We’ve already looked at how the sounds in a home impact its aura (read about this here and here). Today let’s consider the influence of scents.

While the scents in a home do not by themselves make its aura, they certainly do impact it. Many of us would be frustrated, agitated, and less productive if surrounded by unpleasant odors. You can see how this would make a negative contribution to a home’s aura (its overall quality or feeling). On the other hand, pleasant scents can make a positive contribution to a home’s aura by making us satisfied, calm, and productive.

Cleanliness and ventilation play important roles in maintaining fresh scents in the home. Even when these are addressed, yucky odors often develop through the course of everyday life. When this happens, we can use simple, healthy approaches to freshen the air in our homes.

Homemade, healthy air fresheners

We have to be very careful when selecting air freshening products because many commercially available varieties contain hazardous chemicals known to cause hormonal abnormalities, birth defects, and reproductive problems (read more about this here). Fortunately, it’s easy to make our own air fresheners that are free of these chemicals.

Homemade simmering potpourris

To create a simmering potpourri, you simmer fruits, spices, extracts, and/or essential oils in a liquid (usually water or apple juice).

Potpourris can be simmered in a pot on a stove or in a small slow cooker. Always check a simmering potpourri regularly so you can add liquid if it begins to run low.

• Classic citrus spice: Orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves in water
• Cranberry almond: Cranberries and almond extract in water
• Peppermint vanilla: Sliced vanilla beans and peppermint extract in water
• Coconut lime: Lime slices and coconut extract in water
• Fresh lemon: Lemon slices, vanilla extract, and a couple drops of lavender essential oil in water

Find additional simmering potpourri recipes here.

Homemade room sprays

You can combine water, essential oils, and extracts (or vodka, if you have it on hand) to create wonderfully scented room sprays. It’s best to store the room spray mixtures in small glass bottles (the oils tend to break down plastic). If you intend to use the sprays quickly, then plastic bottles will likely work just fine.

• Spicy citrus: 4 drops orange essential oil, 2 drops cinnamon essential oil, 2 drops cedarwood essential oil, and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract in 8 oz. water
• Fresh lemon: 6 drops lemon essential oil, 2 drops lavender essential oil, and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract in 8 oz. water
• Citrus carnival: 3 drops orange essential oil, 3 drops grapefruit essential oil, 2 drops lemon essential oil, and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract in 8 oz. water
• Soothing spice: 3 drops chamomile essential oil, 3 drops sandalwood essential oil, 2 drops lavender essential oil, and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract in 8 oz. water

Find additional room spray ideas here.

Carpet deodorizer

It’s incredibly easy to make homemade carpet deodorizer with only two ingredients: Baking soda and essential oil.

To make the deodorizer, simply mix 1 cup baking soda with 20-40 drops essential oil (you can use whichever oil you prefer, though you might consider using those with antibacterial properties). Place the deodorizer in a shaker jar (such as an empty spice jar or similar container that has a lid with holes). Allow it to sit for a day so the oils permeate the baking soda.

When ready to use, lightly sprinkle your carpet with the deodorizer. Allow to sit for 10 minutes and then vacuum as you usually do.

In what ways do scents influence the aura in your home? Do you use any of these strategies? What other tips can you add?

Shared on the following link-ups:

Essential Fridays, Welcome Home Wednesday, Growing Homemakers & Titus 2 Tuesday.