How to DIY Air Fresheners for a Naturally Fresh Home

Let’s be honest—no one wants their home smelling like last night’s curry, a damp dog, or whatever mystery odour is lingering in the laundry room. But before you reach for that store-bought air freshener packed with synthetic fragrances and questionable chemicals, there’s a better (and healthier) way to freshen up your space!

Making a DIY Air freshener is not only budget-friendly and eco-conscious, but it also lets you customise scents to suit your mood—whether you’re after something calming, energising, or just plain lovely. Let’s dive into some simple, DIY air freshener ideas that will keep your home smelling fresh—minus the toxic cloud.

Why Avoid Commercial Air Fresheners?

Most store-bought air fresheners are more than just a quick-fix fragrance boost—they can contain phthalates, formaldehyde, and artificial chemicals that can irritate skin, trigger allergies, and even mess with indoor air quality. Some are even linked to hormone disruption. Yikes.

Making DIY air freshener means you get full control over what goes into your home’s air. Plus, you can switch up scents depending on the vibe you’re after. Need a relaxing, spa-like feel? Try lavender. Want a burst of freshness? Citrus is your best friend.

Ready to get started? Here are seven easy DIY air freshener ideas to keep your home smelling amazing.

1. Essential Oil Room Spray – A Quick Refresh

A simple and effective way to freshen up any room.

You’ll need:

• 1 cup distilled water (distilled preferred - here’s how to make it)

• 2 tablespoons witch hazel, rubbing alcohol or vodka (helps disperse the oils)

• 15–20 drops essential oil of choice (lavender, citrus, peppermint, eucalyptus—mix it up!)

• A spray bottle

How to make it:

1. Pour the distilled water into a spray bottle.

2. Add the witch hazel or vodka.

3. Drop in your favourite essential oils.

4. Shake well and spritz whenever your space needs a refresh.

💡 Extra Tip: Spray lightly on linens or curtains for a subtle, lasting scent.

2. Baking Soda Odour Absorber – No More Funky Smells

This is a DIY air freshener idea that’s perfect for musty spaces like bathrooms, pet areas, and even the fridge.

You’ll need:

• ½ cup baking soda

• 10–15 drops essential oil (try tea tree for its antibacterial properties!)

• A small mason jar

• A piece of fabric or a breathable lid

How to make it:

1. Add the baking soda to your jar.

2. Mix in the essential oil.

3. Cover with a fabric lid or poke holes in the jar’s lid.

4. Place it wherever unwanted odours linger.

💡 Why It Works: Baking soda absorbs odours instead of just masking them. Think of it as a little odour-eating ninja.

3. Simmer Pot – Cozy, Comforting Scents

A natural DIY air freshener to make your home smell incredible, especially in cooler months.

You’ll need:

• 1 sliced lemon or orange

• 2–3 cinnamon sticks

• A handful of cloves

• 3–4 cups water

How to make it:

1. Add all ingredients to a pot and bring to a simmer.

2. Let it bubble gently, adding more water as needed.

3. Enjoy as the scent fills your home!

💡 Pro Tip: Experiment with combos like rosemary + grapefruit or vanilla + star anise for a unique twist.

4. DIY Reed Diffuser – Set-It-and-Forget-It Freshness

No flames, no electricity—just effortless, long-lasting scent kind of natural DIY air freshener.

You’ll need:

• ¼ cup carrier oil (fractionated coconut, sweet almond, or jojoba oil)

• 15–20 drops essential oil

• A small glass jar or bottle

• Bamboo skewers or reed sticks

How to make it:

1. Mix the carrier oil and essential oil in a jar.

2. Place the reeds in the jar and let them soak.

3. Flip the reeds once a week to refresh the scent.

💡 Perfect for: Bedrooms, bathrooms, or anywhere you want a subtle, consistent scent.

5. DIY Gel Air Fresheners – Fun & Functional

A cute, decorative DIY air freshener option that works wonders in small spaces.

You’ll need:

• 1 cup water

• 2 tablespoons gelatin powder

• 1 tablespoon salt (to prevent mould)

• 20 drops essential oil

• Food colouring (optional, for aesthetic appeal)

• Small glass jars

How to make it:

1. Heat ¾ cup of water in a saucepan.

2. Stir in the gelatin until dissolved.

3. Remove from heat and add salt, essential oil, and food colouring.

4. Pour into jars and let set at room temperature.

💡 Extra Touch: Add dried herbs or flower petals for a decorative effect!

6. Scented Wood Blocks – The Minimalist’s Trick

This DIY air freshener is perfect for freshening up drawers, closets, or even your car.

You’ll need:

• Small, untreated wood cubes or slices

• 10–15 drops essential oil

• A glass jar or glass container

How to make it:

1. Place wooden blocks in a jar or container.

2. Add essential oil, seal, and shake to coat evenly.

3. Let sit overnight before using.

💡 Why It’s Great: Long-lasting, portable, and chemical-free freshness.

7. Citrus Peel Fire Starters – Fresh & Functional

Because even your fireplace can smell amazing! 

You’ll need:

• Dried citrus peels (orange, lemon, lime)

• A few sprigs of rosemary or cinnamon sticks

How to use them:

1. Let citrus peels dry completely.

2. Toss them into the fire along with the herbs.

3. Enjoy the natural, fragrant burn.

💡 Eco Bonus: A great way to repurpose citrus scraps while keeping your home smelling fresh.

A Breath of Fresh Air—Naturally!

There you have it—seven simple, natural ways to freshen up your space without resorting to chemical-laden sprays and plug-ins. These DIY air freshener ideas not only keep your home smelling divine but also contribute to a healthier, toxin-free environment.

Which one of these natural DIY air fresheners are you trying first? Let us know in the comments, and share your favourite scent combinations—we’re always keen for fresh ideas!