9 DIY ideas to add natural scents to your home with the fragrance of your choice

Home decor ideas: Use citrus peels or dried herbs to decorate the outside of glass candle holders. As the candles burn, the heat will activate the natural scents and diffuse them, creating a pleasant atmosphere (Image: Canva)

Imagine stepping into your home after a long day, and instantly being greeted by the gentle scent of lavender wafting through the air, or perhaps the comforting aroma of freshly-baked cookies. These natural scents not only create a welcoming atmosphere but also have the power to evoke memories and emotions.

Here is how you can naturally scent your home according to the  fragrance to your choice:

Homemade potpourri: Combine dried flowers, herbs, and spices like lavender, rose petals, and cinnamon sticks in a decorative bowl. Lavender has been shown to have calming effects on mood and stress levels, while cinnamon may offer potential antimicrobial benefits. Essential oils can enhance the intensity of the fragrance for a more aromatic atmosphere.

Simmering stove-top scents: Simmer a pot of water on the stove with ingredients like citrus peels, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. Citrus peels can improve mood and provide a fresh aroma, while cinnamon and cloves can offer antimicrobial properties. The steam will carry the fragrance throughout your home, creating a soothing environment.

Herbal sachets: Fill small fabric pouches with dried herbs like rosemary, mint, or chamomile. These herbs may help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality when placed under pillows or in bedrooms. They also provide a subtle, natural scent that can refresh closets and drawers.

Citrus and herb diffuser: Fill a jar with water and add slices of lemon, lime, or orange along with fresh herbs like mint or basil. Citrus oils may uplift mood and increase alertness, while herbs can offer additional antimicrobial and calming effects. Add reeds or wooden skewers to absorb and diffuse the fragrance.

Scented pinecones: Collect pinecones and soak them in a mixture of water and essential oils like eucalyptus or cedarwood. These oils have potential antibacterial properties and can aid in relieving congestion when inhaled. Let the pinecones dry before placing them in a bowl or arranging them as a decorative piece.

Flower and herb wreaths: Create wreaths using dried or fresh flowers and herbs such as lavender, sage, or eucalyptus. These plants have been found to reduce stress and may have antimicrobial properties. Hang the wreaths in rooms for a pleasant, natural aroma.

Vanilla extract air freshner: Add a few drops of vanilla extract to a small dish or a cotton ball. Vanilla has a soothing scent that may help reduce stress and anxiety. Place the dish in a room to release a warm, comforting fragrance.

Scented candle holders: Use citrus peels or dried herbs to decorate the outside of glass candle holders. As the candles burn, the heat will activate the natural scents and diffuse them, creating a pleasant atmosphere. Be cautious when using candles to avoid fire hazards.

Lavender-infused salt: Mix coarse sea salt with dried lavender buds and a few drops of lavender essential oil. Lavender is known for its calming and anti-anxiety properties. Place the mixture in a decorative jar and leave it open in a room to slowly release its soothing scent.