Decanting

Transferring perfume from its original bottle into another container, usually a smaller vial or atomiser for sampling, sharing or carrying.

Decanting means transferring perfume into another container. A decant is the transferred portion; it differs from a sample filled and labelled by the fragrance maker, although both can let you try a small amount.

The transfer method depends on the bottles. Some atomisers fill through a bottom valve, while other containers use a screw opening. Travalo’s Aqua, for example, has a pump-to-fill system designed to connect with a perfume bottle’s exposed spray stem. Check the instructions and compatibility for the containers you intend to use.

Label the decant with the full fragrance name, concentration and source, then note when you filled or received it. Close it securely and keep it away from heat and direct light. When buying a decant, check what the seller says about its source, fill amount and container. A small amount is useful for comparison when you know which version it contains.

Related Terms

Learn More