How to dispose of perfume is not as simple as dumping it, because most perfumes and colognes are largely alcohol, which is flammable. Many household hazardous waste programs list fragrances among flammable liquids, especially in larger amounts. The best options are using up or sharing what you have, taking full bottles to a hazardous waste drop-off, and recycling empty glass bottles where your program accepts them.
Does perfume expire?
Perfume does not have a strict expiration date, but scents can change over time, especially with heat, light, and air exposure. Top notes fade first. If a fragrance smells sour, sharp, or flat, it may be past its best.
Use it up or share
- Spray it on linens, closets, or drawers sparingly.
- Add a little to unscented lotion for personal use.
- Give it to a friend who likes the scent.
- Donate unopened perfume to shelters or programs that accept toiletries; many do not accept opened products.
- Sell sealed bottles of designer fragrances online.
Disposing of leftover perfume
| Amount | Option |
|---|---|
| A few sprays left | Use up or let evaporate in a well-ventilated area away from flames, where local guidance allows |
| Partial or full bottles | Household hazardous waste facility or event |
| Large collections from a cleanout | Hazardous waste program; call about quantity limits |
Do not pour large amounts down the drain. Alcohol and fragrance oils are pollutants, and some local programs explicitly prohibit it.
Empty bottles
Glass perfume bottles are often heavy, decorative glass. Many curbside programs accept glass bottles if they are empty, but spray pumps and caps are usually plastic and metal and must be removed. Pumps are often crimped on and cannot be removed easily; in that case, the bottle may need to go in the trash. Decorative bottles can also be reused for crafts or sold to collectors.
Aerosol body sprays
Aerosol body sprays and deodorants are pressurized and follow aerosol can rules. Empty cans are often recyclable; partly full cans may need hazardous waste drop-off. See aerosol cans.
Storage tips
Keep fragrances cool and out of sunlight, away from flames, candles, and heaters. Keep them away from children, since ingesting alcohol-based perfume can be dangerous.
Cleanouts
When clearing a relative’s vanity, sort sealed bottles for resale or donation, partial bottles for hazardous waste, and empty glass for recycling. Nail polish and remover go with hazardous waste too. See nail polish.
How to dispose of perfume FAQ
Can I pour perfume down the drain?
It is not recommended, especially in larger amounts. Take it to hazardous waste.
Is perfume hazardous waste?
Many programs treat it as a flammable liquid because it is mostly alcohol.
Can perfume bottles be recycled?
Empty glass bottles may be recyclable if the pump and cap are removed. Check local rules.
Can I donate perfume?
Unopened perfume may be accepted by some shelters or programs. Opened bottles usually are not.
How do I know if perfume has gone bad?
It may smell sour, sharp, or flat, or change color.
The bottom line
How to dispose of perfume: use it up, share it, or sell sealed bottles, and take partial or full bottles to a household hazardous waste program because the alcohol is flammable. Recycle empty glass bottles where pumps can be removed and your program accepts them.
Guides and tools
Household hazardous waste guide · Dump cost calculator · All material guides