I love having a fresh-smelling home, but I don't want to use chemical air fresheners that can be harmful to my health and my house.
That's why I started making my own DIY homemade natural air fresheners. Not only are they easy and fun to make, but they also smell amazing and are safe for my family and pets.
There are many different types of natural air fresheners you can make at home using simple ingredients like vinegar, essential oils, herbs, and fruits. Whether you want to freshen up your bathroom, kitchen, bedroom, or living room, there's always a DIY air freshener recipe that you can try to suit your needs and preferences.
I love candles and those scented oil plug-ins to help freshen up my home's scent, but I also enjoy the quick-fix a good air freshener brings. The downside of store-bought freshers is that they're filled with chemicals that sometimes tend to override the pleasant smell they're supposed to bring. Sorry, but I don't like my home smelling like nasty chemicals-that and they're bad for you.
Yeah, I totally forgot the "e" in the word "freshener" when editing this photo, but that's beside the point...
After three attempts at making my very own air freshener, I finally got it!
Here's what you need:
- A spray bottle (I just used an old Mrs. Meyers Countertop Spray bottle that I rinsed really well)
- 1 cup water (not pictured)
- 2 tablespoons alcohol (although I think 1 would be better)
- 20-30 drops essential oil/s (I used 25 drops of lemon and 15 drops eucalyptus- lovely combination)
Simply pour the water, alcohol and oils into your bottle and shake it, baby!
Actually, you will need to shake it prior to every use- don't forget that or you're going to wonder what happened to your lovely scent.
What didn't work for me:
- Adding baking soda: it clogged the spray's nozzle!
- Using only water and essential oils: no matter how many drops I added (and I added PLENTY) the scent wasn't very strong and didn't linger at all!
The winning solution my family is now loving (even my daughter will say, "Mmmmm, Mom. It smells good.") is actually a linen spray but I use it mostly as an air freshener (I'm very careful with what I spray on my linens since I have sensitive skin). I adapted this little recipe from this one.
The combination of the lemon and eucalyptus is so very fresh, clean and invigorating! Love, love, love it - and I can't wait to experiment with other oils (lavender is really calling out to me!)
Ingredients for DIY Natural Air Fresheners
As someone who loves to keep my home smelling fresh and clean, I have discovered that making my own natural air fresheners is not only cost-effective but also fun and easy. The best part is that I can customize the scent to my liking and avoid harsh chemicals found in commercial air fresheners.
Here are some of the ingredients I use to make my own natural air fresheners:
Essential Oils
Essential oils are a great natural alternative to synthetic fragrances. They are extracted from plants and contain the plant's natural scent. Some of my favorite essential oils to use for air fresheners are lavender, peppermint, lemon, and eucalyptus. Each oil has its own unique properties, and I love experimenting with different combinations to create my own signature scent.
Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are not only delicious but also great for making natural air fresheners. Cut up some citrus fruits and place them in a bowl with water. The natural oils in the fruit will be released into the air, creating a fresh, citrusy scent. You can also add some herbs like rosemary or thyme to the bowl for an extra boost of fragrance.
Herbs and Spices
Herbs and spices are another great way to add natural fragrance to your home. Some of my favorites include cinnamon, cloves, and rosemary. You can make a simple air freshener by simmering herbs and spices in a pot of water on the stove. The steam will carry the scent throughout your home. You can also make a sachet by placing herbs and spices in a small cloth bag and hanging it in your closet or drawers.
Making your own natural air fresheners is a great way to keep your home smelling fresh and clean without using harsh chemicals. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create your own signature scent and enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy at home.
Methods for Making Homemade Air Fresheners
As someone who is passionate about creating a natural and healthy home environment, I have found that making my own air fresheners is a great way to avoid the harmful chemicals found in store-bought products. Here are three methods I use to make homemade air fresheners:
Sprays
One of the easiest ways to make a homemade air freshener is by creating a spray. To make a spray, I typically combine water, essential oils, and a natural emulsifier like witch hazel or vodka in a spray bottle. I then shake the bottle well before using it to freshen up any room in my home.
Here is a simple recipe for a lavender spray:
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Distilled water | 1 cup |
| Lavender essential oil | 10-20 drops |
| Witch hazel | 1 tablespoon |
Combine the ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well before using.
Diffusers
Another way is by using a diffuser. Diffusers work by dispersing essential oils into the air, creating a natural and pleasant scent. I like to use a reed diffuser, which is easy to make and can be reused again and again.
Here is how I make a reed diffuser:
- Fill a small glass jar with a carrier oil like sweet almond oil or jojoba oil.
- Add 10-20 drops of your favorite essential oil.
- Insert reed diffuser sticks into the jar and let them soak up the oil.
- Flip the sticks every few days to keep the scent fresh.
Sachets
Sachets are another great way to make a homemade freshener. They are small bags filled with dried flowers, herbs, or other natural materials that emit a pleasant scent. Sachets can be placed in drawers, closets, or anywhere that needs a little freshening up.
Here is how I make a lavender sachet:
- Cut a small piece of muslin or cotton fabric into a square.
- Place a handful of dried lavender flowers in the center of the fabric.
- Fold the fabric over the flowers and tie it closed with a ribbon or string.
Natural Air Freshener Benefits
There are several benefits to using natural air fresheners in your home or office:
- Healthier Environment: Natural air fresheners help to improve the indoor air quality by eliminating pollutants and harmful chemicals. Unlike synthetic air fresheners, natural air fresheners do not contain harmful chemicals or toxins that can negatively impact your health.
- Environmentally Friendly: Natural air fresheners are made from natural ingredients, which are biodegradable and do not harm the environment. They do not contribute to air pollution, water pollution or landfill waste.
- Cost-Effective: Natural air fresheners are typically cheaper than synthetic air fresheners. You can easily make your own natural air fresheners with ingredients like essential oils, citrus fruits, herbs, and baking soda.
- Versatile: Natural air fresheners can be used in various ways such as sprays, diffusers, candles, and potpourri. They come in a variety of scents, which can help create a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere in your home or office.
- Mood Enhancing: Certain natural scents have been found to improve mood and reduce stress levels. For example, lavender is known for its calming effects, while citrus scents are known to be energizing and uplifting.
As someone who cares about their health and the environment, I have found that using homemade natural air fresheners has been a game-changer. They are a great alternative to synthetic air fresheners, as they are healthier, eco-friendly, cost-effective, versatile, and mood-enhancing.
Eco-Friendly
One of the most significant benefits of using homemade natural air fresheners is that they are eco-friendly. Unlike commercial air fresheners that contain harmful chemicals and contribute to air pollution, homemade fresheners use natural ingredients that are safe for the environment.
By making your own air fresheners, you can reduce your carbon footprint and help to create a healthier planet for future generations. Plus, you can save money by using ingredients that you already have at home, such as baking soda, vinegar, and essential oils.
Health Benefits
Another benefit of using homemade natural air fresheners is that they have health benefits. Commercial air fresheners can contain chemicals that can irritate your lungs and cause respiratory problems. Homemade natural fresheners, on the other hand, use natural ingredients that are safe for you and your family.
For example, using essential oils can have therapeutic benefits. Lavender oil, for instance, is known for its calming properties and can help to reduce stress and anxiety. Peppermint oil is invigorating and can help to boost your mood and energy levels.
Additionally, using natural ingredients like baking soda and vinegar can help to eliminate odors without masking them with synthetic fragrances. Baking soda absorbs odors, while vinegar neutralizes them, leaving your home smelling fresh and clean.
Safety Precautions for Homemade Air Fresheners
As someone who enjoys making my own fresheners, I always keep safety in mind. Here are some safety precautions to consider when making them:
Label and Store Properly
It is important to label with the ingredients used and the date it was made. This will help you keep track of the freshness and avoid using expired air fresheners. Store your air fresheners in a secure location away from children and pets.
Use Essential Oils Carefully
Essential oils are a popular ingredient and while they are natural, they can be harmful if not used properly. Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil or water before using them. Use essential oils in moderation and avoid using them around pregnant women, infants, and pets.
Avoid Irritants
Some ingredients used can be irritants. For example, vinegar can be irritating to a child's sensitive skin. If you are using an ingredient that can be an irritant, make sure to label and store it in a secure location away from children and pets.
Test on a Small Area
Before using your homemade air freshener, test it on a small area first to make sure it does not cause any adverse reactions. This is especially important if you are using a new ingredient or essential oil.
Use Quality Ingredients
Using high-quality ingredients will ensure that your freshener is effective and safe to use. Make sure to use distilled water and high-quality essential oils. Avoid using expired or low-quality ingredients.
By following these safety precautions, you can enjoy the benefits of homemade fresheners without compromising your health and safety.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making your own natural air freshener is an easy and cost-effective way to keep your home smelling fresh and clean. Not only these are free from harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances, but they can also be customized to your personal preferences.
Throughout my research, I found that there are many different options for making your own air freshener, ranging from simple essential oil sprays to more complex pomander balls and diffuser blends. Each method has its own unique benefits and drawbacks, so it's important to choose the one that works best for you.
One of the key advantages of making your own air freshener is that you can control the ingredients and avoid any potential allergens or irritants. This is especially important for those with sensitive skin or respiratory issues. By using natural ingredients like essential oils, citrus fruits, and spices, you can create a pleasant and healthy environment in your home.
Another benefit is that they are often more affordable than store-bought options. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a long-lasting and effective freshener that won't break the bank. Plus, many of these ingredients can be found at your local grocery store or health food store.
Overall, I highly recommend trying out some of these recipes for yourself. Not only will you save money and avoid harsh chemicals, but you'll also enjoy a fresh and inviting home that smells great. So why not give it a try today?
Since this recipe could be customized, what other oils would you love to try this DIY air freshener recipe with?
And as always, Thanks for stopping by!
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