We’ve compiled several ways you can add your favorite scents to your home. However, routine basic cleaning is essential to reducing unpleasant smells. Proper cleaning, making repairs to prevent leaks, pest control, and frequent removal of clutter and garbage goes a long way to a home that smells lovely. Adding fragrance may mask problems temporarily but won’t solve the root of the malodor.
Vinegar: You may not love the smell of vinegar but placing an open bowl of apple cider or distilled white vinegar in a corner will help trap cooking and cigarette smoke odors. Deactivated charcoal: Charcoal will not add a scent to the air but it will absorb malodors. Baking soda: Just as baking soda works to absorb odors in your refrigerator, a bowl placed in a room will also absorb odors. Lemon water: Water absorbs odors and adding slices of fresh lemon will provide a clean citrus scent. Coffee grounds: Fresh coffee grounds add a scent to the air but also absorb odors when placed in an open bowl. Vanilla or peppermint extract: Saturate a few cotton balls with cooking extracts and place them on small saucers around the room. They also work great when placed in a vacuum bag or dust cup to add a bit of scent as you clean.
Simply fill a small saucepan with water and bring it to a boil. Add the ingredients you’ve chosen and allow them to boil for three minutes. Reduce the heat to low and let the brew simmer. Check the level of water every 30 minutes or so and add more as needed. You can also use a slow cooker to create a simmer pot. You can make your own candles or choose from dozens of scents. When making your selection, it is best to choose candles made from beeswax, vegetable, or soy wax like the candles from Old Whaling Co and those without wicks that contain metal. Paraffin-based candles are made from petroleum that releases hydrocarbons or VOCs into the air.
