A home filled with kids often comes with a range of smells—some pleasant, others not so much. While it's natural for a busy household to have its own unique scent, there are budget-friendly ways to ensure your home always smells fresh and inviting. Here are some tips to keep your living space smelling good without breaking the bank.
1. Use Natural Air Fresheners
Natural air fresheners are an inexpensive and safe way to keep your home smelling fresh. Here are a few options:
Essential Oils: Use a few drops of essential oils like lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus in a spray bottle filled with water. Spray this around the house for a quick refresh.
Simmer Pots: Boil a pot of water with slices of citrus fruits, herbs, and spices like cinnamon or cloves. Let it simmer on the stove, and the steam will fill your home with a pleasant aroma.
Baking Soda: Place small bowls of baking soda around the house, especially in areas like the bathroom or near the trash can. Baking soda naturally absorbs odors.
2. DIY Scented Sachets
Scented sachets are easy to make and can be placed in closets, drawers, or under pillows to keep things smelling fresh. Simply fill small fabric bags with dried herbs like lavender, rosemary, or mint. Add a few drops of essential oil for an extra boost. These sachets are not only effective but also fun to make with kids.
3. Houseplants for Fresh Air
Certain houseplants are great for purifying the air and adding a natural scent to your home. Plants like jasmine, gardenia, and spider plants help filter the air and add a fresh, clean smell. Plus, they’re budget-friendly and add a touch of greenery to your home.
4. Homemade Cleaning Solutions
Instead of using store-bought cleaners filled with chemicals, try making your own cleaning solutions. Vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice are great for cleaning surfaces and neutralizing odors. Mix vinegar with water and a few drops of essential oil for an all-purpose cleaner that’s safe to use around kids.
5. Regular Ventilation
Keeping your home well-ventilated is one of the simplest ways to ensure it smells good. Open windows daily to let fresh air in and stale air out. Even in winter, a few minutes of fresh air can make a big difference.
6. Keep a Clean Home
Regular cleaning goes a long way in keeping your home smelling good. Here are some kid-friendly tips:
Laundry: Wash bedding, curtains, and throw blankets regularly. These items can trap odors, especially in kids’ rooms.
Trash: Empty trash bins frequently and clean them with a vinegar solution to prevent lingering smells.
Carpets and Rugs: Sprinkle baking soda on carpets and rugs, let it sit for a few minutes, and then vacuum. Baking soda absorbs odors and leaves your carpets smelling fresh.
7. Make Your Own Candles
Making candles at home can be a fun activity to do with kids and a great way to keep your home smelling good. All you need is some wax, essential oils, and a wick. Customize the scent with your favorite essential oils and enjoy a cozy, fragrant atmosphere.
8. Cook with Aromatic Ingredients
Cooking with aromatic ingredients like garlic, onions, and herbs can naturally fill your home with delicious smells. Plus, it's a budget-friendly way to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Just be sure to ventilate afterward to avoid lingering cooking smells.
9. Keep Pets Groomed
If you have pets, regular grooming is essential to keep your home smelling fresh. Brush your pets often and bathe them regularly to reduce pet odors. Additionally, wash their bedding frequently.
