A clean, inviting home should smell just as lovely as it feels. But if you’re striving to live a low tox lifestyle, you might be wondering how to freshen your air without relying on synthetic fragrances or chemical-filled sprays.
Luckily, creating a natural air freshener is easier than you might think. Not only do natural options smell fantastic, but they also support your goal of reducing toxins in your home. We’ll walk you through three effective methods in this post.
Why choose a natural air freshener?
Conventional air fresheners may seem convenient, but many contain harmful chemicals that can negatively affect your indoor air quality. Synthetic fragrances, often labeled as “perfume” or “fragrance,” can hide a cocktail of chemicals, including phthalates, which are linked to respiratory issues and hormone disruption.
When you opt for a natural air freshener, you’re avoiding these toxins while taking a major step towards a healthier home environment for you and your family. (Plus, when guests compliment the lovely scent in your home, you can say you made it yourself!)
3 DIY natural air freshener recipes
Making your own natural air fresheners is easier than you might think. With just a few ingredients, you can create customized blends that reflect your favorite scents and match the seasons or your mood. Below are a few easy recipes to try.
1. Essential oil spray
One of the simplest ways to freshen the air in any room is by using an essential oil spray. Not only are essential oils natural, but they also offer aromatherapy benefits, helping to improve your mood and well-being.
What you’ll need:
- A spray bottle
- 1 cup of distilled water
- 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oils (try lavender or a blend of lemon and eucalyptus for a “clean” smell)
- 1 tablespoon of witch hazel or vodka (optional, helps the oil mix better with water)
Directions:
- Add the distilled water to your spray bottle.
- Drop in your chosen essential oils.
- Optionally: Add a tablespoon of witch hazel or vodka to help the mixture stay blended.
- Shake well before each use and spray in any room you’d like to freshen.
2. Simmer pots
Simmer pots are a wonderful way to naturally scent your home, especially during the colder months when you might want a cozy, inviting fragrance. The best part is you probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen!
What you’ll need:
- A small pot
- Water
- Slices of citrus (like lemon or orange)
- A handful of herbs (like rosemary or thyme)
- A few cinnamon sticks or whole cloves
Directions:
- Fill the pot with water and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Add the citrus slices, herbs, and spices.
- Let the mixture simmer, adding water as needed to keep the pot from drying out.
- Enjoy the natural fragrance that fills your home!
3. Baking soda air freshener jar
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that works wonders at absorbing unwanted odors. This simple baking soda air freshener jar can be placed in any room, and you can easily customize the scent by adding your favorite essential oils.
What you’ll need:
- A small glass jar
- Baking soda
- 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil(s)
- A piece of fabric or paper and a rubber band
Directions:
- Fill the jar halfway with baking soda.
- Add your essential oil drops and stir the mixture.
- Cover the jar with the fabric or paper, securing it with a rubber band.
- Place the jar in any room to help absorb odors and freshen the air naturally.
Extra tips for naturally freshening your home
Aside from using a natural air freshener, there are other simple ways to keep your home smelling fresh without relying on chemicals, like:
- Open your windows regularly: Even just 10-15 minutes of fresh air each day can do wonders for eliminating stale odors and improving indoor air quality.
- Use houseplants: Certain houseplants, like spider plants, peace lilies, and aloe vera, can help purify the air naturally.
- Clean with natural products: Many household odors come from surfaces that need a little TLC. Opt for natural cleaning products or DIY solutions like vinegar and baking soda to tackle grime without introducing toxins.
Freshen your space with a natural air freshener
Switching to a natural air freshener is a simple way to improve your home environment. By avoiding synthetic fragrances and chemicals, you’re making a meaningful choice for cleaner air and a healthier space. The beauty of these DIY options is their flexibility—tailor them to your preferences and experiment with scents that make you feel comfortable and refreshed.
Give one of these recipes a try and see how easy it is to freshen your home, naturally.
