforting blend of bergamot, pine needles, and vanilla.
• Frederic Malle Musc Ravageur: A warm and inviting blend of lavender, bergamot, and vanilla.
• Dior Sauvage: An inviting and endearing scent that is perfect for relaxing before sleep.

Remember, the key is to apply sparingly and choose fragrances that you find soothing and enjoyable. Enjoy experimenting and finding the perfect sleep colognes for your bedtime routine!

Colognes to avoid for sleep

While some people find that wearing cologne helps them sleep, others prefer to avoid it. Here are some colognes that are not ideal for sleeping:

• Tobacco Vanille by Tom Ford: Although some people enjoy this scent, others find it too heavy and overwhelming, even nauseating.
• Strong or long-lasting fragrances: Wearing a cologne with strong projection or longevity to bed may be overpowering and unnecessary, especially if you share a bed with someone who may not appreciate the scent.
• Citrus or bright fragrances: Scents with citrus or bright notes such as bergamot, lemon, or floral accords are often associated with daytime wear. These uplifting fragrances may not be ideal for winding down and relaxing before sleep.
• Challenging or niche fragrances: Some people prefer to wear their challenging or niche fragrances to bed to get more wear out of them. However, these unique and unconventional scents may be too intense or polarizing for bedtime.
• Aftershaves: Some people prefer to wear aftershaves to bed, finding them more suitable than regular fragrances.
• Intense or potent fragrances: Strong and potent fragrances may be too intense for bedtime, especially in close quarters like spooning or cuddling.
• Daytime or fresh fragrances: Scents that are typically worn during the day or are described as fresh may not be suitable for sleep. These include fragrances with aquatic, fruity, or citrus notes.
• Spicy fragrances: While some people enjoy spicy fragrances like cinnamon and saffron before bed, these warm and intense scents may be too stimulating for those seeking relaxation.

Ultimately, the choice of whether to wear cologne to bed is a personal preference. Some people enjoy the aroma therapeutic benefits, while others find it unnatural or prefer to let their skin and senses rest overnight. It is important to be mindful of those around you and choose subtle or soothing scents if you do decide to wear cologne to bed.

Cologne application tips for bedtime

Wearing cologne to bed is a great way to enhance your mood and help you relax before sleep. Here are some tips to get the most out of your bedtime fragrance:

Choose the Right Fragrance

Select a cologne that is subtle, soothing, and relaxing. Fragrances with notes of lavender, bergamot, vanilla, and citrus are popular choices for bedtime as they create a calming and comforting atmosphere. For example, Jo Malone's Amber & Lavender Cologne is a perfect blend of warm and relaxing notes.

Apply Sparingly

Apply your chosen cologne sparingly to avoid an overpowering scent that might disrupt your sleep or that of your partner. A single spray or a few spritzes are usually enough. You can also try applying the cologne to specific areas such as the inside of your elbows or your arms, especially if you sleep hugging a pillow. This way, you can still enjoy the fragrance without it becoming too strong.

Experiment with Different Application Methods

If you don't want to apply cologne directly to your skin, there are other ways to enjoy your fragrance in bed. You can spray it on your pillow, scarf, or an eye mask. Alternatively, you can opt for scented lotions or oils, such as beard oil or lavender vanilla oil, which can be applied in smaller amounts.

Use Fragrances with Memories

Wearing a cologne with positive memories attached to it can enhance your mood and make you feel relaxed and happy as you drift off to sleep.

Test New Fragrances

If you're testing a new cologne, applying it before bed can be a great way to see how it wears throughout the night and whether you'll enjoy it long-term.

Remember, the key to wearing cologne to bed is to keep it subtle and relaxing. Enjoy experimenting with different fragrances and application methods to find what works best for you and helps you get a good night's rest.

Frequently asked questions