Spring is in the air, and it’s the perfect time to freshen up your home. So, while it’s a perfect time to begin my spring cleaning, it’s also the perfect time to add one of my favorite spring scents. Citrus!  I love the fresh scent of citrus, and a great way to add the scent to my own home this time of year is with a Simmer Pot recipe. This natural way to fragrance your home is easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for those with allergies or sensitivities. So, let’s make a Citrus simmer pot for Spring!

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Gather Your Simmer Pot Ingredients:

The great thing about creating a simmer pot is all about using what you love! I am using what I had on hand today. A few fresh lemons, limes, vanilla, and some fresh rosemary sprigs. I like using seasonal ingredients (usually cheaper) and fresh herbs whenever possible, as I feel they are more fragrant when simmering. Here are some other basic ingredients to get you started, but feel free to experiment and find your perfect fragrance blend:

• Citrus Fruits: Orange slices, grapefruits, lemons, limes, or even a mix!
• Fresh Herbs: Rosemary, thyme, mint, or basil add a lovely touch. Dried herbs will work in a pinch!
• Essential Oils: Anything citrusy (this is a favorite) is fresh and fun.
• Water: The base that carries the fragrance throughout your home.

Pro Tip: Simmer Pots are sometimes called Stovetop Potpourri. The terms are interchangeable.

Assemble Your Simmer Pot:

• Find your pot: A small saucepan, mini crock pot, or Dutch oven works great. I am using a favorite glass kettle (stove-safe).
• Layer your ingredients: Add citrus slices, herbs, and spices to the pot. You could also use leftover fruit peels.
• Fill it up: Cover the ingredients with enough water to fill a quarter of your pot.
• Gently simmer: Heat the pot to a low simmer, letting the wonderful citrus smell fill your home.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the water level and add more as needed to prevent scorching.

The Benefits of Simmer Pots:

Simmer pots offer a safe and natural alternative to artificial air fresheners. Here are some reasons to love them:

I often use simmer pots in our short-term rental properties, and I can tell you they can be a lifesaver! If a guest has cooked anything that leaves a strong smell (I’m looking at you, bacon), they freshen the air quickly and create a welcoming atmosphere for guests while avoiding any potential issues with allergies to artificial fragrance or strong scents.

• Natural Fragrance: A more natural way to fill your home with the fresh, uplifting scents of citrus and herbs.
• Allergy-Friendly: Unlike candles or plug-in air fresheners (which may contain unknown ingredients), simmer pots are gentle and avoid harsh chemicals.
• Mood Booster: Certain scents, like citrus and rosemary, are known to have uplifting and energizing properties.
• Humidity Boost: Especially in drier climates, simmer pots can add a touch of moisture to the air.

Explore Seasonal Simmer Pot Combinations:

I love the seasonal scent of the Christmas Stovetop Potpourri that I made last year. The beauty of simmer pots is their versatility! Here are some other combinations to keep your home fragrant throughout the year:

• Summer: Swap citrus for fresh berries and stone fruits like peaches or plums. Add the calming scent of lavender sprig. 
• Fall: Embrace the cozy vibes with apples, pears, and cinnamon sticks.
• Winter: Spruce things up with cranberries, rosemary, star anise, and a hint of vanilla extract.

I love that I have found an inexpensive way to make my entire home smell fresh with the natural goodness of a Citrus Simmer Pot for Spring! Are you ready to give one a try? Do you have a favorite recipe? Let me know in the comments below.

Until next time,

-Libbie

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