5 DIY Natural Air Fresheners That Actually Work

Let’s be real: nobody wants their house to smell like last night’s dinner—or worse, a mystery funk you can’t quite locate.

But some of those store-bought sprays? Whoa. Overpowering, full of chemicals, and the scent disappears in five minutes anyway.

Glass jar of baking soda surrounded by sliced lemons, amber essential oil bottles, and pastel cleaning cloths on a neutral countertop—ingredients for a homemade air freshener.

5 DIY Natural Air Fresheners That Actually Work

That’s why these natural air fresheners are the real deal. They’re made with simple ingredients (mostly from Dollar Tree or stuff already in your pantry), they actually smell good, and they won’t gas you out of your own kitchen.

If DIY air fresheners are your thing, you’ll love the full breakdown of natural cleaning swaps in Top DIY Cleaning Recipes with Essential Oils. It’s packed with affordable, non-toxic ways to freshen your home—without the chemical storm or the price tag.

🍋 1. Lemon + Baking Soda Jar

This one’s like a mini detox for your space. Grab a small mason jar, fill it halfway with baking soda, and add about 10 drops of lemon essential oil. Poke holes in the lid (or cover it with breathable fabric + a rubber band), and boom—odor neutralizer on deck.

Stick it in the bathroom, under the sink, or near the litter box. You’ll be shocked how much funk it absorbs.

🌿 2. Stovetop Simmer

When you want your whole house to smell like cozy Pinterest vibes, this is the move. In a small pot, combine:
A few citrus slices (lemons, oranges—whatever you have)
A couple cinnamon sticks
A splash of vanilla
Water to cover

Simmer on low and let it work its magic. You can reuse it for a couple of days—just top it off with more water.

This is also a great time to keep track of your favorite go-to ingredients. The Freezer Labels & Inventory Pack makes it easy to remember what you’ve got stashed away (and what’s about to expire).

🌸 3. Fabric Softener + Baking Soda Spray

Don’t sleep on this one. Mix together:
2 cups warm water
1 tablespoon baking soda
2 tablespoons of fabric softener (even the tiny ones from Dollar Tree work)

Pour into a spray bottle, shake well, and spritz away. It’s perfect for couches, curtains, rugs—anything that holds onto smells.

A stainless steel saucepan on a stovetop filled with simmering water, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and herbs—creating a homemade air freshener.

🌼 4. Gel Air Fresheners

These are surprisingly easy and cute enough to leave out on a shelf. You’ll need:
Unflavored gelatin packets
Water
Essential oils
Food coloring (optional)
Salt (to prevent mold)
A small jar or dish

Mix the gelatin with boiling water (follow the packet instructions), stir in a few drops of essential oil, a pinch of salt, and coloring if you’re feeling fancy. Pour into containers and let them set. Done.

If your kitchen and bathroom always feel like they’re in chaos mode, the 28 Day Cleaning Plan helps you stay ahead of the mess—just 15 minutes a day.

🍃 5. Cotton Balls in a Hidden Dish

No time? No problem. Just soak a few cotton balls in your favorite essential oil (lavender, eucalyptus, or even peppermint are great) and tuck them behind a toilet, in the bottom of a trash can, or in your car cup holder. Total lifesaver.

And for the days when energy is low but the mess is high, our Tired Mom’s Cleaning Hacks printable guide is filled with easy, guilt-free shortcuts to get your house back to livable without burning out (or feeling like you just need to burn it all down and start over..).