Keeping my home smelling fresh without using toxic sprays has become a routine I genuinely enjoy. I’ve discovered a variety of natural methods that not only enhance the scent of my space but also promote a healthier environment.
Using these non-toxic alternatives has not only transformed my home but also made me feel good about what I’m using in my space.
Baking soda in your refrigerator
I always keep a box of baking soda in my refrigerator. It’s an easy way to get rid of any nasty smells.
Baking soda works by absorbing those funky smells that can happen over time. This helps keep my fridge fresh without any harsh chemicals.
I usually replace the box every few months to ensure it stays effective. You can even get a box designed specifically for the fridge, with vents that allow odors to flow in easily.
Just a little baking soda can make a big difference in how my food tastes, keeping everything smelling and tasting fresh.
Lavender sachets in closets
I love keeping my closets smelling fresh with lavender sachets. They’re easy to make and leave my clothes smelling sweet, but not overpowering.
To make a sachet, I fill small fabric bags with dried lavender buds. I sometimes add a few drops of lavender essential oil for an extra kick.
Once filled, I just tie them off and pop them in my closets. The scent helps to keep my clothes smelling nice without using any harsh chemicals.
Every few months, I refresh the sachets by replacing the lavender, and it makes such a difference!
Simmer cinnamon sticks on the stove
I love simmering cinnamon sticks on the stove to make my home smell warm and cozy. It’s super simple and requires just a few ingredients.
I fill a pot with about two cups of water and toss in 3-5 cinnamon sticks. The number can vary depending on how strong I want the scent to be.
I heat it on the stove until it’s at a gentle simmer, avoiding a vigorous boil to keep the essential oils intact. Sometimes, I add extras like citrus peels or cloves for a twist.
Diffuse essential oils like lemon or eucalyptus
I love using essential oils to keep my home smelling fresh. Lemon and eucalyptus are my go-to scents.
Lemon oil has a bright, refreshing smell that instantly lifts my mood. Just a few drops in a diffuser make my space feel cleaner.
Eucalyptus oil is great for adding a spa-like vibe. Its calming scent helps me relax after a long day of chasing my boys around the house.
Both oils can help neutralize odors and freshen the air naturally. I often mix them for an energizing blend that smells amazing.
Clean fabrics regularly
I find that keeping my fabrics clean is key to a fresh-smelling home. Sofas, curtains, and linens can hold onto odors from cooking, pets, and daily life.
I wash my throw pillows and blankets often. It makes a big difference in how everything smells.
For curtains, a quick vacuum or a wash every few months does wonders. I also use fabric sprays made from natural ingredients for an extra boost. Even my rugs get a good shake outside now and then.
Activated charcoal bags in musty areas
Charcoal bags are a natural way to absorb odors without any harsh chemicals. I place these bags in closets, basements, and even in my shoes. They’re great at capturing that damp, musty scent that sometimes creeps in.
Whenever I feel like an area needs a refresh, I just hang or set a bag in the space. Plus, they are reusable and can last for months with proper care.
DIY vodka and essential oil spray
Got some old vodka you need to use up? I love making my own room spray using vodka and essential oils. It’s a super easy way to keep my home smelling fresh without nasty chemicals.
To make it, I fill a spray bottle with two parts vodka and one part water. From there, I add about 20 drops of my favorite essential oils. Lavender is a go-to, but if I’m wanting something a little brighter, I like to use lemon.
I shake it up to mix, and it’s good to go. This spray not only freshens up the air but also eliminates odors on furniture and fabrics. Plus, I can switch up the scents whenever I want!
Add a few drops of tea tree oil to the vacuum
One of my favorite tricks for keeping my home smelling fresh is adding a few drops of tea tree oil to my vacuum. It’s super easy and makes a huge difference.
Before I start vacuuming, I just put a few drops on the vacuum filter. The scent releases as I clean, filling my space with a clean, natural scent.
Tea tree oil also has antibacterial properties, which can help reduce odors trapped in carpets. I love knowing that I’m not just cleaning, but also freshening up my home with a natural solution. Plus, it’s refreshing to breathe in something that isn’t full of chemicals.
Use hanging herbal sachets in linen cabinets
I love using hanging herbal sachets in my linen cabinets. They keep my linens smelling fresh and also keeps the pests away.
I usually fill these sachets with herbs like lavender and cedar. The scents are calming, and they add a sweet touch to the space.
It’s super easy to make them; just sew a small pouch, fill it with your herbs, and hang it in the cabinet. Every time I open the door, I’m in awe of just how good it smells.
Place dried citrus peels near windowsills
I love using dried citrus peels to freshen up my home. They bring a nice, zesty scent that that makes my house smell so good.
All I do is place them on my windowsills where they catch the breeze. This helps release their scent throughout the house.
For an extra boost, I sometimes put the peels on my radiators. The warmth boosts their fragrance.
It’s a simple, eco-friendly way to keep my home smelling great without resorting to harsh chemicals. Plus, it’s a fun way to repurpose something that would otherwise be thrown away.
Set up a vinegar and water air purifier
I love using a simple mixture of vinegar and water to keep the air in my home fresh. It’s easy to make and works wonders.
For my air purifier, I fill a bowl with a mix of equal parts vinegar and water. This combination helps absorb odors the best.
If I want to enhance the scent, I’ll add a few drops of essential oil. It masks the vinegar smell while still purifying the air. I place the bowl in areas where I notice stale odors, like the kitchen or living room.