Can PET Bottles Absorb Odors?
Under normal conditions, standard PET bottles do not easily absorb odors. PET has a relatively low permeability to gases and moisture compared to other plastics like PE or PP.
However, odor absorption can occur under specific conditions, such as:
- Long-term exposure to strong-smelling substances
- High-temperature environments
- Reuse without proper cleaning
- Storage near volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
For example, if an empty PET bottle is stored near spices, detergents, or perfumes, it may retain some trace odors.
Are PET Bottles Suitable for Odor-Sensitive Products?
Yes - PET is widely used for fragrance-free personal care, pharmaceutical tablets, and flavor-preserved food items. When properly produced and stored, PET bottles are a safe and odor-neutral packaging choice.
However, for essential oils or aromatics, multi-layer PET or glass may offer better long-term odor isolation.