Free Cologne Samples: Where To Get Them?

There are many ways to get your hands on free cologne samples, from visiting beauty stores and department stores to requesting them online or via social media. Beauty retailers like Ulta and Sephora often have free samples available, and department stores such as Nordstrom, Sax, Macy's, and Bloomingdales offer fragrance counters where you can chat with salespeople for testers. Additionally, you can visit the official website of a cologne brand and request a sample through customer service email, website inquiry forms, or social media channels.

Another way to obtain free samples is by subscribing to newsletters or following brands on social media. Many brands offer exclusive deals, coupon codes, or giveaways to their subscribers and followers. You can also look for free samples in magazines, which often include perfume or cologne inserts. If you're willing to put in some extra effort, you can write reviews for websites like HomeTesterClub, which will send you samples in exchange for your feedback.

In-store

If you're looking to get your hands on some free cologne samples in-store, there are several options to try.

Firstly, you could visit a beauty store. Cosmetic retailers like Ulta and Sephora often have a large stock of men's cologne and may provide free samples. It's worth noting that you're more likely to get a sample at Sephora, and the number is usually limited to three, although this may vary depending on the store. The samples provided are often new products supplied by the brands, so you may not have a wide range to choose from.

Another option is to head to a department store. Stores like Nordstrom, Saks, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale's, Macy's, and Sax usually have fragrance counters where you can request a tester. During a scent event at Nordstrom, for example, you can receive deluxe-sized samples to try. When visiting a department store, it's best to approach the counter with a genuine interest in finding a new scent, rather than simply asking for a free sample. This will increase your chances of walking away with a travel-sized bottle instead of just a test strip.

Some stores also offer free samples with other purchases. For instance, when ordering from Sephora or Ulta, you can add up to three free samples of cologne to your cart. These will likely be new product launches, but it's an easy way to build up a collection of samples.

You can also try asking at a beauty specialty store, such as Sephora or Ulta. Their staff will be more than happy to provide you with a sample vial of men's cologne upon request.

Online

There are many ways to get free cologne samples online. Here are some methods:

Visit Online Beauty Retailers and Department Stores

Beauty stores such as Ulta and Sephora often have a large stock of men's cologne, sometimes with free samples. You can also order online, and Sephora will offer two free samples with any purchase.

Department stores like Nordstrom, Sax, Macy's, and Bloomingdales have fragrance counters where you can ask for a tester or sample.

Go to the Official Brand Website

Sometimes, fragrance brands will have a free sample option on their website to test out their latest product. In most cases, you will need to reach out to the brand directly via customer service email, a website inquiry form, or their official social media channels to request a sample.

Check Out Magazines

Print media, such as magazines, often include free cologne samples. These are usually hidden behind a flap, so keep your eyes peeled!

Sign Up for Newsletters

Both brands and beauty publications send out exclusive offers, including free samples, coupon codes, or giveaways to their mailing lists, so signing up is a great way to stay in the loop.

Use Hashtags on Social Media

Search relevant hashtags on social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to find giveaways and special offers from brands. For example, #sopost on social media will show a collection of posts with freebies that can be redeemed in exchange for filling out a simple sign-up form.

Write Cologne Reviews

Websites like HomeTesterClub will send you a sample product in exchange for an honest review on their platform. You can also propose new products to review, like upcoming colognes, and may have the chance to receive a sample.

Trade Your Contact Information

Many companies promote sponsored content on social media, offering freebies in exchange for filling out a simple sign-up form.

Buy Individual Samples

You can buy individual samples from luxe lines like Le Labo online, with free shipping.

Try a Subscription Box

Sign up for a fragrance-only subscription box, like Scentbox or Scentbird, which are a great way to build your knowledge of on-trend perfumes. These boxes often include coupon codes for full-size purchases.

Social media

To start, try searching Twitter for relevant hashtags such as #colognesample, #fragrance, or #fragrancefreebie. You can also try searching for specific cologne brands you are interested in, followed by the keyword "sample". Engage with users by asking if they have samples to give away or trade, or if they know of any promotions or giveaways happening.

Another strategy is to follow popular fragrance reviewers or influencers on Twitter. They often have a large following and may host giveaways or contests for their audience, which could include free cologne samples. Additionally, keep an eye out for Twitter users discussing cologne or fragrance sampling services. These services typically provide a variety of samples for a small fee, but sometimes they offer promotions or discounts that could make the deal even sweeter.

Lastly, don't be afraid to directly tweet at cologne or fragrance brands. Sometimes, they may respond with information about upcoming promotions or even send you samples directly, especially if you have a large following or influence in the fragrance community. Remember to be polite and respectful in your interactions, and always review Twitter's policies to ensure your tweets are within their guidelines.

Newsletters

Newsletter Sign-ups for Free Cologne Samples

• Brand Newsletters: Many brands offer exclusive deals and promotions to their subscribers. Signing up for newsletters from specific cologne brands can increase your chances of receiving free samples. Newer brands, in particular, are often eager to distribute samples to gain recognition. Keep an eye out for brands launching new fragrances, as they may offer free samples upon request or through specific resellers.
• Beauty Publications: Besides brand newsletters, subscribing to beauty publications or websites can also be advantageous. For example, signing up for the Ulta newsletter provides opportunities to obtain free men's cologne samples. Beautinow, a beauty website, offers a €5 coupon upon newsletter subscription, which can be used to order a free sample.
• VIP Email Lists: Some brands have VIP email lists that offer exclusive access to samples of their newest fragrances. For example, Chanel, Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana, Ralph Lauren, Dior, Estée Lauder, Gucci, Calvin Klein, Marc Jacobs, Jo Malone, and YSL Beauty are known to reward their subscribers with free samples.
• Retailer Newsletters: Newsletters from major beauty retailers or department stores can also provide notifications about free cologne samples. For instance, FragranceNet offers free cologne samples with purchases over $50, and their newsletter includes exclusive offers and discounts.
• Timing: Keep in mind that certain times of the year, such as the holiday season, are more conducive to receiving free samples. During these shopping seasons, stores may be more generous with sample handouts.
• Engagement: Actively engaging with newsletters can also increase your chances of receiving samples. For instance, responding to surveys or participating in brand loyalty programs may make you eligible for exclusive offers.
• Social Media Presence: In addition to newsletters, following brands on social media platforms can keep you informed about the latest promotions and giveaways. Interacting with brands by liking, commenting, or sharing their posts may also increase your chances of receiving free samples.

Magazines

If you're looking for a more reliable source of free cologne samples, consider signing up for online sampling programs like SampleSource and PinchMe. These programs offer a wide range of free cologne samples from top brands. You can also check out beauty magazines, which sometimes include sample fragrances. Additionally, you can approach department store counters for in-person samples.

Frequently asked questions