How to Add Citrus Scents to Your Home

Fill your slow cooker 2/3 full with water, and drop in sliced lemons, limes, and oranges along with a few drops of vanilla. Let the mix simmer on low to fill your home with a bright scent that won’t break the bank. You can simmer all day and then just throw out the leftovers and wash the interior of the pot.

Don’t have a slow cooker? You can easily simmer up lovely citrus scents on your stovetop. Fill a pot about 2/3 of the way to the top with water. While starting a slow simmer, add sliced oranges, lemons and limes (any combination you like) and a few splashes of vanilla or a sprig of fresh cilantro. Let simmer until the water evaporates. Enjoy!

Craving that tropical smell? If you have a wax cube warmer, you can make your own scented wax cubes with leftover wax from used cubes and candle ends (or you can buy unscented wax). Warm gently in the microwave and pour the liquid into an old ice cube tray, then add two or three drops of citrus essential oil to each cube. Refrigerate overnight and the cubes will be ready for use in your warmer the next day.

If you’re a citrus fan, you’re in luck: You can find many varieties of candles with pleasant citrus scents. Look for mixes with coconut and cilantro in warmer months and cinnamon, nutmeg and spice during the fall and winter. You can make your own decorative holder by adding Washi tape or decorative ribbon to a simple glass, empty baby food jar, or other fireproof vessel.