Let’s be real—most of us want our homes to smell clean and feel fresh, but we also don’t want to inhale a bunch of synthetic fragrances and harsh chemicals to make that happen. If you’ve ever flipped over a store-bought air freshener and couldn’t pronounce half the ingredients… you’re not alone.

The good news? You don’t need artificial sprays or plug-ins to create a home that smells amazing. Here are three simple, natural alternatives that actually work to freshen your home without chemicals.

1. Simmer Pots (Stovetop Potpourri)

This is one of my favorite ways to instantly make your home feel cozy and inviting—especially when guests are coming over or you just want a little mood lift.

What to Do:

Grab a small pot, fill it halfway with water, and add any combination of the following:

• Orange or lemon slices

• Cinnamon sticks

• Cloves or star anise

• A splash of vanilla extract

• Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme

Bring it to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it steam. It fills your home with a subtle, comforting aroma without any fake stuff.

Tip: Keep adding water as it evaporates so it lasts all day!

2. Baking Soda + Essential Oils Air Freshener

This DIY combo is a classic for a reason—it absorbs odors and adds a clean scent using just a few natural ingredients.

What You’ll Need:

• ½ cup baking soda

• 10–15 drops of essential oil (I love lavender, lemon, eucalyptus, or peppermint)

• A small glass jar with a lid (like a mason jar)

• A piece of breathable fabric or paper with holes

How to Make It:

1. Mix the baking soda and oils in the jar.

2. Cover the top with the breathable material and secure it with the lid ring or rubber band.

3. Place it in closets, bathrooms, or near the litter box to keep odors at bay.

Why It Works: Baking soda naturally neutralizes odors instead of masking them, and the essential oils give it a gentle, clean scent.

3. DIY Linen & Room Spray

This is perfect for freshening up your couch, bedding, curtains—or just misting the air when you need a quick refresh.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup distilled water

• 1 tablespoon witch hazel (or vodka)

• 20–30 drops of essential oil(s)

• A small spray bottle (preferably glass)

Instructions:

1. Combine everything in the bottle.

2. Shake before each use.

3. Lightly spritz pillows, curtains, towels, or anywhere else that needs a boost.

Bonus: You can customize the scent for seasons or moods—citrus for summer, cinnamon and clove for fall, eucalyptus for a spa vibe.

Why Go Non-Toxic?

Many store-bought air fresheners contain synthetic fragrances, phthalates, and chemicals that can affect air quality, irritate allergies, or disrupt hormones over time. By choosing DIY alternatives, you’re not just creating a fresher home—you’re creating a healthier one.

Want More Simple Swaps?

If you like these kinds of easy, natural solutions, you’ll love you will love my other DIY recipes at Healthy Roots DIY. Sign up for the newsletter to get more wholesome recipes, clean-living tips, and gentle DIYs delivered straight to your inbox.