A Beginner's Guide To Using Aroma Oils

Fragrance oils, also known as burning or perfume oils, are manufactured for their pleasant scents and can be used in crafting, home scenting, and perfumes. They should not be confused with essential oils, which are natural plant extracts. Fragrance oils can be used to create your own air freshener by adding a few drops to a spray bottle with water, or they can be used in an oil burner to scent a room. They can also be added to unscented shampoo or lotion to lend their scent.

Make your own air freshener

Making your own air freshener is a great way to make your home smell wonderful without the harmful chemicals found in store-bought fresheners. Here are some simple steps to make your own natural air freshener:

Ingredients

• Essential oils of your choice (e.g. lavender, eucalyptus, chamomile, and lemon)
• Water (preferably distilled or purified)
• Alcohol (e.g. vodka, or unscented witch hazel)
• Baking soda (optional)
• Dried flowers, herbs, and spices (optional)

Method

• Combine 15-20 drops of your chosen essential oils with 1 fluid ounce (30 mL) of alcohol in a glass spray bottle.
• Add 2 cups (470 mL) of water and shake the bottle until all the ingredients are mixed.
• Spritz the air freshener around your home whenever you need a burst of fragrance.

Customization Ideas

You can customize your air freshener by experimenting with different essential oils and adding other natural ingredients. Here are some ideas:

• For a calming scent, try lavender, chamomile, and vanilla.
• For an energizing scent, combine sweet orange, grapefruit, and lemon.
• For a holiday-inspired scent, mix peppermint, orange, rosemary, and cinnamon.
• For a woodsy, nature-inspired scent, use cedarwood, balsam fir, pine, cinnamon, and clove.
• To create a romantic and refreshing scent, mix rose and orange essential oils with baking soda.
• For a floral and elegant scent, add dried flowers, such as lavender or rose petals, to your air freshener spray.
• To make a stovetop potpourri, simmer a combination of spices, herbs, and citrus fruits (e.g. cut-up oranges, cinnamon sticks, and apples) in a pot of water on your stove.

Use an oil burner

Using an oil burner is a great way to vaporise essential oils and fill your room with a clean, smokeless scent. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use an oil burner:

Step 1: Prepare the Oil Burner

Place your oil burner on a heat-resistant surface to protect the surface underneath. Oil burners can get very hot, so it is important to take this precaution. Ensure there are no flammable items nearby, and keep the burner out of reach of children and pets.

Step 2: Fill the Bowl

Fill the bowl at the top of the burner with water. Do not fill it to the brim, leaving a little space at the top. Then, add a few drops of your chosen essential oil to the water. You can use a single oil or create your own blend by mixing different oils. Remember, a little goes a long way, and you can always add more drops if needed.

Step 3: Light a Candle

Place a tea light candle underneath the bowl and light it. The heat from the candle will cause the water and oil mixture to evaporate as steam, filling the room with the aroma of the essential oils.

Step 4: Enjoy the Aroma

The scent of the essential oils will soon start to fill the room. You can enjoy the fragrance and any therapeutic benefits the oils may provide. However, it is recommended to only burn the oils for 30 to 60 minutes at a time to avoid the scent becoming too overwhelming.

Step 5: Safety Precautions

Never leave a lit candle unattended, and always keep it out of reach of children and pets. Ensure the bowl does not completely dry out, as this can create a burnt aroma and smoke. Always allow the burner to cool down before handling or cleaning it.

Make your own carpet cleaner

Aromatherapy is a popular way to relax and unwind, and essential oils are often used in this practice. However, it is important to note that essential oils are highly concentrated and should be diluted before being applied to the skin or inhaled directly.

Now, here's how you can make your own carpet cleaner:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 gallon of hot water
• White vinegar
• Salt (optional)
• 5-15 drops of essential oil (adjust the amount according to your preference)

Recommended essential oils:

• Lavender: Known for its calming aroma and antibacterial properties.
• Lemon: Uplifting and fresh, with grease-cutting properties.
• Peppermint: Refreshing and antiseptic, effective against dust mites.
• Eucalyptus: Helps relieve respiratory issues and has strong cleaning power.
• Rosemary: Improves air quality by repelling common allergens and has a woodsy aroma.
• Cinnamon: Provides a warm, comforting scent with antibacterial and antifungal properties.
• Orange: Sweet and refreshing, excellent for stain and odour removal.
• Thyme: Contains strong antibacterial properties.
• Clove: Known for its antimicrobial and antifungal qualities, perfect for deep cleaning.

Instructions:

• Combine the hot water, vinegar, and essential oils in a large bowl or pitcher, stirring until well combined.
• Before cleaning, ensure that your carpet is thoroughly vacuumed.
• Fill the machine reservoir with your homemade solution.
• Test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area of the carpet. Wait at least 24 hours to ensure it doesn't discolour or damage your carpet.
• Run the machine over your entire carpet, paying extra attention to stains or spots.
• Allow at least 24 hours for the carpet to dry completely.
• For storage, transfer the solution to an airtight container like a spray bottle or jug and keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

This natural, eco-friendly, and cost-effective solution will leave your carpets clean and fresh while avoiding the harsh chemicals found in some commercial cleaners.

Cover foot odour

Covering Foot Odour with Aroma Oil

Foot odour is a common problem, often caused by a combination of sweat and bacteria. Luckily, essential oils can be used to combat this issue and leave your feet smelling fresh.

Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil is one of the most popular choices for treating foot odour. It has a refreshing scent that helps mask unpleasant odours, and its anti-bacterial and antifungal properties reduce the odour caused by bacteria and fungi. To use, simply add a few drops of peppermint oil to a basin of warm water and soak your feet for 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, mix a few drops of the oil with a carrier oil and massage it into your feet.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is another must-have for treating foot odour. It is a natural antiseptic with powerful anti-fungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. Its main active ingredient, terpinen-4-ol, is highly effective in killing the bacteria and fungi that cause foot odour. To use, add a few drops to a foot bath or mix with a carrier oil and apply directly to the feet.

Lemongrass Oil

Lemongrass essential oil is a great natural way to combat foot odour. It has a distinct, fresh, lemon-like scent that helps mask unpleasant odours. Additionally, lemongrass oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can fight the bacteria and fungi that contribute to foot odour. To use, add a few drops to a foot soak or mix with a carrier oil and massage into the feet.

Lavender Oil

Lavender oil is well-known for its calming and therapeutic properties, and it is also effective in treating foot odour. Its natural antibacterial and antifungal properties assist in killing the bacteria and fungi that cause bad odour. Plus, its pleasant, soothing scent helps disguise any unpleasant smells. To use, add a few drops of lavender oil to a bowl of warm water and soak your feet for 15-20 minutes.

Other Tips to Reduce Foot Odour

In addition to using essential oils, there are some other things you can do to reduce foot odour:

• Wash your feet daily with soap and water, especially if you have a chronic problem.
• Keep your toenails short to help prevent bacterial and fungal infections.
• Wear socks made from natural fibres such as cotton or wool, as nylon socks can make your feet sweat more.
• Alternate your shoes and choose footwear with good breathability.
• Wash your socks inside out to ensure that the detergent removes all the loose flakes of skin.
• Try using a zinc/castor oil-based cream or foot powder to help control moisture and eliminate odour.

Make your own dryer sheets

Making your own dryer sheets is an easy and affordable way to scent your laundry and avoid the use of harsh chemicals found in commercial dryer sheets. The process involves using essential oils and other natural ingredients to create a pleasant fragrance that will linger on your clothes. Here's a step-by-step guide to making your own dryer sheets:

Materials and Ingredients:

You will need the following items to make your own dryer sheets:

• Absorbent fabric: Old towels, washcloths, t-shirts, or any other absorbent cloth can be cut into squares. The size can vary, but around 4 to 6 inches is a good range.
• Essential oils: Choose your favourite essential oils, such as lavender, lemon, orange, pine, or chamomile.
• Vinegar: White vinegar works best and helps to soften the clothes.
• Container: A glass jar or airtight container is ideal for storing the dryer sheets and solution.

Instructions:

• Cut your chosen fabric into squares or desired shapes. The size should be large enough to absorb the essential oils and not get lost in the laundry load.
• Prepare your solution by mixing vinegar and essential oils in a separate bowl or jar. For a stronger scent, add more drops of essential oil.
• Place the fabric squares into the container. You can layer or fold them to fit neatly.
• Pour the vinegar and essential oil solution into the container. Ensure the fabric is dampened but not saturated. You can use a spoon or brush to evenly distribute the solution.
• Seal the container and store it in a cool, dry place. The vinegar smell will dissipate as the solution dries, leaving only the fragrance of the essential oils.
• When ready to use, take out one dryer sheet and give it a quick shake or wring to remove any excess solution.
• Toss the dryer sheet into the dryer with your laundry. You can use 1-2 sheets per load, depending on the desired level of fragrance.
• After each use, place the dryer sheet back into the container to reuse. The sheets can be reused multiple times before needing to be refreshed.
• To refresh the scent, simply add more drops of essential oil to the container and give it a gentle shake to redistribute the solution.

By making your own dryer sheets, you can enjoy the benefits of naturally scented laundry while reducing the use of chemicals in your home. Experiment with different essential oils to find your favourite combinations!

Frequently asked questions