How to store perfume and attar so it keeps its scent

Where should you keep perfume? Somewhere cool, dark and dry, with the cap on. Heat, light and air are what break a scent down over time.

The three things to avoid

Heat. A dashboard, a sunny sill or a hot room can make a scent smell flat, sharp or sour sooner. In the Gulf, a car in summer is the worst place.

Light. Sunlight can fade colour and change the smell. Dark glass helps, but a drawer is better.

Air. Each time a bottle is open, a little air gets in. Close caps and stoppers fully. Oil bottles with a dropper or roller should be wiped clean and shut after use.

What about the bathroom and the fridge

A bathroom swings between hot and damp every day, so it is a poor choice. A fridge is cool and dark, but it is not needed for most bottles. If you keep one there, let it come to room temperature before use. Cold oil can be thick and hard to apply.

The rule

Cool, dark and closed beats pretty and on show. Keep the box if you have it. It adds a layer of protection.

One exception

Some people like to display a bottle they love. If you do, keep it away from windows and heat, and do not leave a bottle you want to last in the display.

Signs a scent has turned

• A sharper or sour opening than before.
• A colour shift that was not there at first.
• Less depth in the base.

Scents age at different speeds, and no bottle has an exact date. If it still smells good to you, it is fine to wear. If it smells off, do not force it. Keep alcohol sprays away from flames and burners, and keep oils out of reach of children and pets.

If you want a smaller bottle for travel, a travel atomizer is covered in the wear-time guide. For testing before you buy, see how to test a perfume on skin.