How To Make Your Home Smell Good: 42 Genius Ways That Work!

Want a home that smells inviting. Look no further. There are many simple and cost-effective methods to keep your home smelling fresh. Perhaps you’re tired of walking into a house that doesn’t quite have the aroma you desire. The problem could be pet odors or lingering kitchen scents, but there’s hope. To start, decide on the scent you want your home to have – do you prefer the crispness of outdoors or something more fruity.

Once you’ve settled on a direction, explore the numerous options for making your house smell amazing from traditional candles and incense to simmering potpourri on the stove, there’s an approach that suits everyone’s taste. Let’s dive into these 40+ ways to instantly freshen up your home.

More ways to make your home smell amazing:

Transforming the ambiance of your home is just as important as maintaining its cleanliness. A pleasant scent can instantly lift your mood, making it an essential aspect of a comfortable living space. Fortunately, there are numerous natural ways to make your home smell amazing without relying on harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances. From air-purifying plants to clever DIY methods, the possibilities are endless.

How to keep your home smelling good all the time?

When seeking to eliminate unwanted odors from your home, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly rather than allowing lingering smells to persist and potentially intensify, take swift action by removing the root causes of the odor – be it dirty dishes, spills, or forgotten food. This proactive approach ensures a fresher living environment that remains so for longer. To maintain a pleasant aroma, regular maintenance is key.

This includes frequent vacuuming of carpets and upholstery to remove trapped particles and odorous debris, as well as consistent garbage removal before it becomes overpoweringly pungent. By taking these simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating a welcoming space that invites relaxation.

42 Ways to Make Your Home Smell Good.

Open Windows.

One of the most persistent complaints among homeowners is the musty smell that seems to linger despite their best efforts at cleanliness. This issue often stems from inadequate ventilation systems or the presence of storm windows blocking airflow. However, there are several effective ways to eliminate odors without relying on expensive air fresheners. A crucial first step is to open your windows and doors for a few hours over the course of 24 hours.

By doing so, you’ll allow fresh air with its naturally sweeter scent to enter your home, simultaneously ventilating any poorly ventilated areas.

Use a Diffuser.

To create a warm and inviting atmosphere at home, it’s crucial to prioritize your living space. After all, this is where you spend most of your time, and where cherished memories are often made with loved ones. Whether it’s family gatherings or impromptu visits from friends, a welcoming environment can make all the difference in ensuring everyone feels comfortable lingering.

One simple yet effective way to achieve this is by utilizing high-quality diffusers that effortlessly dispense a medley of soothing scents throughout your home. With just a few drops of essential oils and some basic tweaking, you can craft unique blends that cater to your mood or occasion. For instance, combine the invigorating zing of peppermint with the calming essence of lavender for a serene ambiance perfect for unwinding in the evening.

Simmer Apple Cider.

Transform your home’s ambiance by brewing apple cider. This simple and sweet recipe requires no culinary expertise, making it accessible to anyone. To create this delightful scent, simmer apple cider with cinnamon sticks or an actual apple in water and sugar on low heat. As the aroma wafts through your space, you’ll be enveloped in a cozy atmosphere.

Vacuum Weekly.

While it’s easy to overlook the importance of regular vacuuming, this simple habit can make a significant difference in the way your home smells. The fact is that vacuums are incredibly effective at removing dirt, dust, and allergens from carpets, furniture, and hardwood floors, leaving your space smelling fresh and clean. In contrast, simply sweeping the floor may not be enough to eliminate all the hidden particles and debris that can leave a lingering odor.

By committing to vacuum once or every other week, you’ll likely notice a noticeable improvement in the overall aroma of your home.

Clean Out Your Vacuum Bag/Canister.

Returning home to an unpleasant odour can be a frustrating experience. The accumulation of dirt, dust, pet fur, and cooking smells within your vacuum cleaner is a common issue that can significantly impact indoor air quality. As these substances build up, they can trigger allergic reactions or headaches in visitors.

A simple yet effective solution to this problem is to regularly clean your vacuum cleaner, which not only removes unpleasant odours but also helps maintain a healthy environment for you and your loved ones.

Hang a Eucalyptus Shower Bundle.

Transforming your bathroom into a serene oasis is easier than you think. One simple yet effective way to achieve this ambiance and leave your home smelling wonderful is by incorporating eucalyptus leaves above the showerhead. As the steam from your shower rises, it will release the oils from the eucalyptus, subtly filling the air with its refreshing aroma. This natural air freshener will diffuse throughout the bathroom, creating a spa-like atmosphere that’s both calming and invigorating.

Burn Incense.

The allure of incense is often linked to a sense of spirituality, tradition, and serenity. By infusing any room with this aromatic medium, you can effortlessly create a cozy atmosphere that invites relaxation and warmth. The versatility of incense lies in its ability to accommodate various moods and needs, with different scents offering distinct benefits for the mind and body.

Whether seeking tranquility, stimulation, or simply a pleasant ambiance, the diverse range of incense options ensures there’s something to suit your unique requirements.

Light Candles.

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When it comes to creating a welcoming atmosphere at home, candles are an accessible and budget-friendly option. The variety of scents available makes it simple to find one that suits your taste. While it’s unlikely to find a scent that universally pleases everyone, options like lavender and vanilla are sure to evoke feelings of relaxation and coziness.

Use Room Freshener Sprays.

Want to instantly give your home a fresh and inviting aroma. The answer lies in a simple yet effective room refresher spray. These sprays work by releasing a gentle, long-lasting fragrance that can last up to 24 hours. With a wide range of scents available, from apple cinnamon to ocean breeze, you’re sure to find one that suits your taste. But when choosing a room refresher, be sure to opt for one containing plant-derived ingredients like citronella, eucalyptus, lemongrass, and peppermint.

Not only will these sprays leave your home smelling great, but they’ll also possess natural insect-repelling properties – a convenient bonus.

Use Natural Air Freshener Plugs.

An Air Freshener plug is a clever device designed to eliminate unpleasant odors from the air. By simply plugging it into an outlet, you can instantly refresh any room with its lingering fragrance. This innovative product boasts an impressive longevity of up to 60 days or until you choose to unplug it.

Moreover, its versatility allows for placement in various areas around your home, such as under sinks, behind toilets, near pet beds and litter boxes, ensuring that every corner of your house exudes a pleasant aroma.

Bake Something Delicious.

Regardless of personal preferences, there are numerous ways to ensure a pleasant aroma fills the air without relying on artificial fragrances. One effective method is baking, which can be achieved in minimal effort if you enjoy spending time in the kitchen. Freshly baked goods not only leave your home smelling delightful but also yield a delicious reward for your hard work.

Bake Spices.

When it comes to baking spices, a low-temperature oven is often the key to unlocking their full potential. By slow-cooking these aromatic compounds at a gentle heat, you can coax out deeper, more nuanced flavors that will elevate your baked goods from ordinary to extraordinary. The resulting aroma also has the added benefit of filling your home with a warm, inviting scent that’s sure to delight.

Whether you’re working with cumin, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, or another spice of choice, baking at low heat can be a game-changer for the flavor and fragrance of your creations.

Cleaning tips for a great-smelling home:

Whether you’re working with cumin, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, or another spice of choice, baking at low heat can be a game-changer for the flavor and fragrance of your creations.

Add Baking Soda to Your Trashcan.

While baking soda is commonly used in cooking, its uses extend far beyond the kitchen. When combined with vinegar or lemon juice and water, it creates a potent odor-neutralizing solution capable of banishing lingering scents from onions, garlic, and other pungent ingredients. This natural remedy can also be employed to revitalize smelly trash cans – simply sprinkle baking soda at the bottom before adding waste.

As an added bonus, the mixture will react with moisture to form a non-stick paste that adheres to surfaces without causing messy residue. Furthermore, this eco-friendly solution is harmless for children and pets, making it an excellent choice for households with young ones.

Use Vinegar as a Cleaning Agent.

When it comes to keeping your home smelling fresh and clean without relying on harsh chemicals, vinegar is an excellent solution. Not only is it affordable and widely available, but it’s also incredibly versatile. One of the simplest ways to use vinegar as a natural air freshener is to mix it with water and spray it on surfaces like furniture, carpets, and even mattresses. This effective trick can be used to eliminate odors and leave your home smelling pleasant.

Additionally, when combined with baking soda, vinegar makes an excellent cleaning agent for tasks such as scrubbing sinks or toilets. By using this natural combination to clean up after dinner, you can easily remove any lingering kitchen messes and enjoy a fresh, lemony scent throughout your home.

Use Coffee Grounds to Absorb Odors.

When it comes to infusing your home with a pleasant aroma, used coffee grounds can be a surprisingly effective tool. One approach is to place a cup of the grounds in a small bowl and position it near an electrical outlet or similar heat source as the heat wafts through the grounds, it releases the fragrant compounds into the air, subtly yet effectively filling your home with the aroma.

Another option is to incorporate the coffee grounds into potpourri blends for an even more intense scent experience. For those who prefer a more straightforward solution, there are many candles on the market that have been made from coffee beans themselves – providing a cozy and inviting ambiance.

Use Cotton Balls with Essential Oils.

For a home that radiates warmth and freshness without demanding too much effort, consider incorporating a simple yet effective trick: utilizing reusable cotton balls to neutralize lingering odors. By infusing these absorbent wonders with essential oils, tucking them away in drawers, under beds, or in cozy nooks, you can effortlessly create your own natural deodorizer that will leave your space feeling inviting and revitalized.

Quick tips to make your home smell nice:

Simmer Peeled Citrus Fruits.

Transform your living space into a serene oasis by harnessing the invigorating aroma of citrus fruits and essential oils. Start by selecting a few citrus fruits, such as lemons or oranges, and extract their peels. Next, simmer the peels in a pot of water on low heat for approximately 20 minutes. As the mixture heats up, the warm and uplifting fragrance will permeate your home, creating a spa-like ambiance that’s sure to leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

Put Vacuum Beads in Your Vacuum Cleaner.

One effective approach to eliminating unpleasant odors from your home is by incorporating vacuum beads into your cleaning routine. These odorless, non-toxic particles have a remarkable ability to absorb and neutralize unwanted smells within the vacuum cleaner as you clean. Moreover, they possess additional benefits such as reducing static electricity and providing protection against dust mites, making them an all-around useful addition to your cleaning arsenal.

Grind Citrus Peels for the Kitchen Garbage Disposal.

To breathe new life into your kitchen, try an unconventional yet effective hack: grinding citrus peels for your garbage disposal. This simple trick not only eliminates unpleasant odors but also cleans and deodorizes the disposal itself. As a bonus, you’ll be incorporating more vitamin C into your daily diet by consuming leftover fruit, making this technique a win-win for both your kitchen and health.

Microwave a Few Teaspoons of Vanilla Extract.

Are lingering odors plaguing your microwave despite thorough cleaning? One unconventional solution is to microwave a small cup containing 2-3 tablespoons of vanilla extract for 30 seconds. This unusual hack not only eliminates the unwanted scent, but also leaves a pleasant aroma that will likely spark curiosity among friends and family – even if you haven’t been baking.

Deep Clean your Dishwasher Every Two Weeks.

When it comes to maintaining a clean kitchen, dishwashers are often overlooked despite being a crucial part of our daily routine; however, it’s essential to remember that these appliances can harbor bacteria and odors if not properly cleaned regularly. Whether you’ve recently purchased a new dishwasher or have been using the same one for years, cleaning its interior every few months is vital for ensuring your kitchen remains fresh and clean.

To deep clean your dishwasher, you’ll need just two simple ingredients: vinegar and baking soda. Start by filling the appliance with hot water – no soap required. Next, add 1/2 cup of vinegar and one tablespoon of baking soda to the bottom tray before starting a normal cycle. The steam generated from the hot water will help loosen tough stains, allowing them to rinse away effortlessly during the wash cycle.

Once the cycle is complete, take a moment to dry off any excess moisture that may have accumulated on top after opening. With these simple steps, you’ll be able to keep your dishwayer – and kitchen – in great shape.

Tend to Your Smelly Shoes.

To keep your home smelling sweet and your shoes fresh, consider implementing a few simple strategies. When you’re not wearing smelly shoes, stash a pair of outdoor-only shoes by the door. This will minimize the time your other shoes spend lingering in the air, reducing the likelihood of unpleasant odors permeating your space. Another effective approach is to use baking soda to absorb any lingering smells. Simply sprinkle a small amount inside or outside the shoes before storing them overnight.

Alternatively, you can also try spraying fabric fresheners into the interior lining of your shoes for an added layer of freshness. And don’t forget to keep shoe-cleaning wipes on hand for quick cleanups and odor-neutralizing touch-ups.

Use Linen Sprays.

Indulge your senses with the refreshing aroma of a crisp linen closet by harnessing the power of homemade linen spray. This simple yet effective solution enables you to effortlessly infuse your home with a pleasant fragrance that can be applied anywhere – from furniture and carpets to clothing and the air itself.

Use an Oil Burner.

One effective way to keep your home smelling its best is by utilizing an oil burner, which uses candles or scented oils to release a pleasant aroma throughout the space. This compact device offers several advantages: it leaves your home with a fresh, inviting scent, while also helping to alleviate sinus issues and promote relaxation.

Buy Fancy Laundry Detergents.

For a fresher home environment, consider the impact of scented towels and bedroom linens. While everyday laundry detergents effectively keep your fabrics clean, having a specialized, fragranced detergent on hand can elevate the overall ambiance of your space. For those who prioritize pleasant aromas, fancy laundry detergents offer an array of scents that will leave your clothes smelling sublime.

Although they may come at a slightly higher cost, these premium products provide a unique experience for those who value the sensory pleasure of wearing freshly laundered garments with a distinct fragrance.

Use a Carpet Deodorizer.

Eliminating unpleasant odors from carpets, upholstery, and drapes has never been easier. A simple yet effective solution lies in the form of carpet deodorizers. Not only do they successfully eliminate pungent smells, but they also offer great value for money. With prices starting as low as $1 per bottle, these versatile products provide a cost-effective way to keep your home smelling fresh and clean.

Wash Hardwood Floors Regularly.

Whether odors linger due to furry friends or kitchen mishaps, there are effective ways to eliminate unpleasant aromas. One often overlooked solution is to give your hardwood floors a thorough cleaning. For pet owners, this task is crucial as shedding and accidents can leave behind stubborn smells. To tackle the job, mix one cup of vinegar with five cups of water in a bucket, then add a few drops of dish soap.

This eco-friendly formula will effectively clean your wood floors without leaving harsh chemical residues. After cleaning, allow the floors to dry completely before resuming normal activities.

Polish Hardwood Floors.

Maintaining wood furniture is crucial for several reasons. Not only does it eliminate unpleasant odors and leave a fresh scent in their place, but it also enhances the appearance of the piece by removing dust and restoring its natural sheen. Moreover, polishing wood furniture serves as a protective measure against water damage, preventing moisture from seeping into the surface and causing harm.

To make this task a breeze, simply grab some Murphy Oil Soap and use a damp rag or cotton cloth to wipe down the surfaces. If you struggle to remember when it’s time for a polish, consider setting an alarm on your phone to remind you when the floors are due for a good shine next month.

Spray Perfume on a Light Bulb.

When it comes to making your home smell inviting, a clever hack is to utilize a light bulb as a fragrance diffuser. All you need is a standard lightbulb and some perfume. To avoid damaging the bulb, limit yourself to a single spray, ensuring a pleasant aroma without compromising the bulb’s integrity. It’s crucial to exercise caution when using this method, as excessive perfume can lead to breakage or pose safety risks.

Despite these precautions, this simple trick can significantly enhance your home’s ambiance and positively impact the mood of those who enter. The best part: This hack is entirely free (assuming you already have the perfume) and requires minimal storage space, making it a versatile solution for any setting.

Use Dried Flowers and Herbs.

Elevate the ambiance of your home by incorporating dried flowers and herbs into your décor. Not only do they release a delightful aroma, but they also foster a serene atmosphere that can be savored for hours on end. The versatility of these natural elements is another significant advantage – they can be employed in various ways to suit your personal preferences.

For instance, you could combine a few spritzes of your preferred perfume with the dried flowers or herbs and position them near an open window or above your stove while cooking. Alternatively, you can fill small pouches with these dried blooms or fresh herbs and place them in your drawers or closets to refresh their contents or discreetly tuck them away for later use.

More Fresh Smelling Home Tips:

Keep Baking Soda in Your Fridge.

To eliminate unpleasant odors from your fridge, consider a simple yet effective solution: incorporating baking soda into your routine. This natural odor absorber can be placed on a shelf, where it will work its magic by neutralizing pungent smells and leaving your food with a fresh, appetizing aroma. What’s more, this method is not only easy to implement but also budget-friendly – making it an accessible solution for anyone looking to keep their fridge smelling sweet.

Place Vinegar Under the Kitchen Sink.

When it comes to eliminating unpleasant odors in the home, many people are unaware of a simple yet effective trick: Placing a jar of vinegar in areas where smells tend to linger can have a remarkable impact on neutralizing those pesky aromas. Not only is this hack an easy one to implement, but it’s also a natural and non-toxic way to keep your home smelling fresh and clean.

Clean with Citrus Cleaning Sprays.

When it comes to keeping your kitchen and bathroom surfaces sparkling clean, citrus-based cleaning sprays are a great go-to solution. Not only do they get the job done effectively, but they also leave a refreshing citrusy aroma that’s hard to resist. To make sure you’re always prepared, consider keeping a spray bottle handy in a convenient location – this way, it’ll be ready and waiting whenever you need a quick clean.

Disinfect the Washer Machine.

Over time, washing machines can develop a musty or mildewy smell that may also transfer to the clothes being washed. Additionally, mold and mildew growth can be accelerated by poor ventilation in the machine. To minimize these issues, it’s recommended to keep the washer door open when not in use, allowing for better airflow and reducing the likelihood of moisture accumulation.

Furthermore, if you notice an unpleasant odor emanating from your washing machine, simply rinsing the interior with water followed by a vinegar-based detergent cycle can often resolve the issue promptly.

Shampoo your carpets.

To give your home a pleasant aroma, consider shampooing your carpets. If it’s been a while since you’ve done so, now is the perfect opportunity. For those seeking guidance on the best carpet shampoo to use, RUG Doctor Deep Carpet Cleaner is an effective and budget-friendly option. Before applying the cleaner, thoroughly vacuum the carpet to remove as much dirt and dust as possible. It’s highly recommended that you rent a machine from your local hardware store to complete this task effectively.

Replace old stained & stale carpet.

When it comes to maintaining a fresh and clean-smelling home, replacing outdated carpeting is a must. If the current flooring has seen better days, emits unpleasant odors, or still appears dirty after cleaning, it’s time for an update. By swapping out old carpeting with new, you’ll not only boost your home’s aesthetic appeal but also eliminate lingering smells and simplify the cleaning process.

Additionally, opting for alternative flooring materials like hardwood, tile, linoleum, or laminate can further minimize unpleasant odors. While this may require a greater upfront investment, the long-term benefits will be well worth the cost.

Buy Fresh flowers.

Indulge in the calming effects of scent therapy by incorporating fresh flowers into your daily routine. Strategically place bouquets throughout your home, such as on the dining room table, bathroom counter, or nightstand, to release their soothing aroma and promote a sense of serenity. As the sweet fragrance fills the air, it’s sure to lift your spirits and transport you to a peaceful state, reminiscent of the vibrant atmosphere of spring’s first bloom.

Make Air Freshener Jars.

A simple yet effective way to keep your home smelling great is by using small mason jars as natural air fresheners. By filling a jar with 1/2 cup of baking soda and adding four to six drops of essential oil, you can create a compact and chemical-free solution for eliminating odors. This DIY approach not only eliminates harsh chemicals often found in store-bought products but also allows you to customize the scent to your liking.

Simply seal the jar and place it anywhere you want to freshen up the air – whether it’s a cozy living room or a welcoming entryway.

No-shoes-in-the-house should be a policy!

When it comes to keeping your home clean and odor-free, one often-overlooked culprit is footwear. Shoes have a knack for tracking dirt onto floors, which can quickly lead to unpleasant odors if not addressed regularly. To maintain a fresh and tidy living space, consider making shoe removal a standard practice in your home – not only will this help keep floors clean, but it’ll also encourage house guests to adopt the same habit, ensuring a more pleasant atmosphere for everyone.

Clean/change your Air Conditioner filter.

Staying healthy relies heavily on breathing in fresh air, but have you ever stopped to think about the air quality within your own home? It’s not uncommon for indoor spaces to take on a stale aroma, which can be attributed to the buildup of impurities and debris within appliances like air conditioners. A simple solution is to replace the air conditioner filter regularly, taking it as an opportunity to infuse your home’s air with natural freshness.

By adding a few drops of essential oils to the new filter, you’ll not only cool down your space but also release a subtle yet refreshing scent that permeates every corner.

Change old Furnace Filters.

Many homeowners believe that cranking up the heat will automatically eliminate any unpleasant odors in their homes. However, this is a misconception. The real solution lies in replacing old furnace filters with new ones. As a filter ages, it becomes more effective at capturing dirt particles and absorbing odors from the air. Unfortunately, when heated, these trapped smells are released back into your home, making the issue worse.

To effectively eliminate unwanted odors, it’s essential to replace worn-out furnace filters with high-quality alternatives. This simple step can make a significant difference in the overall air quality of your home.

Add Vanilla Extract to Paint while painting.

When most people think of vanilla extract, they associate it with baking and sweet treats. However, this versatile ingredient has a surprising use beyond the kitchen – it can be used to improve the scent of paint. If your paint is emitting a musty or stale smell that’s getting on your nerves, adding a small amount of vanilla extract might just do the trick. Just keep in mind that while it will eliminate the unpleasant odor, it may also subtly alter the color of the paint.

As with any addition, be mindful of the quantity to avoid over-embellishing the finish.

BONUS… What is the best way to make your home smell good?

To create a home that smells inviting, it’s essential to first understand your personal preferences when it comes to fragrances. What types of scents do you enjoy? Do you prefer fresh and citrusy or warm and spicy? Knowing what you like is crucial in ensuring that the fragrance you choose is one that you’ll love. A pleasant-smelling home is not just about masking odors, but also about creating a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel cozy and relaxed after a long day.

To achieve this, you can experiment with different methods, such as using essential oils, potpourri, or even baking cookies to fill your home with a delicious aroma. The key is to find what works for you and your unique preferences. With a little creativity and experimentation, you can turn your house into a haven that smells amazing every time you walk in the door.

For more home cleaning inspiration, check out:

When it comes to keeping your home not only spotless but also fragrant, there are numerous strategies you can employ: From using essential oils to incorporating household items into your cleaning routine, the possibilities are endless.

Here’s 12 effective ways to give your home a thorough cleaning while leaving it smelling fresh and clean: Implement natural air purifiers like lavender or lemon; Utilize baking soda as an all-purpose cleaner; Make use of activated charcoal to absorb odors; Employ white vinegar as a disinfectant; Use tea tree oil to eliminate any unpleasant smells; Incorquadate cypress essential oil for its deodorizing properties; Harness the power of citrus fruits by using their peels to create a homemade air freshener; Combine borax and baking soda to create a natural carpet cleaner; Utilize coffee grounds as a natural odor absorber; Employ catnip or mint leaves to repel insects and leave your home smelling fresh; Use clay-based face masks on surfaces to absorb impurities; Incorporate the natural antibacterial properties of eucalyptus oil into your cleaning routine.

By incorporating these 12 simple yet effective methods, you’ll be able to maintain a clean and inviting home with ease.