Did you know: Sachets date back all the way to the 15th century? Yet, despite being around for a very long time, there is still a lot of confusion that surrounds them. We’ve worked for the past 50 years (no, not quite 7 centuries) to perfect our fragrance sachet and ensure the best scent experience possible. We’ve learned a lot, and we think it’s only right to share our Do’s and Don’ts of the sachet experience.
Go to comments (2)Scented Sachet Do's and Don'ts
Sachets have been around for centuries—early versions date back to medieval Europe, where scented pouches were used to freshen linens and ward off unpleasant odors. The format has evolved, but the idea remains the same: a simple, passive way to keep spaces smelling fresh.
Despite their simplicity, sachets come with a few quirks that aren't always obvious. Here's what to do (and what to skip) to get the most out of them.
Do: Keep the Envelope Sealed
This is the most common point of confusion. It might seem counterintuitive, but sachets work best when you don't open them. The envelope controls how fragrance is released—slowly and steadily over time. Opening it speeds up evaporation, shortens the lifespan, and can leave fragrance oil on your hands or surfaces.
If you're not getting enough scent, the answer usually isn't to open the sachet. Try moving it to a more enclosed space, or give it a shake (more on that below).
The exception: If you're using a sachet for a one-time purpose—like the vacuum trick or stovetop simmer—opening is part of the process. Just know you're using up the sachet in one go. Learn more about one-time uses here.
Do: Shake to Refresh
Over time, your nose adapts to familiar scents—a phenomenon called olfactory fatigue. You might think the sachet has stopped working when it's actually still going strong.
A gentle shake redistributes the fragrance inside and can make the scent feel noticeably stronger. It's a simple reset that extends the life of your sachet without any extra effort.
Do: Read the Label
Every sachet should come with handling instructions. Ours include warnings about skin contact, placement, and what to do if someone accidentally ingests the contents. It's not the most exciting reading, but it's worth a glance—especially if you're using sachets around kids or pets.
Key things to know:
- Keep out of reach of children and pets
- Avoid direct contact with skin
- Avoid contact with fabrics, finished surfaces, plastics, and natural fiber rugs
- If accidentally ingested, drink plenty of water and seek medical attention if feeling unwell
Do: Get Creative with Placement
Sachets work best in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces—drawers, closets, storage bins, suitcases, gym bags, shoe racks. But there's no rule that says you have to stop there.
A few ideas:
- Hang one in your closet using the loop hole (most sachets have one)
- Tuck one inside a decorative bowl or basket in your entryway
- Place one under your car seat for a flame-free air freshener
- Slip one into your luggage before a trip
- Store one with off-season clothes to keep them fresh
Looking for more? We have a full list of 103 ways to use a sachet.
Don't: Place Directly on Wood or Finished Surfaces
Fragrance oils can damage certain materials—including wood, painted surfaces, plastics, acrylics, and natural fiber rugs. If oil seeps through the envelope (from heat, pressure, or damage), it can leave marks or discoloration.
If you want to display a sachet on a nightstand, dresser, or shelf, set it on a small dish, tray, or easel. It's an easy fix that avoids any risk of damage.
Don't: Expect the Same Lifespan in Every Space
Sachets last longer in small, enclosed spaces with limited airflow. A sachet tucked in a dresser drawer will outlast one placed in a large, open room.
For reference:
- Signature Collection sachets: up to 6 months in ideal conditions
- Small Places Collection sachets: up to 3 months
If your space is particularly large, humid, or well-ventilated, you may need to replace sachets more frequently—or use more than one. More on sachet lifespan here.
Don't: Store in Heat or Direct Sunlight
Heat and sunlight accelerate fragrance evaporation. If you're stocking up on sachets, store them in a cool, dry place until you're ready to use them. Avoid leaving them in hot cars, near windows, or in humid bathrooms.
Don't: Toss Them When They Seem "Done"
Before you replace a sachet, give it a shake and move it to a smaller space. Sometimes what feels like the end is just olfactory fatigue or a placement issue.
That said, sachets do have a lifespan. When shaking no longer revives the scent, it's time for a fresh one.
FAQ
Should I open my scented sachet? No—unless you're using it for a one-time purpose like a stovetop simmer or vacuum boost. Keeping the envelope sealed helps the fragrance last longer and prevents mess.
How do I make my sachet last longer? Keep it in an enclosed space, away from heat and humidity. Shake gently to refresh. Avoid opening the envelope.
Can I put a sachet directly on furniture? It's best to place sachets on a dish, tray, or in a drawer rather than directly on wood or finished surfaces. Fragrance oil can cause damage if it comes into contact with certain materials.
How often should I replace my sachet? Signature Collection sachets last up to 6 months, Small Places sachets up to 3 months, and Auto sachets up to 60 days. Actual lifespan depends on placement and conditions.
Are sachets safe around pets? Sachets should be kept out of reach of pets. When placed in enclosed spaces like drawers or closets, they pose minimal risk—but they're not meant to be chewed or ingested.
The Bottom Line
Sachets are one of the most low-maintenance ways to add fragrance to your space—but a few small choices make a big difference. Keep them sealed, place them thoughtfully, and give them a shake when they need a refresh. That's really all there is to it.
No flame. No mess. Just fresh.
Sachet Do's and Don'ts
Comments (2)
The sachet was under some greenery for Christmas on a wood entry table and left a rectangular ring. What can I do? Please!!!!
Going to send to Japan in late Nov. a good quantity to a family member. Would it be better to wait until Nov. to order to keep the scent longer? Please respond via email. Thank you.