3 Ways to Fill Your Home With Autumn Scents

Red apples surrounded by cinnamon sticks and a pie in the background.

It goes without saying that the autumn season is one of the most popular times of the year. Many people adore the familiar elements of cool weather, back-to-school season, and cozy recipes. We can thank the warm, comforting aromas for the season’s popularity; they are exactly what makes autumn so lovable.

Fortunately, you can encourage fall vibes in your home by creating simple projects scented with natural ingredients. These options are desirable if you are looking for healthier alternatives to store bought candles or air fresheners. The best part is that you will be able to save some cash for your favorite autumn activities.

These easy handmade projects work best in spaces such as bedrooms, bathrooms, and living rooms. Keep in mind that you can personalize the scents to fit your taste and style. Once you find one that you love, enjoy your new creation by curling up with a good book and a pumpkin spice latte.

1. Baking Powder Air Freshener

A homemade air freshener with striped paper and a jar.

Fans of all-natural cleaning know all about the power of baking powder. This versatile ingredient serves as an inexpensive and safe deodorizer for your home. By itself, it can freshen up your space without dangerous chemicals. It's also ideal for absorbing unpleasant aromas in your refrigerator and kitchen. However, baking powder also doubles as a carrier for essential oils, making it a useful ingredient in homemade fresheners. Fortunately, creating your own baking powder air freshener is extremely easy and does not require fancy supplies.

Simply fill a small 4-ounce mason jar halfway with baking powder. Add your favorite autumn-scented essential oils to the baking powder. For autumn vibes, use “warm” aromas such as cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, and orange. Rosemary and oregano can bring in herb-inspired notes. To add a sweet touch, bring in cranberry, lemon, or orange essential oils. Again, do not be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find a scent that you love.

To finish the baking powder air freshener, separate the round lid portion from the ring. Trace the lid onto a paper and cut it out. You can even use paper with fall prints and colors. Re-insert the paper circle into the lid and screw it onto the jar. Finally, pierce the paper with a fork. This step will create holes that will let the aroma of the essential oils waft into your space.

2. Stove Top Potpourri

Stove top potpourri.

Another way to infuse your home with autumn scents is to make a stove top potpourri. Unlike conventional potpourri, you do not have to wait for the ingredients to dry before using it. This version emits scents while you make it, filling up your home with comforting notes reminiscent of the holidays.

Like the baking powder air freshener, minimal skills and materials are required for this quick project. There is a good chance that you already own all of the supplies needed. To begin, you will need a small stainless steel pot. Fill it halfway with apple cider or orange juice. Bring in additional ingredients that remind you of crisp fall weather such as cinnamon sticks, vanilla extract, sliced oranges, and fresh rosemary. You can also add a few sprinkles of spices such as nutmeg, allspice, clove, and pumpkin pie spice. If you’d like, add a sprinkling of used coffee rinds for an aromatic wake-up call.

Heat the mixture over medium heat for 20-30 minutes. Check frequently to make sure the ingredients are not burning. Remember, the liquid will eventually evaporate. It is crucial that you keep an eye on the solid elements of the potpourri.

This is an ideal way to fill your home with pleasant scents when you have guests over. A casual gathering in the kitchen provides the best type of atmosphere for enjoying (and closely watching) your stove top potpourri. Once the liquid has evaporated, your solid ingredients can still be salvaged. Leave them out to dry under the sun to create conventional potpourri. After they're dry, you can place these solids in a small muslin bag or a bowl. How’s that for sticking to a budget?

3. Wrapped Candles

A candle wrapped in cinnamon sticks.

If you’re looking for a scent option that doubles as décor, consider wrapping soy candles with cinnamon sticks. This is an excellent way to create a beautiful tabletop display that your entire family can enjoy during the holiday season. Additionally, by using soy candles you will decrease the amount of chemicals being released in your home.

Start by placing a rubber band around a pillar candle. Add cinnamon sticks underneath the rubber band until the entire circumference of the candle is covered. Tightly wrap the cinnamon sticks with twine. You can also add a strand of festive ribbon for a holiday touch. Carefully slip off the rubber band.

At first, you can burn the candle without a jar or glass holder. However, keep in mind that the candle wax will be fully exposed, increasing the chances for a sticky mess. Your best bet is to place the candle in a glass container to protect your surface.