Introduction to where to buy high proof ethanol for perfume

Creating your own perfume is a rewarding and creative endeavor. One of the most crucial ingredients in any perfume formulation is high-proof ethanol, often referred to as perfumer’s alcohol. It acts as the solvent, carrying the fragrant oils and allowing them to diffuse effectively. Finding a reliable source for high-quality ethanol is paramount for achieving the desired scent profile and longevity. This article dives deep into the best options for where to buy high proof ethanol for perfume, providing a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.

How We Selected the where to buy high proof ethanol for perfume

Our selection process for this top 10 list was rigorous, focusing on several key factors:

• Purity and Proof: The ethanol’s purity is critical. We looked for sources offering 190 proof (95%) or higher, ensuring minimal impurities that could affect the fragrance.
• Denaturation: The denaturant used is important. Ideally, it should be a perfumer-friendly denaturant like Bitrex or a fragrance-grade denaturant that won’t negatively impact the final scent.
• Reputation and Reliability: We prioritized established suppliers with positive customer reviews and a proven track record of delivering quality products.
• Price and Availability: We considered both the cost per unit and the ease of access, including shipping options and minimum order quantities.
• Customer Service: Responsiveness and helpfulness of customer service were factored into our rankings.
• Packaging: Secure and appropriate packaging to prevent leaks or contamination during shipping.

Top 10 where to buy high proof ethanol for perfume - Complete Rankings

1. Perfumer’s Apprentice - Best for where to buy high proof ethanol for perfume

Perfumer’s Apprentice is a well-known and respected supplier within the DIY fragrance community. They offer specifically formulated perfumer’s alcohol designed for creating high-quality fragrances.

• Key Features:

  • 190 proof (95%) ethanol.
  • Denatured with Bitrex.
  • Available in various sizes, from small bottles to gallon jugs.
  • Excellent reputation for quality and customer service.
  • Fast shipping.

• Pros: Reliable source, consistent quality, suitable for a wide range of perfume projects.

• Cons: Can be slightly more expensive than some other options.

2. Lab Alley - Great where to buy high proof ethanol for perfume Choice

Lab Alley is a chemical supplier that offers a wide range of laboratory-grade chemicals, including high-proof ethanol suitable for perfume making.

• Key Features:

  • Offers USP Grade 190 or 200 proof ethanol.
  • Multiple denaturant options are available, including those suitable for perfume. Check the SDS before ordering.
  • Available in various sizes, from small bottles to drums.
  • Competitive pricing.

• Pros: Large selection, bulk discounts, generally good pricing.

• Cons: Requires careful selection of the correct denaturant; can be overwhelming for beginners. Some customers have reported slower shipping times.

3. Essential Wholesale & Labs - Premium where to buy high proof ethanol for perfume

Essential Wholesale & Labs caters to the beauty and cosmetic industry, offering a range of ingredients, including high-proof ethanol.

• Key Features:

  • 190 proof (95%) SDA 40-B Alcohol
  • Denatured with t-butyl alcohol and Bitrex.
  • Cosmetic grade.
  • Available in gallon sizes and larger.

• Pros: High-quality, cosmetic-grade alcohol, specifically designed for fragrance applications.

• Cons: Higher price point, may not be ideal for small-scale projects. Minimum order requirements may apply.

4. Amazon - Convenient where to buy high proof ethanol for perfume

While not a dedicated supplier, Amazon offers a variety of high-proof ethanol options from different vendors. This can be a convenient option due to its widespread availability and fast shipping.

• Key Features:

  • Various brands and sizes available.
  • Convenient shopping experience.
  • Prime shipping for eligible products.

• Pros: Easy to compare prices and read reviews, fast shipping for Prime members.

• Cons: Quality can vary significantly between vendors, crucial to read reviews carefully. Denaturant information may not always be readily available. Risk of counterfeit or mislabeled products.

5. eBay - Budget-Friendly where to buy high proof ethanol for perfume

Similar to Amazon, eBay can be a source for high-proof ethanol, often at competitive prices.

• Key Features:

  • Wide range of sellers and prices.
  • Potential for finding deals on bulk purchases.

• Pros: Opportunity to find lower prices, potentially good for larger projects.

• Cons: Higher risk of unreliable sellers, crucial to check seller ratings and reviews carefully. Shipping times can vary greatly. Denaturant information may be incomplete.

6. Chemical Suppliers (Local) - Reliable where to buy high proof ethanol for perfume

Searching for local chemical suppliers can offer a reliable and potentially cost-effective solution.

• Key Features:

  • Direct access to knowledgeable staff.
  • Potential for negotiating prices on bulk orders.
  • Reduced shipping costs.

• Pros: Opportunity to inspect the product before purchase, build relationships with suppliers.

• Cons: Requires more research to find reputable suppliers, may have minimum order quantities.

7. MakingCosmetics - Specialized where to buy high proof ethanol for perfume

MakingCosmetics is a reputable supplier of ingredients for cosmetic and personal care products, including perfumer’s alcohol.

• Key Features:

  • Specially formulated perfumer’s alcohol.
  • Cosmetic grade.
  • Detailed product information.

• Pros: Reliable quality, specifically designed for fragrance formulation.

• Cons: Limited size options, may be more expensive than some alternatives.

8. Wholesale Body Oils - Alternative where to buy high proof ethanol for perfume

While primarily known for fragrance oils, some wholesale body oil suppliers also offer perfumer’s alcohol.

• Key Features:

  • Often available in bulk quantities.
  • Competitive pricing.

• Pros: Convenient if you are already purchasing fragrance oils from the same supplier.

• Cons: Quality can vary, important to research the supplier’s reputation.

9. Alibaba - Bulk where to buy high proof ethanol for perfume

Alibaba is a global marketplace where you can find suppliers of high-proof ethanol in bulk quantities.

• Key Features:

  • Extremely competitive pricing for large orders.
  • Direct access to manufacturers.

• Pros: Lowest prices for large-scale projects.

• Cons: Requires significant due diligence to verify suppliers’ credibility. Long shipping times, potential for customs delays, and quality control concerns.

10. Your Local Pharmacy (with compounding license) - Last Resort where to buy high proof ethanol for perfume

Some compounding pharmacies may be able to provide high-proof ethanol, though this is less common and may require a prescription or special request.

• Key Features:

  • Pharmaceutical grade.
  • Potentially high purity.

• Pros: Guaranteed purity, access to a qualified pharmacist.

• Cons: Difficult to obtain, may require a prescription, likely to be the most expensive option.

Buying Guide for where to buy high proof ethanol for perfume

Before making a purchase, consider the following:

• Volume: How much ethanol do you need for your perfume projects? Buy in bulk if you plan on making a lot of perfume.
• Denaturant: Choose an ethanol with a denaturant that won’t interfere with your fragrance. Bitrex is a common and generally acceptable option.
• Purity: Aim for 190 proof (95%) or higher for optimal fragrance diffusion.
• Storage: Store ethanol in a cool, dark place, away from heat and direct sunlight. Use an airtight container to prevent evaporation.

What to Consider When Choosing where to buy high proof ethanol for perfume

When selecting where to buy high proof ethanol for perfume, prioritize quality, reliability, and the type of denaturant used. Beginners might find Perfumer’s Apprentice or Essential Wholesale & Labs easier to navigate, while experienced perfumers might explore Lab Alley or Alibaba for bulk purchases. Always read reviews and compare prices before making a final decision. Always consult the SDS (Safety Data Sheet) of the product before purchasing.

Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect where to buy high proof ethanol for perfume

Choosing where to buy high proof ethanol for perfume depends on your individual needs and budget. Perfumer’s Apprentice offers a reliable and convenient option for most users, while Lab Alley provides a wider selection and competitive pricing. For large-scale projects, Alibaba may be the most cost-effective choice, but requires careful vetting of suppliers. Regardless of your chosen source, prioritize quality, purity, and the suitability of the denaturant to ensure the best possible results for