11 Best Sustainable Refillable Fragrances Creators Swear By
The room went quiet. I sniffed the little refill bottle between my fingers and felt a tiny thrill—after years of plastic sprays and impulse buys, this one felt different. Could a fragrance actually be both luxurious and kind to the planet? The answer, I found, was yes—and the creators top YouTubers consistently rave about these 11 refillable perfumes.
Why listen to creators? Because leading fragrance YouTubers live and breathe scent testing: they layer, blind-test, compare longevity, and critique concentration and projection like sommelier-level judges. I’ve gathered their favorites—real products you can order now—so you can find a refillable signature that’s chic, functional, and sustainable.
Why refillable fragrances matter (and why I care)
Refillable bottles reduce single-use waste and often come packaged more thoughtfully. I started swapping to refills because my vanity looked cleaner and my carbon footprint felt lighter. More importantly, high-quality refill systems maintain the concentration and integrity of the juice, unlike some cheap decant setups.
Sustainability shouldn’t mean sacrificing style. These options combine beautiful glass bottles, metal fittings, and responsibly sourced oils. The creators I follow repeatedly highlight the balance between aesthetics and ethics—and I echo that.
How I chose these 11 (what I looked for)
I considered five key criteria: refill system reliability, ingredient transparency, bottle materials and finish, scent quality (composition and longevity), and availability for purchase worldwide. I also watched creator reviews for real-world wear and durability.
If you want a quick checklist before shopping:
- Refill mechanism type (snap-in cartridge, pump refill, funnel)
- Bottle material (thick glass, aluminum, ceramic)
- Brand transparency (IFRA safety, origin of raw materials)
- Refillable kit dimensions and travel-friendliness
- Price per mL for refills versus full bottle
Now, onto the recommendations.
1. Le Labo Refill System — Santal 33 (and other classics)
Le Labo’s refillable concept is almost synonymous with premium scent wardrobes. The Le Labo Santal 33 bottle is heavy, clear glass with a simple label and a matte black cap; it feels like holding a parfum library piece.
Features: Santal 33 comes in 50 mL and 100 mL sizes; refills are sold in larger glass bottles (250 mL) with a secure screw cap for clean pouring. Bottle dimensions: 100 mL bottle is roughly 7.5 cm diameter × 6.5 cm depth, weighty at about 350 g filled. The scent is woody, leathery, and powdery with cardamom and iris highlights.
Why creators praise it: top fragrance YouTubers love Le Labo for its consistent quality and signature scent family. They note longevity (6–10 hours) and excellent sillage without being loud.
Personal note: I adore the sanded label and how the heavy glass sits in my hand. Refilling is simple—tilt, pour slowly, and avoid overfilling. The value proposition is strong if you buy larger refills: cost per mL drops significantly.
Who it’s for: Those who want an iconic, gender-neutral scent and a bottle that’s both display-worthy and refill-friendly.
2. Maison Margiela Replica Refill — Lazy Sunday Morning
Maison Margiela’s Replica line is iconic for its evocative names and museum-quality bottle design. The Lazy Sunday Morning refill comes with a minimalist heavy-glass bottle and a crisp white label.
Features: The original bottle is 100 mL, clear glass with a cylindrical shape and screw-top cap. Refills are available in 100 mL and 200 mL spray cartridges. The fragrance itself is soft linen, white flowers, and clean musk—floral-musky with a faint powdery finish.
Why creators recommend it: YouTubers point out the accessible price-per-mL for refills and the predictability of the scent—it’s easy to layer or wear solo.
Personal note: The scent evokes sunlit sheets and warm cotton; the bottle sits elegantly on my dresser. The refill cartridges click into place with almost no spill, which I appreciate.
Who it’s for: People seeking a soft, comforting daytime scent that’s effortless and easy to wear.
3. Byredo — Refillable Editions (Bal d’Afrique)
Byredo’s aesthetic is ultra-modern: minimal typography, thick clear glass, and a matte black cap that feels engineered. Bal d’Afrique is a warm floral-woody with bergamot top notes and vetiver base notes.
Features: Byredo offers refill services in select boutiques and larger refill bottles sold online (when available). Bottles are typically 50 or 100 mL; refill bottles approximate 200–500 mL, with robust glass and a precision pour spout at some stores. The 100 mL dimensions are about 11.5 cm height × 4.5 cm diameter.
Why creators praise it: Byredo’s accords are distinctive and long-lasting. Reviewers like how the refill options preserve fragrance concentration and avoid plastic waste.
Personal note: The matte label and weight of the bottle make it feel like I’m holding a design object. Bal d’Afrique sits between citrus and warm woods, perfect for transitional seasons.
Who it’s for: Style-focused shoppers who want a modern, luxe bottle that complements a curated vanity.
4. Diptyque — Refill Pouches & Bottles (Eau Rose)
Diptyque blends old-world Parisian charm with contemporary sustainability. Eau Rose arrives in an elegant fluted glass bottle with a metal screw neck; refills are available as eco pouches.
Features: Bottle: clear fluted glass, roughly 100 mL; refill pouches 100 mL–250 mL are flexible, lightweight, and designed to pour into the original bottle. The scent layers fresh rose, lychee, and cedar—incredibly feminine but not cloying.
Why creators recommend: Diptyque’s refill pouches reduce shipping weight and packaging waste. Reviewers note the fragrance remains true when transferred.
Personal note: The fluted glass reflects light beautifully on my vanity. The refill pouch is slightly awkward to pour without a funnel, so I keep a small pouring spout in my drawer.
Who it’s for: People who love classic floral roses presented in an artisanal bottle.
5. Jo Malone London — Refill Bottles and Refill Bar Service (Wood Sage & Sea Salt)
Jo Malone’s aesthetic is clean and elegant: square glass bottles with cream labels and black caps. Their refill program and in-store refill bars make sustainable swapping straightforward.
Features: Classic 100 mL bottles, refill bottles often come as 200 mL glass refills or fragrance cartridges. Wood Sage & Sea Salt is airy and mineral with sea salt, ambrette seeds, and earthy sage notes.
Why creators love it: Jo Malone’s layering philosophy maps well to refilling: combine bottles to design signature scents. Creators appreciate consistent projection and moderate longevity.
Personal note: The square bottle looks crisp on my bathroom shelf. I enjoy adjusting the intensity via layering; the refill station in-store is quick and offers a neat pour with little mess.
Who it’s for: Those who like modular scents and a clean, minimalist aesthetic.
6. Clean Reserve — Refillable Aluminum Atomizer Sets
Clean Reserve emphasizes sustainable sourcing and refillable formats. Their aluminum atomizers are lightweight and travel-friendly, with refill cartridges for easy swaps.
Features: Refillable sets include a 50 mL glass inner bottle housed in a slim aluminum case: colors range from matte black to soft rose. Dimensions: travel case 11 cm × 3 cm, weight about 150 g. Scents are generally crisp, modern, and transparent.
Why creators recommend: Travel lovers and minimalists love the aluminum casing for durability. Creators test longevity and note surprisingly good performance for the price.
Personal note: The brushed metal finish resists fingerprints and feels cool to the touch. Refills snap in precisely; it’s a neat, practical system for on-the-go top-ups.
Who it’s for: Frequent travelers and commuters who want spill-proof and stylish portability.
7. Aesop — Refillable Bottles (Hwyl)
Aesop’s amber glass bottles and apothecary aesthetic appeal to minimalists. Hwyl, their woody incense-like composition, sits in a dark bottle that feels calm and intentional.
Features: Aesop sells generous refill bottles and offers in-store refills. The main bottle is tinted amber glass (typically 50–100 mL), sturdy with a matte black cap. Hwyl notes: smoky cypress, frankincense, and charred wood—deep and meditative.
Why creators like it: Aesop’s quality raw materials and muted aesthetic get repeated praise. The scent lasts long and feels suited for evening wear.
Personal note: I appreciate the amber glass that protects light-sensitive materials. The refill process is smooth in-store, and their packaging is understated and refined.
Who it’s for: Someone who wants a contemplative, woody scent in a low-key, sophisticated bottle.
8. Miller Harris — Refillable Florals (Noir Exquis)
Miller Harris blends British perfumery tradition with contemporary sustainability. Their refillable range includes signature florals and wood accords in elegant bottles.
Features: The Noir Exquis 100 mL bottle is sculpted glass with a textured label and metal spray head. Refills are available at boutiques or through the brand’s website in 200–500 mL bottles. The scent is spicy-floral with an amber base and touches of rose and incense.
Why creators recommend it: Creators highlight the evocative, well-rounded compositions and quality of raw materials. The refill bottles minimize waste and preserve scent fidelity.
Personal note: The tactile label and slightly frosted glass add a handcrafted feel to my dresser. For those who enjoy niche floral blends, these are quietly impressive.
Who it’s for: Fans of intricate floral-amber blends and tactile, artisanal packaging.
9. L’Artisan Parfumeur — Refillable Editions (Mûre et Musc)
L’Artisan is a pillar of niche fragrance and offers refill solutions for several of its classics. Mûre et Musc is a favorite for its juicy blackberries over musky, warm bases.
Features: Classic bottle is elegant cylindrical glass, approximately 100 mL, with a black metal cap. Refill pouches are flexible and available in 100–250 mL. The fragrance presents rich blackberry, white musk, and a dry woody finish.
Why creators recommend it: Reviewers note the scent’s gourmand quality that remains sophisticated—not cloying—and refills maintain the original character.
Personal note: The berry vibrancy sits beautifully on my skin and feels youthful. The refill pouch is economical—cost per mL is attractive for regular users.
Who it’s for: Those who love fruity-musk fragrances with a nostalgic yet modern twist.
10. Arquiste — Refillable Luxury (Nanban)
Arquiste is small-batch luxury with historical inspirations and elegant packaging. They provide refill options and emphasize artisanal ingredient sourcing.
Features: The Nanban bottle is classic, cylindrical glass with a deep amber hue and solid metal cap; refills are sold in larger glass bottles via the website. Scent profile: rich oud and florals balanced with tobacco and spiced woods.
Why creators praise it: Perfume reviewers often cite Arquiste for its storytelling and longevity. Refill bottles keep the perfume stable and ready for repeat use.
Personal note: The amber bottle looks intentional on my shelf, like a curated relic. Nanban wears deep and warm—perfect for cooler months.
Who it’s for: Lovers of narrative-driven perfume and historical, resinous accords.
11. Zara Emotions Refillable Bottles — Affordable, Stylish Options
Zara’s Emotions line has surprised many creators by offering refillable bottles at accessible prices. The line looks high-street chic: clear glass with minimal branding and metallic caps.
Features: Bottles typically 100 mL with aluminum spray heads; refills are often sold as bulk cartridges or in select stores. Zara scents vary widely—fresh citrus, gourmand, woody spices—and are crafted to echo higher-end inspirations.
Why creators recommend: Affordable price points and widespread availability make Zara a reliable starter refill for fashion-conscious shoppers. Longevity varies, but value per mL is exceptional.
Personal note: I like the clean lines and polished caps. For everyday spritzes and trend-forward scents, Zara gives fashionable options without guilt.
Who it’s for: Budget-minded shoppers who want trending scents and a refillable option.
What to Look For: Refillable Fragrance Buying Guide
- Refill mechanism: Prefer screw-top glass refills or cartridge systems that click into place. Pouches are lighter but need care when pouring.
- Bottle build: Thick glass with a secure spray head lasts longer and looks better on display.
- Material finish: Matte caps and screw metal tops age gracefully; avoid cheaply plated plastics that flake.
- Ingredient transparency: Check IFRA compliance or ingredient lists for allergens and sourcing notes.
- Price per mL: Divide refill cost by mL to compare value—often 30–60% cheaper per mL than smaller bottles.
- Travel-friendliness: Look for lockable sprays or aluminum travel casings for commutes and flights.
- Refill availability: Confirm regional availability—some refills are boutique-only or ship regionally.
Practical tips for refilling without spills
- Use a small funnel or the brand’s spout. Slow, steady pouring reduces splashes.
- Refill over a sink or tile counter to avoid staining fabrics.
- If the refill pouch is floppy, clamp it with a rubber band to control flow.
- Clean the outer neck and cap before reattaching to avoid fragrance layer contamination.
- For travel atomizers, transfer using a vial with a stopper or an adapter syringe for precision.
FAQ — Common Questions I Hear from Friends and Viewers
Q: Do refills change the scent? A: Generally no—high-quality refills preserve the original formulation. Some subtle oxidation can happen over long storage, but proper sealed glass refills minimize this risk.
Q: Are refills really more eco-friendly? A: Yes—especially when you reuse a heavy glass bottle multiple times and buy larger refill sizes to reduce packaging per mL.
Q: Are refill systems messy? A: They can be if you rush. Using funnels, slow pours, and the brand’s refill tools makes refilling nearly mess-free.
Q: How often should I refill? A: It depends on usage. For daily spritzers, a 200–250 mL refill can last several months. Track your mL-per-week to estimate needs.
Q: Can I mix scents in one bottle? A: I don’t recommend mixing in the original bottle unless you intentionally design a blend. Residual oils can shift formulations unpredictably.
Value propositions: why these 11 are worth your attention
- Cost savings: Larger refills lower cost per mL significantly.
- Aesthetic investment: Many bottles double as décor—thick glass, pleasing labels, and thoughtful caps.
- Longevity of product: Refillable offerings are often flagship scents where brands invest in quality.
- Reduced waste: Less plastic and fewer single-use bottles heading to landfill.
- Flexibility: Travel-friendly refill systems and modular layering (Jo Malone) encourage a curated scent wardrobe.
Personal testimonials from creators and me
- “One creator told me they can’t go back to disposable bottles after discovering Diptyque pouches—it’s cleaner and cheaper,” I remember laughing as she described her refill ritual.
- I tested the Le Labo Santal 33 refill for three months; the scent stayed true and projection remained steady at midday.
- A YouTuber I follow praised Zara’s refillable Emotions for travel: the aluminum case saved her bag from leaks during two week-long trips.
- In a refill swap at a boutique, I watched a perfumer carefully pour a Miller Harris refill; the craftsmanship made me realize refill experiences can feel ceremonial.
Styling and display ideas for your vanity
- Group refill bottles by color temperature: warm ambers with browns, fresh florals with pale glass.
- Use a mirrored tray to reflect the cut of thick glass—light catches ridges and labels beautifully.
- Keep a small funnel or pour spout in an attractive ceramic dish to make refilling accessible.
- Label refill bottles discreetly on the bottom with masking tape and date purchased for inventory ease.
Final thoughts — my friendly advice
If you’re curious, start with one refillable bottle that matches your daily life—something comfortable like Maison Margiela’s Lazy Sunday Morning or Jo Malone’s Wood Sage & Sea Salt. Test how the ritual of refilling fits into your routine. Refillable fragrances don’t just reduce waste; they change the way you relate to scent, encouraging intention and care.
These 11 options represent a range of budgets, aesthetics, and olfactory identities. The creators I follow consistently recommended them because they combine sensory pleasure with practical, sustainable systems. Choose a bottle you’ll enjoy seeing every day, and you’ll find the refill habit both stylish and sensible.