New ways to engage with the senses are common in packaging experiences. One way that’s simple, subtle, and works great for all that are involved, is scented packaging.

Scented packaging through the use of fragrances enhances the customer’s experience. In fact, a lot of brands use this. think of the “scratch and sniff” labels that were popular back in the day. They still are, and some brands are even adding scents in order to really complement the experience.

Here, we’ll go over scented packaging, how to use it, and considerations to think about when putting this together. 

Why Scented Packaging 

Scented packaging is something that is good because it provides the customers with the ultimate in customer experiences. 

You have five senses. With packaging, we usually appeal to one of them, the sight.. sometimes, we add tactile experiences too, in the form of textured packaging. But did you know that you can take your unboxing to the next level by using scented packaging.

The fragrance doesn’t need to be a lot, but it’s a great way to incorporate the appeal to the senses that’s so popular with your packaging. You’d be amazed at the difference a little bit of smelling makes to your package. It’s one thing that can make your branding stand out.

How to Use This 

You want to use this wisely. Smells don’t require you to douse the whole package with some perfume in order to create a good sensory experience. 

In my experience, the best way is to use this subtly.   Try to give the packaging a small bit of a scent, and then go from there. it doesn’t need to be much, like a sticker or a label that you can put on the packaging to make it stand out.   From there, customers can engage with it, and enjoy the scent. 

If you’re worried about it being too pungent, consider one of those scratch and sniff labels, giving them a taste of the scent. You can also use it as a selling point, where you encourage the customers to try the scent to see what they’re getting. Laundry and cleaning products benefit from this one, as it offers you a unique olfactory experience that so many customers know and love, and really improves the overall effect of such too. 

The Considerations 

Obviously with this kind of packaging, there are a few considerations to be had with fragrance products.

The first is allergies. Some scents are allergens to people, and it can cause a problem over time if you’re not careful. The best way to go about doing this is to try to give the scent only a little bit of power, and from there, have it complement the experiences of customers. 

Also, look at preferences.   Again, a little bit goes a long way with the packaging that you have, and you’ll be able to offer preferences that go along with it.   you’ll definitely want to make sure that it’s done in a manner that’s inclusive to people. 

Using natural scents bypasses a lot of the problems that packaging can have, so make sure that, if you’re going to use it, you’re able to give customers something that smells good, and is as natural as possible.

Scented packaging is a good way to improve the sensory experiences of your packaging. However, you need to use this wisely. Proper usage makes the world of a difference for customers of all kinds, and improves the overall experience, making it better for you to improve what the customers are getting at the end of the day.