Perfume is more perishable than most people assume, and almost all of the damage comes from just two things: heat and light.

Store perfume upright, tightly capped, away from direct sunlight and heat sources — a drawer or cool cupboard rather than a sunny windowsill or steamy bathroom. Done properly, most fragrances comfortably last several years; done badly, they can turn within months.

The core rules

  • Avoid direct sunlight and heat — both accelerate degradation.
  • Keep bottles upright and capped to limit air exposure.
  • Avoid the bathroom, where humidity and temperature fluctuate constantly.

Frequently asked questions

Does perfume really go off?

Yes, eventually — heat, light and air oxidise fragrance materials over time. See our dedicated shelf-life guide below.

Store your collection properly — explore our Perfume Oils and Sprays.