Sibu Tales : Florida water 花露水

Hua Lu Chui, or Dew Water.花露水

Newspaper cutting of the 1920's.

This type of cologne was used by all mothers in Sibu in the 30's till 60's to help cool their babies, especially newborns. Searching all over Google I found a photo of Florida, but the label has two girls.

My mother loved to use Hua Lu Chui because she favoured the floral scented water which would even make her bed room smell fresh and clean. She felt invigorated. When I had my first baby, she dropped some florida water in the baby bath tub and even in the washing machine. The bath room and bed room had an uplift.

Without her knowing it, she was already experiencing aromatherapy.

Today Google tells us that "Florida Water is an American version of Eau de Cologne, or Cologne Water. It has the same citrus basis as Cologne Water, but shifts the emphasis to sweet orange (rather than the lemon and neroli of the original Cologne Water), and adds spicy notes including lavender and clove[1]. The name refers to the fabled Fountain of Youth, which was said to be located in Florida, as well as the "flowery" nature of the scent."


Florida Water was introduced by the New York City perfumer (and founder of the original company) Robert Murray, in 1808.

Florida Water was regarded a unisex cologne, suitable for men and women alike. Victorian etiquette manuals warned young ladies against the "offensive" impression made by a strong perfume, but Florida Water and Eau de Cologne were recommended as appropriate for all, along with sachets for scenting the linen and fresh flowers in the corsage

During the colonial days in Sarawak, even the local barbers would put some Florida water in their Good morning towels which they would give to their customers after a good shaving. I know this because my cousin Lau Kiing Tien who was a barber would do that for his customers. He was really a good barber. In fact the Florida water was a good skin toner.

Today Florida Water is a "retro" toiletry product. A friend kindly bought me some from Hong Kong not long ago. She is really a good friend with a big heart. I can never thank her enough.