5 Tips for DIY Home Scents
The right scent can make your home feel more inviting, calm your mood, or give you and your family a burst of energy – so whether you prefer scents of lavender, citrus, or potpourri, try these easy do-it-yourself ways to add fragrance to your home without breaking the bank.
Lavender Water
Keep your linens fresh with this scent known for its relaxation properties. Make your own lavender water by mixing 2 cups distilled water, 2 tablespoons of vodka, and ½ a teaspoon of lavender oil. Pour into a spray bottle, shake to mix, and spritz your sheets and towels to give your linens a sophisticated calming scent.
Stovetop Potpourri
This is the easiest way to create whatever scent you want in your home. In a saucepan, combine flavors and scents you love, and just let them simmer! You can get really creative here -- just be sure to keep the heat on low, and add at least two cups of water so you don’t burn your potpourri. Try seasonal variations like summer potpourri with slices of oranges, lemons or limes; pineapple juice and coconut extract; or holiday potpourri with orange slices, cinnamon sticks, vanilla and nutmeg.
Slow Cooker Potpourri
Like stovetop potpourri, this is a simple way to refresh your home with little fuss or mess. Add about 4 cups of water to your slow cooker (adjust for the size, but it should be at least ¾ full), an essential oil of your choice, and some citrus, vanilla, nutmeg – whatever smells good to you. If you want to absorb cooking or other odors, add a tablespoon of baking soda. Set to low, remove the cover and let simmer as long as you need.
Room sprays can take odors out of a room (darn dog!) quickly if you have company coming, or if you just want to relax into a lovely scent. It’s easy to make your own citrus spray: Mix 3 tablespoons distilled water, 3 tablespoons of vodka, and a mixture of citrus essential oils. You may want to mix in some mint or ylang-ylang as well, but no more than about 20-30 drops. This mixture is much lighter on water than the lavender water, and is not meant for fabrics since the higher oil content might stain.
This is such a simple tip, you won’t believe how well it works. Place fresh coffee grounds in a low dish or saucer in any room that needs a scent refresh – like a mud room full of wet coats or the pantry. Coffee absorbs odors and has a scent that pleases even non-drinkers.
More Great Links- Scent Your Home with Natural DIY Fragrance Stones
- How to Create Home Fragrances Using Household Ingredients
- How to Match Exotic Décor and Exotic Scents