How long does perfume last?

Have you ever wondered how to tell if a perfume is still good? Whether you found a bottle of a long-forgotten summer scent while cleaning out the depths of your closet or you're the proud owner of an entire perfume collection, this article will tell you everything about the shelf life of fragrances and how to tell if a perfume has gone bad.

Perfume durability: How long does a perfume last?

The shelf life of perfumes depends on various factors. In general, an unopened perfume will last for 3 to 5 years if stored properly . High-quality perfumes can last for more than 5 years. However, this does not mean that the perfume will smell the same 5 years later as it did when first applied. Fragrances can change over time. Shelf life depends on factors such as fragrance concentration, the quality of the ingredients, and storage conditions. It is also important whether the perfume is already opened or still sealed.

The fragrance concentration of a perfume also influences its shelf life. Perfume with the highest concentration (also known as extrait de parfum) typically has a longer shelf life of several years, while eau de parfum and eau de toilette with lower concentrations have a somewhat shorter shelf life. Eau de cologne or eau de cologne with the lowest concentration generally has the shortest shelf life.

How long does perfume last unopened?

You can use an unopened eau de parfum for three to five years without any problems. Eau de toilettes last even a bit longer. Make sure to store your fragrances in a cool, dark, and dry place.

How long does an opened perfume last?

When you open a perfume, it comes into contact with air. The oxidation process causes the chemical composition of your fragrance to change over time, which in turn causes the scent, color, and shelf life to gradually change. An opened perfume has a shelf life of approximately 1 to 3 years . The best way to counteract this aging process is to ensure that your fragrances are stored correctly.

Can a perfume go bad?

The short answer: Yes! Over time, the quality and scent of a perfume can deteriorate—especially if it's not stored properly. Unlike food, a fragrance doesn't go bad overnight. Rather, it changes with age.

This is how you can tell that a perfume is no longer good:

Perfume storage: Where should I store perfume?

No matter whether you prefer fresh, woody, citrus or fresh scents – your perfume should always be one thing: high quality and authentic.

With proper storage and a few tricks, you can easily extend the shelf life of your fragrances. Store your perfume in a dry, dark place—ideally away from sunlight.

3 tips for long-lasting durability

How to make your perfumes last longer:

1. Proper storage

The perfect place for your fragrances is cool, dry, and dark. A good spot is a drawer in the bedroom, for example. Unlike the bathroom, the temperature here is constant.

2. Close the bottle tightly

As soon as your perfume comes into contact with oxygen, the aging process begins. Therefore, you should always make sure the bottle is tightly closed—this also prevents your fragrance from leaking.

3. Do not shake

Not only sun and extreme temperature fluctuations can damage your fragrance, but too much movement can also accelerate the aging process. Therefore, never shake perfumes. Travel sprays or smaller travel bottles are best for traveling. You can find more tips for perfect storage here .