So much of the holiday season is about scent and the smells of the season. Making natural DIY holiday scents is an easy way to fill our homes with the warm and inviting scents that define this festive time of year. While commercial air fresheners and scented candles might be the go-to option for some, there’s a natural and eco-friendly alternative that not only keeps your home smelling delightful but also adds a touch of rustic charm to your décor. We’re talking about DIY holiday scents using simmer pots and potpourri. Join us as we explore these easy and eco-conscious methods to infuse your home with the essence of the holidays.

The Simmer Pot: Nature’s Aromatherapy

Simmer pots are an age-old tradition, used by our ancestors to create fragrant and welcoming homes during the holidays. The beauty of simmer pots lies in their simplicity. All you need are some common kitchen ingredients, a pot, and water.

Ingredients for Your Simmer Pot

  • Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, limes)
  • Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage)
  • Spices (cinnamon sticks, cloves, ginger)
  • Vanilla extract
  • Water

Steps to Create Your Simmer Pot

  1. Fill a pot with water, about two-thirds full.
  2. Cut the citrus fruits into slices.
  3. Add the citrus slices, fresh herbs, spices, and a few drops of vanilla extract to the water.
  4. Place the pot on your stovetop and turn the heat to low.
  5. Allow the mixture to simmer, and as it warms up, your home will be filled with the delightful fragrance of the holidays.

Feel free to experiment with different combinations of ingredients to find the scent that suits your preferences. Some popular combinations include orange and cinnamon or lemon and rosemary. The possibilities are endless, and the aroma is sure to put you in the holiday spirit. Here’s a post with even more details.

Potpourri: A Timeless Holiday Tradition

Potpourri is another wonderful way to infuse your home with natural holiday scents. It’s not only easy to make but also makes for a delightful holiday gift.

Ingredients for Your Potpourri

  • Dried flowers (roses, lavender)
  • Dried citrus peels
  • Dried herbs (sage, thyme)
  • Spices (cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise)
  • Essential oils (cinnamon, pine, or orange)

Steps to Create Your Potpourri

  1. Gather your dried flowers, citrus peels, herbs, and spices in a bowl.
  2. Add a few drops of your chosen essential oil(s) to the mixture.
  3. Mix everything together thoroughly.
  4. Place your potpourri in a decorative bowl or pouch.

Your homemade potpourri can be displayed in various places around your home, such as the living room, bathroom, or bedroom. Whenever you want to refresh the scent, simply add a few more drops of essential oil. Check out this post for directions on how to quickly dry citrus and herbs.

This holiday season, let’s step away from synthetic fragrances and embrace the natural scents of the holidays with DIY simmer pots and potpourri. These easy and environmentally-friendly methods will not only make your home smell amazing but also add a touch of festive charm to your décor. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a home filled with the delightful aromas of the holiday season. Happy holidays!