Store perfume in a cool, dark, dry place away from heat, sunlight and humidity — ideally in its original box inside a drawer or cupboard. Avoid the bathroom, where heat and steam degrade the oils. Kept properly, most fragrances last 3–5 years or more.
Heat, light and air are the enemies
Sunlight and heat break down the aromatic molecules in fragrance, dulling and souring the scent. UV light is especially damaging to clear bottles. Oxygen does the same once a bottle is opened, which is why a half-empty bottle ages faster than a full one.
Where to keep it
A drawer, cupboard or wardrobe shelf — somewhere cool, dark and stable in temperature. Keep fragrances in their original boxes, which block light. The worst place is the bathroom: heat and humidity from showers degrade perfume quickly despite it being the most common spot people use.
How long does perfume last?
Unopened and stored well, perfume can last 5+ years. Once opened, expect 3–5 years for most, though heavy oriental and woody fragrances can last longer than delicate citrus ones. Signs it's turned: a sour or sharp 'off' top note, or a noticeably darker colour.
Yes, eventually. Exposed to heat, light and air, the oils degrade — the scent turns sour or flat and the colour may darken. Stored cool and dark, most perfumes last 3–5 years after opening, longer if unopened.
Should you keep perfume in the bathroom?
No. The bathroom is the worst place — heat and humidity from showers degrade the fragrance oils quickly. Store perfume in a cool, dark drawer or cupboard instead.
Should I keep perfume in the box?
Yes. The original box blocks light, which is one of the main causes of fragrance degradation. Storing the bottle in its box in a cool, dark place keeps it fresh longest.