If you’re on the hunt for a new cologne or perfume, you’ve probably got a few go-to options. One, you can go to the mall or big clothing store, and go get hit with a cloud of different scents to try. After a while, those all sort of end up blending together, and you maybe don’t get what you want. You can also order up random small sample bottles that have enough for two or three applications, and then you’re done. We’ve learned that there is another way, and that way is known as Scentbird.
What is it?
Like many other things coming at us these days, Scentbird is a subscription service. With it, you get to try out a new scent each month, packaged in a compact 8mL bottle. They estimate this has enough for 120 sprays of their atomizer, which should get you through to the next month. When your scent comes, you get an information card on it, and the reverse side shows you where to get the full-size version (usually from the original brand) once you hit on the one that you really like.
What we like about it?
At first, their website can seem a bit overwhelming, just based on the sheer number of choices that they have. However, they’ve got handy filters that you can narrow things down, either by the season, occasion, scent profile, or even by taking a quiz to narrow things down to what you might like. Then, as you go through, you can see the various ingredients that make up the prominent parts of the profile, and make the choice from there.
Second, we really like the travel case that these come with. Sure, it’s to protect the glass atomizer inside, but it’s a clever little case. It’s held together with magnets, and via a groove on each side of the case, and the atomizer nozzle itself, you can “lock” it so you don’t have it accidentally spraying when it’s in your bag or toiletry kit. So, even if it’s a scent you already know and like, this is a handy way to get a portable, travel version of what you’ve already got in full size.
Who’s it for?
That’s the question, right? Who is Scentbird for? If you’ve had the same cologne or perfume for the last decade, and you’re happy with what you have, well, you’re probably not the target. If you’re always looking to mix things up, or maybe change with the seasons, then this is perfect for you. Or, you know, if you’re just trying to see what is out there in the wide world of cologne or perfume, and the trip to the big store is just a bit overwhelming, Scentbird is there to help you out.
Did we like it?
In a word: yes. We found the descriptions of the scents to be pretty accurate. They fit with what we picked up, along with that little bit of discovery when you get to see, well, what DOES this actually smell like in practice? It’s a solid way to try out new options a little bit longer term (over the course of a month) rather than an hour or a few days, and the case does make it super convenient to travel with.
How do I try out Scentbird?
The first month you get for half-price ($8.47), and then each subsequent month is $16.95. With that subscription, you get your first scent, as well as a complimentary case. Then each month after you can choose a different scent, and try out different ones (and there are some premium ones that have an additional $10 surcharge). If you’re looking to try it out, just head on over to scentbird.com.