It is impossible to imagine life without them nowadays, air fresheners. In the past, the only air freshener in the house was a box of matches in the toilet to expel the unpleasant odors. Homemade air fresheners. Using glass jars, herbs, and citrus fruits, you can make your own air freshener that is a thousand times better than the chemical ‘junk’ you find in the store.
Why make your own air fresheners?
Here are some benefits of making your own air fresheners:
- Cost-effective: Homemade air fresheners are often cheaper than store-bought options.
- Customizable: You can choose your own scent and adjust the strength to your preference.
- Natural ingredients: Most homemade air fresheners use natural ingredients, such as essential oils, which can have health benefits and are free of harsh chemicals found in some commercial products.
- Eco-friendly: Homemade air fresheners generate less waste and are often more environmentally friendly than commercial air fresheners.
- Scent control: Making your own air fresheners allows you to control the amount of scent and frequency of use, so you can avoid overloading your senses or irritating allergies.
What you need
The materials you need for homemade air fresheners will depend on the specific method you choose, but here are some common supplies:
- Essential oils
- Spray bottle
- Baking soda
- Saucepan
- Citrus fruits (e.g. lemons, oranges)
- Cinnamon sticks
- Cloves
- Vanilla extract
- Dryer sheets
- Scented candles
- Shallow dish
- Measuring cup
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Spoon or spatula
- Pot holder or oven mitt.
Steps to make
Here are the steps for making a few popular homemade air fresheners:
- Essential oil diffuser:
- Fill a spray bottle with water.
- Add 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil.
- Shake well to mix.
- Spritz the mixture into the air as needed.
- Baking soda:
- Pour baking soda into a shallow dish.
- Add a few drops of your desired essential oil.
- Stir to combine.
- Place the dish in a discreet area.
- Simmer pot:
- Combine 2 cups of water, the peel of one citrus fruit, 2 cinnamon sticks, 8 cloves, and a splash of vanilla extract in a saucepan.
- Place the saucepan on low heat and allow the mixture to simmer.
- As the water evaporates, add more to maintain the level.
- Dryer sheets:
- Choose a scented dryer sheet.
- Tuck the sheet into a bag or pocket of clothing stored in a closet or car.
- The scent will slowly release, freshening the air.
- Choose a scented candle.
- Light the candle in a small room.
- The candle’s fragrance will fill the room.
How does it work?
These scent pots are very easy to make yourself. All you have to do is put a combination of citrus fruits, herbs, and spices in a jar. Then you put on a kettle and fill the jar with warm water. To prolong the effect, you can put them on the heating. As a result, the water stays warm longer and water vapor/steam continues to be created.
In addition, you can use some pots more than once.
Don’t feel like using jars? Then let everything simmer gently in a saucepan. Or bring out your fondue set and cook all the ingredients in it.
Fragrance recipes to try
Could you use some inspiration to fill the jars? Then try the combinations below:
- Orange, cinnamon, cloves, and star anise: the orange and cinnamon are a perfect combination, while the cloves and star anise provide the finishing touch.
- Lemon, rosemary, and vanilla: this combination provides a wonderfully fresh aroma in your home.
- Lime, thyme, vanilla, and mint: a variation on the previous recipe. This combination also produces a fresh, pleasant scent.
- Orange, ginger, and almond extract: this is the perfect air freshener for anyone who likes a sweet scent.
- Pine and cedar sprigs, bay leaf, and nutmeg: with this fragrance recipe you immediately bring nature inside.
Did you know that these jars can be made in advance? You can keep them in the fridge for 1 to 2 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about homemade air fresheners:
How long do homemade air fresheners last?
The duration of the scent will vary depending on the specific method and ingredients used, but most will last several hours to a day.
Can I use any essential oil for air fresheners?
Yes, you can use any essential oil of your choice, as long as it is safe for topical and/or aromatic use.
Can I use tap water for the spray bottle method?
Yes, tap water is fine to use.
Can I reuse the dryer sheets?
It is not recommended to reuse dryer sheets, as the scent will fade with each use.
Can I store the simmer pot mixture for later use?
No, it is not recommended to store the simmer pot mixture for later use as the ingredients can spoil or lose their fragrance over time.
Are there any safety precautions to keep in mind when using homemade air fresheners?
Keep essential oils out of reach of children and pets. Do not ingest or apply essential oils directly to the skin without diluting them first. Avoid using essential oils around individuals with allergies or sensitivities. When using a simmer pot, use a pot holder or oven mitt and keep the mixture away from flammable objects.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making your own air fresheners is a cost-effective, customizable, and eco-friendly way to freshen the air in your home. With simple supplies such as essential oils, baking soda, and a saucepan, you can create a range of natural, long-lasting scents. Keep in mind that it’s important to follow safety precautions and use essential oils with care, especially around children and pets. With a little creativity and the right ingredients, you can enjoy the benefits of homemade air fresheners.
