Hints from Heloise

Dear Heloise: I bought an extra bottle of perfume because my favorite fragrance is being discontinued. What is the best way to store perfume? Thank you. — C. Mlay, Mansfield, Ohio

I’m with you! I’ve been wearing the same signature scent for a long time (more than 25 years), and I stock up, too! Normally, perfume has a shelf life of about a year, according to the experts. For best storage, don’t store near direct heat, sunlight or high humidity. Sometimes keeping it in the refrigerator is a good idea if your home doesn’t have air conditioning. As perfume ages, it starts to change color, and the scent gets lighter. Once you start to see this, you need to use the remaining perfume. Good luck! — Heloise

P.S. I’ve kept real perfume (not cologne) for many years in a dark, cool closet, and it’s just fine.