Pumpkin spice, chai, orange, nutmeg and clove — that’s how fall should smell. Let’s be honest: 2020 has had its challenges, but your home doesn’t have to add to them. A cozy, welcoming scent is within reach with a few practical steps.
There are many ways to create a warm, autumnal atmosphere. Right now in Seattle, when I open a window I mostly smell smoke — not a cozy campfire, but acrid, smoky air from wildfires. That outside air brings in more than just smoke; pesticides, metals, microplastics and other pollutants can settle into our homes. Recent studies have even detected toxins in household dust. When we inhale these contaminants, they can affect our health.
Our living spaces and our bodies are closely connected. Tending to your home helps care for your well-being. Along with decorating to create comfort and uplift, start with a clean, healthy environment. Rather than reaching for quick fixes like commercial aerosols or heavily scented products that can contain harmful chemicals, begin with basic housekeeping to prepare your home for natural, pleasant autumn scents.
Seven steps to make your home smell cozy and inviting
1. Take out the trash.
Before introducing any pleasant scents, empty trash, recycling and compost bins so lingering odors are gone at the source.
2. Clear out old food from the fridge.
Spoiled leftovers will compete with any cozy scents you introduce. Remove anything past its prime and wipe down shelves to eliminate odors.
3. Dust and vacuum thoroughly.
Dust holds odors and can negatively impact indoor air quality. A thorough vacuum—ideally with a HEPA filter—removes dust from rugs and upholstery and helps your home smell fresher. Clean under furniture, along baseboards and in corners where dust accumulates.
4. Wash musty laundry promptly.
Letting dirty laundry sit breeds stale smells. Try doing a small load each day to stay ahead of odors and keep linens smelling fresh.
5. Avoid products labeled only as “fragrance.”
Many scented candles, potpourri and household items use synthetic fragrances that can contain harmful chemicals. While they may smell like fall, they can compromise indoor air quality. Choosing fragrance-free or naturally scented options is a healthier approach.
6. Use cleaners with simple, transparent ingredients.
Skip harsh chemical cleaners. Opt for gentle, toxin-free cleaning solutions made from clear, simple ingredients. Many natural cleaners can be customized with a few drops of essential oils to add a pleasant, seasonal scent without releasing volatile synthetic compounds.
If you use essential oils or toxin-free cleaners, test small amounts first and follow safe usage guidelines.
7. Scent your clean home naturally.
Once your home is clean, introduce natural scents: simmer a pot of orange slices with cinnamon and clove, diffuse an autumn essential oil blend, spritz a homemade room spray on linens, or bake seasonal treats. These simple, natural methods fill your home with comforting fall aromas you can breathe easy about.
Over the coming weeks I’ll share simple cleaning and scent recipes to help your home feel clean, cozy and inviting for the season—stay tuned.
More Fall Nesting posts to explore:
How to Get Inspired and Find Your Decor Style
Tips to Decorate Your Fall Living Room
Cozy Fall Throw Blankets
My Favorite Fall Decor in My Cozy Fall Shop
14 Ideas for a Cozy Fall Kitchen
Make Your Home the Coziest It Can Be (3 Take Away Tips)
Fall Puttering Playlist
Cozy Self-Care Corner Must-Haves
Four Essential Home Making Practices for Every Season
Fall Nesting and Doormats
How to Dwell Well This Fall
How to Decorate with Faux Fall Foliage
Click here for inspiration from previous year’s Fall Nesting Series!
