Who doesn’t love walking into a home that smells wonderfully fresh and clean? However, keeping a house smelling great all the time isn’t always easy, especially if you have pets, kids, or a busy lifestyle. But don’t worry, because I’ve got you covered! I’ve found 15 simple yet effective ways to keep my home smelling amazing, and I’m eager to share them with you. By following these tips, you’ll find that maintaining a fresh-smelling home is easier than you think.
1. Open Your Windows
There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh air. Opening your windows, even for just a few minutes a day, can do wonders in refreshing your home. It allows stale air to exit and fresh air to circulate, eliminating unwanted odors in the process.
You might be thinking – what if I live in a big city or it’s too cold outside? Don’t worry! Even a quick burst of fresh air can make a significant difference. And remember, it’s all about balance. If the outdoor air quality isn’t great, maybe limit the time you keep your windows open. But whenever you can, let in that beautiful outside air!
2. Use Essential Oils
Essential oils are a fantastic way to keep your home smelling beautiful, and they come with therapeutic benefits too! You can use them in a variety of ways: add a few drops to your diffuser, mix them in a spray bottle with water, or even dab a little onto your light bulbs (just make sure the light is off and cool first!).
When choosing essential oils, go for high-quality ones to avoid any synthetic chemicals. Some popular choices for a fresh-smelling home include lemon, lavender, eucalyptus, and peppermint. Experiment with different scents and combinations to find what you love most. Remember, a little goes a long way with these potent oils!
3. Regularly Clean Your Trash Can
It’s easy to forget about the trash can when you’re cleaning, but it can be a major source of bad smells. Make sure to clean it out regularly to prevent any lingering odors.
Start by emptying the trash and then give it a good scrub using a mixture of warm water and dish soap. For a deeper clean, you can also use a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. Let it sit for about 20 minutes, then rinse it out and let it dry before putting a new bag in. As a bonus tip, consider using scented trash bags or putting a few drops of essential oil at the bottom of your bin for a fresh scent every time you open it.
4. Bake Some Goodies
Who can resist the smell of freshly baked cookies or bread? Baking not only provides you with delicious treats but also fills your home with a comforting and inviting aroma.
You don’t need to be a master baker to take advantage of this tip. Even simple recipes like banana bread or chocolate chip cookies can make your home smell amazing. Plus, you’ll have a tasty reward waiting for you once you’re done! If you’re not into baking, you can simply heat some vanilla extract or cinnamon in the oven for a similar effect.
5. Use Scented Candles
Scented candles are a classic solution for a reason: they work! They come in a wide variety of fragrances, so you can pick the ones that suit your preference.
Choose soy or beeswax candles as they’re cleaner and don’t produce soot. Remember to trim the wicks before each use to avoid unnecessary smoke. For safety, never leave burning candles unattended and keep them away from flammable items.
6. Try Potpourri
Potpourri is a mixture of dried, naturally fragrant plant materials, typically used to provide a gentle natural scent in houses. It’s an old-fashioned method, but it still works wonders in keeping your home smelling good.
You can purchase premade potpourri or make your own by drying out fragrant flowers, herbs, and fruit peels. Place your potpourri in decorative bowls around your home or in small sachets that you can tuck into drawers and closets.
7. Regularly Clean Your Carpets
Carpets can trap odors, so regular cleaning is a must. Depending on the traffic it gets, aim to deep clean your carpet at least once or twice a year.
For regular maintenance, sprinkling some baking soda on your carpet before vacuuming can help absorb unwanted smells. If you have pets, consider a carpet cleaner specifically designed to tackle pet odors.
8. Use an Air Purifier
Air purifiers can effectively remove odor-causing particles from the air, making them an excellent tool for keeping your home smelling fresh.
Look for one with a HEPA filter, as these can capture even the smallest particles. It’s also worth considering a model with an activated carbon filter, which is especially good at removing odors.
9. Keep Your Fridge Clean
A smelly fridge can quickly make your kitchen unpleasant. Regular cleaning and organization can prevent this.
Empty your fridge every few weeks to wipe down the shelves with a mixture of vinegar and water. This will kill bacteria and neutralize odors. To absorb future smells, keep a box of baking soda or some activated charcoal in your fridge.
10. Use a Simmer Pot
Simmer pots are a simple and natural way to make your home smell amazing. All you need to do is bring a pot of water to a simmer and add your choice of fragrant ingredients.
Some popular options include cinnamon sticks, citrus peels, and cloves. You can also add in some apple slices during the fall for a cozy, autumnal scent. Just make sure to keep an eye on your simmer pot and add more water as needed.
11. Maintain Your Washing Machine
A musty washing machine can lead to less-than-fresh laundry. Regular maintenance can prevent this.
Run an empty cycle with hot water and a cup of white vinegar once a month. Leave the door open after each use to let the machine dry out. If your machine has a cleaning cycle, use it!
12. Freshen Your Drains
Drains can become a source of unpleasant odors if not properly maintained. Luckily, freshening them up is easy.
Pour a half cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a half cup of vinegar. Wait 15-20 minutes, then rinse with hot water. This will not only deodorize your drains but also keep them clear.
13. Fragrance Your Linens
Your bed and bathroom linens can hold onto odors. Keep them smelling fresh with linen sprays.
You can buy premade sprays or make your own by mixing water and your favorite essential oils in a spray bottle. Spritz your linens regularly for a constant fresh scent.
14. Clean Your Pet’s Things
If you have pets, their things can be a source of odors. Regular cleaning can prevent this.
Wash their beds and toys regularly, and keep litter boxes clean. If your pet has accidents, clean them up immediately to prevent the smell from settling in.
15. Use House Plants
House plants not only add to your home’s decor, but they can also improve air quality and reduce odors.
Look for plants known for their air-purifying qualities, like spider plants or peace lilies. Just make sure to choose plants that are safe for any pets you may have.