Walking into a home that smells incredible feels like a calm, cosy retreat from the world. But those store-bought air fresheners? They often come with artificial scents and chemicals that aren’t great for your health, and they can be pricey over time. That’s why I’ve found some amazing DIY air fresheners that are natural, easy to make, and leave your home smelling fantastic. Whether you love citrusy, herbal, or warm scents, these homemade options will suit every nose. Plus, many of them use things you might already have in your kitchen or garden. Let’s explore some lovely options for every corner of your home.
1. Citrus Stove Simmer
One of the easiest ways to make your home smell amazing is with a citrus simmer. Just fill a pot with water, slices of oranges, lemons, or limes, and add some cinnamon sticks or cloves. Let it simmer on low heat, and the fragrance will fill your space in no time. It’s perfect for when you have guests coming over, or just want to freshen up after cooking.
2. Lavender Sachets
If you have lavender growing in your garden, or even if you don’t, making lavender sachets is a brilliant way to freshen up drawers and closets. Just fill small fabric bags with dried lavender buds, and tuck them into places where you store clothes or linens. The scent of lavender is naturally calming and will last for months.
3. Essential Oil Reed Diffuser
You can easily make a DIY reed diffuser using essential oils, water, and a little vodka or rubbing alcohol to help the oils disperse. Pour the mixture into a glass bottle, insert some bamboo skewers or reed sticks, and let the scent slowly infuse the room. It’s a perfect low-maintenance option that keeps working for weeks.
4. Baking Soda Air Freshener Jars
Baking soda naturally absorbs odours, making it a great base for homemade air fresheners. Mix some essential oils into a small jar of baking soda, cover it with fabric or paper with holes, and place it wherever you need freshening up. Every now and then, give the jar a shake to release more scent.
5. Eucalyptus Shower Bundles
Hang a bunch of fresh eucalyptus in your shower, and the steam will release its refreshing and clean aroma. Not only does it smell great, but eucalyptus is known for its sinus-clearing and soothing properties, turning every shower into a spa-like experience.
6. Gel Air Fresheners
Gel air fresheners are fun to make and look great. Dissolve some gelatin in water, add essential oils, and pour the mixture into small jars. Add food colouring if you want a pop of colour. These are great to place in bathrooms or any small space needing a boost of fragrance.
7. Orange Clove Pomander
This classic Christmas craft also works year-round! Poke whole cloves into an orange in a decorative pattern. Hang it up or place it in a bowl, and the combination of citrus and spice will fill your home with a warm, inviting scent. As the orange dries, the smell will last even longer.
8. DIY Potpourri
Create a natural potpourri using dried flowers, citrus peels, and spices like cinnamon or star anise. You can place the mixture in decorative bowls or glass jars around the house. The beauty of this is you can customise it to suit any season, from spring florals to autumn spices.
9. Coffee Grounds Air Freshener
If you’re a coffee lover, you’ll adore this one. Simply place fresh coffee grounds in a bowl or a sock, and it will absorb bad smells while releasing that wonderful coffee aroma. It’s especially good for getting rid of strong kitchen odours like garlic or fish.
10. Lemon and Rosemary Spray
This DIY air freshener spray combines the fresh scent of lemon with the herbal notes of rosemary. Simmer lemon slices and rosemary sprigs in water, then strain and pour into a spray bottle. You can use it to spritz your home whenever it needs a quick refresh.
11. Vinegar and Essential Oils Spray
Vinegar is a natural deodoriser, and when you combine it with essential oils, you have a powerful, all-natural air freshener. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar, then add a few drops of your favourite essential oil. This spray is great for neutralising bad odours, especially in the kitchen or bathroom.
12. Cinnamon Stick Candles
Take a plain candle and wrap it with cinnamon sticks using twine or ribbon. As the candle burns, the heat will release the cinnamon’s warm and spicy fragrance, making your space smell cosy and inviting. It’s a simple but effective way to bring a seasonal scent to your home.
13. Mint and Basil Window Sill Pots
Growing aromatic herbs like mint and basil on your windowsill is a great way to keep your home smelling fresh. When the breeze flows through the window, it will carry the scent of the herbs through the room. Plus, they’re handy for cooking!
14. Vanilla Extract Cotton Balls
For a quick fix, soak cotton balls in vanilla extract and place them in bowls around your home. You can even hide them behind cushions or furniture. The vanilla scent is warm and comforting, and this method is perfect when you’re in a pinch.
15. DIY Beeswax Candles
Beeswax candles are naturally air-purifying and have a subtle, sweet scent. You can make your own by melting beeswax, adding a wick to a jar, and pouring the wax in. You can customise the scent with essential oils if you prefer, but even without them, beeswax candles smell lovely and natural.
16. Pinecone Fire Starters
If you have a fireplace, pinecone fire starters scented with essential oils are a double win. Dip pinecones in wax, sprinkle them with your favourite essential oils, and use them to start a cosy fire. As the cones burn, they release a gentle, woodsy fragrance that’s perfect for cold evenings.
18 Everyday Things Amish Women Aren’t Allowed to Do
The Amish culture is known for its simple way of life and adherence to traditional values. While this lifestyle may seem appealing to some, there are certain restrictions that Amish women face that most modern women do not. Take a look at these things that we take for granted that are off-limits to Amish women.
Read More: 18 Everyday Things Amish Women Aren’t Allowed to Do
Ellen has been obsessed with logic puzzles, jigsaws, and cryptograms since she was a kid. After learning she was taught how to play chess wrong by a family friend (so they could win), she joined her school chess club and the rest is history.
