Easy Homemade Simmering Potpourri Recipe

Last Updated on October 21, 2023 by Ellen Christian

Looking for an easy homemade potpourri recipe? Learn how to make stove potpourri with dried orange peel and make your house smell good naturally.

Easy Homemade Potpourri

I love being able to scent my home without using chemicals. Have you had a chance to try this cranberry stovetop potpourri yet? It has wonderful fall scents.

Or, you might want to learn how to freshen indoor air naturally with this coffee tealight. Who can resist the smell of coffee?

The past few mornings when I’ve woken up, I’ve needed to put on a light sweater. We still have a little bit of time before winter arrives, but I know it won’t be that long. Instead of being able to open the windows to freshen a room, I’ll need to use simmering potpourri instead.  

What can I simmer on my stove for smell?

I made this easy homemade potpourri with oranges a few years ago as a Christmas gift, and it was a big hit. You can change up this recipe based on what you have in the cupboard or what’s on sale.

Since you are only using it to scent the room, you don’t need to buy organic but please don’t buy things with artificial scents, or you’ll be breathing in those chemicals.

I packaged my homemade dried potpourri in a Mason and tied it with a beautiful ribbon. If you’re not giving yours as a gift, you can store it in any tightly covered jar or tin to keep the fragrance from disappearing.

What can I simmer to make my home smell good?

These essential oils for odor elimination work quite well. Or, you might want to make a pumpkin spice essential oil blend.

• Cloves

• Cinnamon Sticks

• Dried orange peels

• Dried cranberries

• Star anise

• Tiny pinecones (for appearance, not scent) optional

• Mason jar or another type

• Twine or ribbon

Can I use fresh orange peel in this simmering potpourri?

Yes. I started with dried orange peel, but you can use fresh orange peel instead if you want. You may also want to try this homemade garland. It’s a gorgeous Christmas decoration that is very simple to make.

 

How do you make homemade simmering potpourri?

There are no real directions for this easy homemade simmering potpourri recipe. I place a few of each into the jar until the jar is full.

You can make layers or make a big batch in a bowl, stir it up and then divide it among jars. Then put the top on the jar and tie it with twine or ribbon if you’re giving it as a gift.

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Take about a tablespoon or two of the mix, being sure to get a bit of each item, and place it in a small pot with a few cups of water. Put the pot on the stove and simmer on a very low heat to release the scent.

Always watch the pot and add more water as needed.

How long does simmering potpourri last?

Simmering potpourri can add a delightful aroma to your home, but its scent doesn’t last indefinitely. Typically, it retains its fragrance for about 4 to 6 hours, but it might vary based on the quality and type of ingredients used. To maintain a fresh scent, it’s best to replace or replenish the potpourri as necessary.

Favorite simmer pot recipes

1. Citrus Burst Simmer Pot Recipe: Fill your home with a burst of freshness. You’ll need: 2 sliced lemons, 2 sliced limes, a handful of rosemary sprigs, and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract.
2. Apple and Cinnamon Simmer Pot Recipe: A heartwarming blend of autumn favorites. Gather these ingredients: 2 sliced apples, 3 cinnamon sticks, and a dash of whole cloves.
3. Minty Fresh Simmer Pot Recipe: A bright and invigorating scent. Prepare: a handful of fresh mint leaves, 2 sliced limes, and a teaspoon of vanilla extract.
4. Cozy Winter Simmer Pot Recipe: An inviting aroma perfect for cold winter days. You’ll need: 2 sliced oranges, 4 cinnamon sticks, a handful of cranberries, and a sprinkle of nutmeg.