How to Store Perfume (The Right Way)

Perfume is highly sensitive to environmental changes. The three biggest threats to your collection are light (especially UV light), heat, and humidity. When a fragrance is exposed to these elements, the delicate chemical bonds begin to break down. You will typically notice the top notes—especially citrus and light florals—disappearing first. The fragrance may also darken in color and eventually develop a sour or 'turned' smell.

The bathroom is the single worst place in your house to store fragrance. The constant fluctuations in heat and humidity from the shower act like an accelerated aging chamber for perfume. While it might be convenient to spray right after you shower, you are significantly reducing the lifespan of the bottle.

The perfect place to store perfume is a dark, cool, dry space with a consistent temperature. A closet shelf, a dedicated dresser drawer, or a cabinet in your bedroom are ideal. If you want to go the extra mile, keeping the bottles in their original boxes provides an additional layer of protection against light and temperature fluctuations.