Learn how to make your own natural essential oil air freshener to make your home smell fresh without artificial fragrances or harsh chemicals.
Making a non-toxic DIY air freshener spray with essential oils allows you to avoid many of the synthetic ingredients commonly found in commercial room sprays. This simple recipe uses a solvent to carry the scent, clean water, and your favorite essential oil blend for a safer, pleasant-smelling home.
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What you need for this essential oil air freshener
Ingredients
- Witch hazel – Acts as a solvent to help the essential oils disperse through the water and evaporate into the air without leaving a residue.
- Distilled or filtered water – Using distilled water helps the spray stay fresher longer than tap water.
- Essential oils – Choose your favorite fragrances. Layering top, middle, and base notes will produce a more balanced and longer-lasting scent.
Tools
- Small glass spray bottle (4 ounce recommended)
- Small funnel (optional, for easy pouring)
- Measuring spoon or small cup
How to make the essential oil air freshener
Combine the ingredients – Add about 1 tablespoon witch hazel into an empty 4 ounce spray bottle. Add roughly 30 drops total of your chosen essential oil blend.
Mix – Replace the spray top and shake well to combine the witch hazel and oils.
Add water – Fill the bottle the rest of the way with distilled or filtered water. Replace the lid and shake again.
Note – Essential oils and water will naturally separate, so shake the bottle before each use to redistribute the oils and get an even spray.
Tips for success
To use – Mist lightly around the room, on curtains, or on linens (spot test fabrics first). Use as needed to neutralize odors or refresh a space.
Storage – Keep the spray away from direct sunlight and heat. Stored in a cool, dark place in a glass bottle, it will last for several months—generally up to 6 months.
Substitutes – If you don’t have witch hazel, rubbing alcohol or plain vodka can be used as the solvent in the same amount.
Safety – Essential oils are concentrated; avoid contact with eyes and keep out of reach of children and pets. If you have allergies, respiratory issues, or sensitivities, test a small amount first or consult a healthcare professional.
Why make your own air freshener?
Made with natural ingredients
Many commercial air fresheners contain synthetic fragrances and chemicals that can irritate the respiratory system or cause allergic reactions. Using essential oils offers a natural alternative that still provides pleasant aroma without those synthetic additives.
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts. When used responsibly, they offer pleasant scents and can contribute to a calming or uplifting atmosphere.
Easy to make
This DIY air freshener takes only a few minutes and requires just a few ingredients. Combine, top with water, and shake—no complicated steps or special equipment.
Cost effective
Making your own air freshener is inexpensive. Once you have a bottle of essential oils and a small spray bottle, each refill costs only cents worth of ingredients.
Pleasant, natural scent
Homemade air fresheners won’t be as overpowering as many store-bought sprays, and the scent typically dissipates faster—but many people prefer the lighter, natural aroma over strong chemical fragrances.
10 essential oil blends for room spray (about 30 drops total)
Try these favorite blends for a variety of moods and seasons. Each recipe is for one 4 ounce spray bottle; combine the drops listed, then add 1 tablespoon witch hazel and fill with distilled water.
1. Spring Has Sprung
- 10 drops sweet orange
- 15 drops lemon
- 5 drops peppermint
2. Spring Rain
- 15 drops bergamot
- 10 drops cedarwood
- 5 drops clove
3. Deodorizing
- 15 drops lemon
- 5 drops tea tree
- 10 drops eucalyptus
4. Clean Sheets
- 10 drops lavender
- 10 drops rosemary
- 10 drops lemon
5. Summer Citrus
- 5 drops grapefruit
- 5 drops lemon
- 5 drops lime
- 5 drops orange
6. Beachy Vibes
- 10 drops lime
- 10 drops vanilla
- 10 drops sandalwood
7. Fall Leaves
- 15 drops orange
- 5 drops cinnamon
- 10 drops cedarwood
8. Jolly Holiday
- 10 drops orange
- 10 drops cinnamon
- 10 drops clove
9. Citrus Dream
- 10 drops lemon
- 10 drops orange
- 10 drops grapefruit
10. In the Kitchen
- 10 drops rosemary
- 10 drops clove
- 10 drops lemon
More homemade cleaners and recipes
If you enjoy making your own products, consider adding other DIY cleaners to your routine: multi-purpose sprays, hardwood floor cleaner, laundry stain remover, toilet bowl cleaner tablets, and leather cleaner are all easy to make at home.
I hope you enjoy this DIY essential oil air freshener. If you try it, please come back and leave a comment and rating to share how it worked for you!
Pin these steps to try later. Tag @athomeontheprairie on Instagram to share what you’ve made!