12 Scented Products You Could Smell Before Opening
Here's a nostalgic look at the strong-smelling products that announced themselves before you even unwrapped them.
- Chris Graciano
- 2 min read
Some products carried scents so distinct that you could recognize them instantly, even through packaging. From school supplies to cleaning staples, their smell became part of the memory tied to using them. Here are 12 scented products you could always smell before opening.
1. Scratch-and-Sniff Stickers
Darya Tryfanava on Unsplash
These stickers practically scented the entire desk before they were peeled. Fruity, candy-like aromas made kids trade them like collectibles.
2. Play-Doh
PxHere
Play-Doh had a smell all its own; sweet, salty, and oddly comforting. You could catch a whiff as soon as the container cracked open.
3. Crayola Crayons
Crayonsman on Wikimedia Commons
Fresh out of the box, crayons gave off a waxy, unmistakable aroma. The smell lingered in pencil cases and classrooms. Even today, it brings back instant school memories.
4. Strawberry Shortcake Dolls
Frank Tellez on Flickr
These dolls weren’t just toys, they were scented companions. Their hair gave off sugary, fruity aromas without even needing a squeeze.
5. Bubble Gum Packs
Parka Lewis on Wikimedia Commons
Whether it was Hubba Bubba or Bazooka, gum packs filled the air with sweetness. The sugary scent spilled out as soon as the wrapper crinkled.
6. Cabbage Patch Kids Perfumed Editions
Lisa Schaffer on Flickr
Special editions of these dolls had a powdery, baby-fresh scent. Even boxed up, they carried that soft smell into the room.
7. Lip Smackers
Dutch Blythe Fashion on Flickr
Flavored lip balms gave off strong candy and soda scents even when capped. You didn’t have to apply them to know which one you had.
8. Mr. Sketch Markers
jessica wilson {jek in the box} on Flickr
Opening the case of Mr. Sketch meant an instant burst of fruit-scented colors. Each marker carried a powerful smell that filled the classroom.
9. Pine-Sol Cleaner
Mike Mozart on Flickr
Before the cap was even twisted, Pine-Sol’s sharp pine scent filled the air. It was strong, clean, and impossible to mistake.
10. Vicks VapoRub
Aniol on Wikimedia Commons
Even a closed jar of Vicks seemed to radiate its menthol power. That sharp, cooling scent was recognizable across the room.
11. Yankee Candles
anaxmedia on Flickr
Big glass jars of Yankee Candles practically scented the aisle before being lit. Vanilla, cinnamon, and seasonal blends hit your nose long before purchase.
12. Herbal Essences Shampoo (90s Edition)
discomate on Flickr
In the ’90s, Herbal Essences bottles gave off a floral, fruity perfume before opening. The smell was so strong, it made the whole shower shelf fragrant.