20 Stovetop Potpourri Recipes: Make Your Home Smell Amazing

A simmering pot, or stovetop potpourri, is one of the easiest and most natural ways to make your home smell incredible. By gently heating a pot of water filled with aromatic ingredients—like citrus peels, herbs, and spices—you can release their natural fragrances, filling your space with warm, inviting scents.

It’s a simple, natural alternative to candles and sprays, perfect for anyone looking to add a personal touch to their home.

Whether you’re simmering oranges and cloves for a festive holiday vibe or rosemary and lemon for a crisp, clean feel, each blend has its own unique way of transforming your space.

The best part? The gentle steam not only carries the fragrance but also helps add a little extra moisture to dry indoor air, especially during colder months.

In this handy reference guide, I’ve gathered a whopping 20 simmering pot recipes, along with tips for customizing your blends, various ingredients to try, tricks for boosting the scent throw, troubleshooting help and lots more.

Whether you’re looking to create a cozy atmosphere for a family evening, brighten your mornings with energizing citrus, or unwind at night with soothing floral notes, there’s something here for every mood and occasion.

Aromatic Simmer Blends: Recipe Collection

Making a simmering pot is as simple as it gets:

• Fill a pot or slow cooker with 3-4 cups of water.
• Add your chosen ingredients (fruits, spices, herbs, etc.).
• Bring the water to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
• Let it simmer for as long as you like, topping off with water as needed.

Ready to get started? Here’s a collection of easy recipes to try, each crafted to delight your senses and keep your home smelling incredible.

Classic Blends

Warm Citrus & Spice: The timeless blend of citrus and spices creates a warm, sweet-spicy aroma that’s perfect for cozying up on chilly days.

• Peels from 1 orange and 1 lemon, 2 cinnamon sticks, 1 tablespoon whole cloves.

Apple Pie Delight: A comforting scent reminiscent of freshly baked apple pie, this blend fills your home with warm, nostalgic sweetness.

• Apple peels, 1 cinnamon stick, 1 teaspoon nutmeg, and a splash of vanilla extract.

Vanilla Citrus Glow: Sweet vanilla meets the zesty brightness of orange for a cheerful, uplifting scent that’s perfect year-round.

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, peel from one orange, 1 cinnamon stick, 1 star anise.

Forest Retreat: Earthy and woodsy, this blend evokes the tranquility of a pine forest, ideal for winter evenings.

• Handful of pine needles, 2 bay leaves, 1 tablespoon cloves, 1 sprig of rosemary.

Holiday Favorites

Christmas Morning: A festive and fruity scent that brings the joyful essence of the holidays into your home.

• Peel from 1 orange, 2 cinnamon sticks, 1/4 cup fresh cranberries, 1 tablespoon allspice.

Gingerbread Spice: A spicy-sweet aroma that smells just like freshly baked gingerbread cookies, perfect for holiday cheer.

• 1 tablespoon ground ginger, 1 cinnamon stick, 1 teaspoon cloves, 1 teaspoon molasses.

Mulled Apple Cider: Rich and spiced, this blend recreates the warmth of sipping mulled cider by the fire.

• 1 cup apple cider, 2 orange slices, 2 cinnamon sticks, 1 tablespoon star anise, 3 whole cloves.

Winter Cranberry Bliss: Sweet and tangy with a hint of spice, this blend is perfect for cozy holiday gatherings.

• 1/4 cup cranberries, peel from 1 tangerine, 1 cinnamon stick, 2 star anise pods.

Fresh & Fruity

Citrus Breeze: A light, zesty aroma that’s ideal for spring cleaning or energizing your mornings.

• Peel from 1 lemon, 1 lime, and 1 orange, 2 sprigs of fresh mint.

Berry & Vanilla Burst: Fruity sweetness with a touch of spice, perfect for adding a playful, fresh scent to your home.

• 1/2 cup frozen mixed berries, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 cinnamon stick.

Tropical Paradise: A breezy, tropical scent that transports you to an island getaway, no matter the season.

• 1/4 cup pineapple chunks, peel from 1 orange, 1 teaspoon coconut extract.

Lemon Lavender Bliss: Floral and citrusy, this calming blend creates a serene, spa-like atmosphere.

• Peel from 1 lemon, 2 tablespoons dried lavender, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Unique and Aromatic

Spa Retreat: Clean, refreshing, and luxurious, this blend is like bringing the spa into your home.

• 1 cucumber (sliced), 2 sprigs rosemary, 1 teaspoon lemon extract, 1 peppermint tea bag.

Smoky Campfire: Bold and rustic, this blend evokes the nostalgic scent of a cozy campfire.

• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika, 1 cinnamon stick, 1 teaspoon liquid smoke, 2 bay leaves.

Chai Spice Warmth: A creamy, exotic blend with rich, spicy undertones, perfect for chilly afternoons.

• 2 black tea bags, 1/4 cup sliced fresh ginger, 2 cardamom pods, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.

Herbal Meadow: Crisp and green, this herbal blend is reminiscent of a sunlit meadow.

• 2 sprigs thyme, 1 sprig rosemary, 1 teaspoon peppermint, 1 teaspoon lemon balm.

Year-Round Favorites

Morning Energizer: The bold aroma of coffee with a hint of spice creates an invigorating start to your day.

• 2 cups coffee grounds, 1 cinnamon stick, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Eucalyptus & Mint: Cool and refreshing, this blend clears the air and leaves your home feeling fresh and energized.

• 1/2 cup dried eucalyptus leaves, 2 tablespoons dried peppermint, 1 teaspoon tea tree oil.

Cozy Orchard Walk: Sweet and spicy with warm undertones, this blend feels like a stroll through an orchard on a crisp day.

• 1 cup apple cider, peel from 1 pear, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1 tablespoon cloves.

Sweet Chamomile Dream: Gentle and floral, with a hint of sweetness, this blend is perfect for winding down in the evening.

• 2 chamomile tea bags, 1 teaspoon honey, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Master the Art of Customization

One of the joys of simmering pots is their incredible versatility. With a little creativity, you can craft a fragrance that perfectly matches your mood, the season, or even a special occasion.

Whether you want to evoke the coziness of fall, the freshness of spring, or the calm of a relaxing spa day, the possibilities are endless. Here’s how to become a true master of customization and create blends as unique as your home.

Start with the Right Base

The base of your simmering pot determines the overall feel of your blend. Different liquids create distinct moods and set the stage for your ingredients to shine.

• Relaxing Bases: Chamomile tea, green tea, or plain water infused with a few drops of lavender oil are ideal for creating calming, soothing aromas.
• Energizing Bases: Zesty citrus juices like lemon or orange, or strong herbal teas such as peppermint or eucalyptus, are perfect for uplifting your mood and refreshing your space.
• Cozy and Warm Bases: Apple cider, cranberry juice, or water with a splash of vanilla extract work beautifully for creating comforting, nostalgic fragrances.

Quick Tip: Combine liquids for a more complex scent, like water with a touch of apple cider or tea. Experimentation is key!

Create Depth with Layers

A well-balanced simmering pot has three distinct layers of scent: base notes, middle notes, and top notes. Understanding these layers helps you build a fragrance that feels complete and harmonious.

• Base Notes: These are the foundation of your blend and the longest-lasting aromas. Use grounding elements like cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, star anise, or woodsy herbs like rosemary and cedar.
• Middle Notes: These add richness and character, tying the fragrance together. Ingredients like citrus peels, fresh fruits, floral herbs (like lavender or chamomile), or berries work well here.
• Top Notes: These are light and refreshing, the first scents that catch your attention. Add mint, lemon zest, eucalyptus, or a few drops of essential oils for a bright, uplifting finish.

Quick Tip: Use restraint with your base notes—1-2 elements are often enough. Let the middle and top notes add balance and personality to your blend.

Play with Sweet, Spicy, and Fresh Notes

The secret to a memorable simmering pot is balance. Each category of aroma adds its own dimension, so mixing them thoughtfully can help you create a blend that’s just right.

• Sweet Notes: These add warmth, softness, and comfort. Try ingredients like vanilla extract, orange peels, apple slices, honey, or dried cranberries.
• Spicy Notes: These bring depth and richness. Cinnamon sticks, cloves, ginger, nutmeg, and star anise are all bold and aromatic.
• Fresh Notes: These keep your blend light and vibrant. Use lemon zest, lime peels, mint leaves, or eucalyptus to brighten your fragrance.

Quick Tip: Start with a 2:1:1 ratio—2 parts sweet, 1 part spicy, and 1 part fresh. Adjust as needed to suit your preferences.

Tailor Scents to the Season or Occasion

Your simmering pot can reflect the time of year or the mood you want to create. Here are a few ideas:

• Spring: Lemon zest, lavender, and mint for a fresh, clean scent.
• Summer: Lime peels, coconut flakes, and pineapple chunks for a tropical escape.
• Fall: Apple slices, cinnamon sticks, and cloves for a cozy autumn vibe.
• Winter: Cranberries, orange peels, and star anise for a festive holiday aroma.
• Relaxation: Chamomile, vanilla, and dried rose petals for a spa-like experience.

Quick Tip: Keep a journal of your favorite seasonal blends to recreate them effortlessly year after year.

Experiment with Unconventional Ingredients

Customization doesn’t have to stop at the basics—get creative with ingredients that add a unique twist:

• Edible Flowers: Dried rose petals, hibiscus, or chamomile flowers lend a floral, romantic touch.
• Herbal Elements: Try thyme, sage, or bay leaves for earthy, savory notes.
• Tropical Flavors: Coconut flakes, mango skins, or passionfruit for exotic summer vibes.
• Unexpected Add-Ins: Coffee grounds, cocoa powder, fragrant teas, or even a splash of wine for bold, unique aromas.

Quick Tip: Add these more unusual elements sparingly to avoid overpowering the blend.

Adjust as You Go

A simmering pot is a living creation—you can tweak it as it simmers to keep the fragrance fresh and evolving:

• Refresh the Blend: Add fresh slices of fruit or a few more herbs if the scent begins to fade.
• Enhance with Oils: Drop in a few drops of essential oils mid-simmer to boost the aroma.
• Hydrate Regularly: Keep an eye on the water level and top off with hot water to prevent ingredients from burning.

Quick Tip: Stir the pot occasionally to redistribute the ingredients and ensure a balanced release of aromas.

By mastering the art of customization, you’ll never have to settle for generic scents again. Instead, you’ll have the tools to craft a unique blend for every mood, season, or occasion. The possibilities are truly endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make each simmering pot your own!

What Ingredients Can I Use in Stovetop Potpourri?

One of the joys of simmering pots is their endless versatility.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can craft unique, delightful fragrances tailored to your home, mood, or the season.

From fruits and spices to herbs and flowers, the combinations are limited only by your creativity.

Let’s explore the best ingredients to use, along with expert tips for making the most of them.

Fruits: The Heart of Sweet and Fresh Aromas

Fruits are a cornerstone of simmering pots, bringing natural sweetness, brightness, and warmth to your blends. Experiment with different combinations to match the season or create the ambiance you desire.

Citrus Fruits

• Oranges, Lemons, and Limes: Bursting with essential oils, their peels create crisp, refreshing aromas that blend beautifully with spices or herbs.
• Grapefruit: A tangy, slightly bitter scent adds complexity to your blends, ideal for brightening up a space.

Other Fruits

• Apples: Perfect for cozy, fall-inspired scents. Use slices, cores, or dried apple rings for a comforting aroma.
• Cranberries: These holiday favorites add tartness and a festive pop of red to your pot. Use fresh or frozen for best results.
• Pineapple: Brings a tropical flair, especially when paired with coconut or lime.
• Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries lend subtle sweetness and pair well with vanilla or mint.
• Pears: Their soft, sweet scent complements spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, creating elegant, comforting blends.

Tips for Using Fruits

• Save Your Scraps: Freeze peels, cores, and overripe fruit for future simmering pots to reduce waste.
• Balance Sweet and Tart: Combine sweet fruits (like apples or pears) with tart ones (like citrus or cranberries) for a well-rounded fragrance.
• Freshen Midway: Toss in fresh fruit slices if your pot starts to lose its scent.
• Mix Fresh and Dried Fruits: Using both adds depth and longevity to your fragrance.

Spices: The Foundation of Warmth and Depth

Spices add richness, depth, and warmth, making them ideal for cozy, inviting scents that suit any season.

Whole Spices

• Cinnamon Sticks: A versatile classic that pairs with almost anything. Its warm sweetness is perfect for seasonal or everyday blends.
• Cloves: Bold and aromatic, cloves add a spicy, woodsy punch. Use sparingly for balance.
• Star Anise: Exotic and slightly licorice-like, it creates a unique, bold layer of complexity.
• Nutmeg: Whole or grated, nutmeg provides a creamy, warm aroma that complements fruity and spiced blends.

Ground Spices

• Ginger: Fresh slices add a spicy kick, while ground ginger provides a milder effect.
• Allspice: A blend of clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg-like notes in one spice—perfect for autumn and winter scents.

Spice Tips

• Layer Whole and Ground: Start with whole spices for longevity and sprinkle in ground spices for a quick boost.
• Start Small: Spices like cloves and star anise are strong—use them sparingly to avoid overpowering your blend.
• Store Properly: Keep spices in airtight containers in a cool, dark place to preserve their potency.

Herbs: Fresh and Earthy Aromas

Herbs add a fresh, green element to simmering pots, balancing sweet or spicy notes with their crisp, aromatic qualities.

Fresh Herbs

• Rosemary: Woodsy and bold, rosemary pairs beautifully with lemon, orange, or pine for invigorating scents.
• Mint: Cool and refreshing, mint works well with citrus or vanilla to create light, energizing blends.
• Thyme: Subtle and earthy, thyme complements fruity or floral notes for a sophisticated fragrance.
• Basil: Slightly sweet and peppery, basil is a unique addition to summer-inspired blends.

Dried Herbs

• Lavender: Calming and floral, lavender is perfect for spa-like or relaxing evening aromas.
• Sage: Smoky and herbal, sage enhances warm, cozy blends, especially in fall.
• Bay Leaves: Earthy and subtle, bay leaves pair well with spices for rich, layered fragrances.

Herb Tips

• Use the Stems: Herb stems (like rosemary or mint) are just as fragrant as the leaves—reduce waste by including them.
• Blend Fresh and Dried: Mixing fresh and dried herbs adds complexity and balance.
• Add Gradually: Herbs can overpower a blend if overused, so start with small amounts and adjust.

Quick Tip: Pair herbs with complementary ingredients, like mint with lime, rosemary with apples, or thyme with pears, for unique and inviting aromas.

Flowers: Soft, Romantic Fragrances

Flowers add elegance and a touch of romance to your simmering pot. Their gentle scents work best when paired with stronger ingredients like spices or citrus.

• Dried Rose Petals: Sweet and floral, rose pairs beautifully with vanilla or orange peel for a romantic blend.
• Hibiscus: Fruity and tart, hibiscus adds a tropical note and a vibrant pop of color.
• Chamomile: Calming and mild, chamomile is ideal for relaxation.
• Jasmine: Rich and sweet, jasmine is perfect for creating an evening ambiance.

Flower Tips

• Start Small: Use 1-2 tablespoons of dried flowers to avoid overpowering the blend.
• Store Well: Keep dried flowers in airtight containers to preserve their aroma and color.
• Pair for Impact: Combine flowers with citrus or spices for a more balanced, aromatic fragrance.

Extracts and Essential Oils: A Scent Boost

These concentrated ingredients are perfect for intensifying your simmering pot’s fragrance:

• Vanilla Extract: Sweet and creamy, it’s a versatile addition to any blend.
• Almond Extract: Warm and nutty, almond pairs beautifully with fruity or spiced blends.
• Essential Oils: Just a few drops of lemon, eucalyptus, lavender, or peppermint oil can transform your pot into a powerhouse of aroma.

Quick Tip: Add extracts or essential oils near the end of simmering to preserve their potency.

Tips & Tricks for Simmering Pot Success

Mastering simmering pots is all about making the process simple, enjoyable, and long-lasting. From storage hacks to safety tips, these expert strategies will help you get the most out of your simmering blends while keeping your home smelling amazing.

Smart Storage for Ingredients

• Don’t toss outdated spices like cinnamon sticks, cloves, or nutmeg—they’re ideal for simmering pots. They may have lost some flavor for cooking, but they’ll still deliver wonderful aromas.
• Chop leftover ginger, rosemary, mint, or even citrus peels and freeze them in ice cube trays with water. Pop one or two cubes into your simmering pot whenever you need a quick fragrance boost.

Extend the life of your ingredients by drying them first. Save fruit peels like orange, lemon, lime, and apple by:

• Air-Drying: Leave them on a rack in a warm, dry spot for 2-3 days.
• Oven-Drying: Bake them at low heat (200°F) for 1-2 hours.
• Dehydrating: Use a food dehydrator for perfectly dried peels.

Once dried, store them in airtight jars or resealable bags to use whenever you need them.

How to Boost the Scent Throw

• Add Essential Oils: Enhance the fragrance by adding a few drops of essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, or orange. This helps intensify the scent without needing extra ingredients.
• Salt for Longevity: Add a pinch of salt to the water. Salt slows evaporation, allowing your pot to simmer longer without drying out.
• Double Boil for Strength: Float a small heat-safe bowl filled with concentrated ingredients (like citrus zest, almond extract or spices) in your simmering pot. The additional heat in the bowl intensifies the scent, making it more potent for larger spaces.

Quick Tip: Start your simmering pot with a quick boil before lowering it to a simmer—this releases the aromas faster.

Make It Budget-Friendly

Repurpose Scraps: Your kitchen leftovers are simmering pot gold. Here’s what to save:

• Apple cores and peels from snacks or baking.
• Herb stems (like rosemary or thyme) that often get discarded.
• Dried or wilted flowers, such as roses, lavender, or chamomile.
• Don’t let the last splash of cranberry, apple, or orange juice go to waste. Pour it into your simmering pot to create a richer fruity base.
• Look for spices and dried ingredients in bulk or clearance sections—they’re often less expensive and perfect for simmering blends.
• Reuse Your Blends: After simmering all day, let the pot cool and strain the mixture. Store the liquid in the fridge, and you can reuse (within three days) by adding fresh water.

Prioritize Safety

• Avoid Burning Dry: Always set a timer (30–60 minutes) to remind yourself to check the water level. A dry pot can burn ingredients, damage your pot, or worse.
• Hands-Free Simmering: Use a slow cooker or mini crockpot on low heat if you’re busy or need to step away. This keeps things safe and hassle-free.
• Choose the Right Pot: Avoid non-stick pans, as the constant heat can wear down the coating over time. Stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic pots are much better options.

Tailor Blends to Special Occasions

• Gifts in a Jar: Pre-make dried simmering pot blends and package them in mason jars with a handwritten recipe tag. They make thoughtful gifts for holidays, housewarmings, or birthdays. Find more ideas here: Free Gifts In A Jar Recipes, Tags & Tips.
• Dinner Party Prep: Set the mood before guests arrive by simmering savory blends like: 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, 1 sprig fresh thyme or sage, peel from 1 lemon or 1 orange, 1/2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns (adds warmth without overpowering), 1 bay leaf (subtle and earthy) with 2 to 3 cups of water.
• Holiday Scents: Add a handful of cranberries, cinnamon sticks, and orange peels to create festive blends that wow your holiday guests.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Even though simmering pots are simple to make, a few common hiccups can arise. Whether the scent isn’t strong enough, your pot runs dry, or the aroma feels off-balance, these practical solutions will help you enjoy the perfect fragrant experience every time.

The Scent Isn’t Strong Enough

If your simmering pot isn’t filling the room with fragrance, try these quick fixes to amplify the aroma:

• Add More Ingredients: Double the amount of fruit peels, spices, or herbs in your blend to intensify the scent. Some ingredients, like citrus or vanilla, require a larger quantity to stand out.
• Include Essential Oils: Add 3-5 drops of essential oils (e.g., orange, cinnamon, lavender) to boost the fragrance instantly. Essential oils are highly concentrated and can make a big difference.
• Start with a Rapid Boil: Bring the water to a boil for 3-5 minutes before reducing it to a simmer. This helps release the aromatic oils from your ingredients more effectively.
• Replenish Midway: If the scent fades after a few hours, toss in fresh citrus peels, herbs, or a splash of vanilla extract to revive the aroma.

Quick Tip: Use a mix of long-lasting base notes (like cinnamon or cloves) and lighter top notes (like lemon zest) for a balanced scent that lingers.

The Pot Keeps Running Dry

A pot running dry can lead to burning or uneven scents, but it’s easy to avoid:

• Set a Timer: Check your pot every 30-60 minutes and top it off with hot water as needed.
• Slow Cooker to the Rescue: Use a slow cooker on the “low” setting for a hands-free solution that minimizes water loss.
• Lower the Heat: Simmer on the lowest possible setting to release the fragrance without losing water too quickly.

The Blend Smells Overpowering or Unbalanced

Sometimes, your blend might feel too strong, too spicy, or just not quite right. Here’s how to adjust:

• Dilute It: Add more water or neutral ingredients, like apple peels or plain cinnamon, to tone down an overwhelming scent.
• Sweeten It Up: Soften an overly spicy or bitter blend with a teaspoon of honey, sugar, or vanilla extract.
• Brighten the Notes: If the blend feels too earthy or heavy, toss in a few citrus peels or a drop of lemon oil to lighten things up.
• Go Slow with Strong Ingredients: Ingredients like cloves or star anise are very concentrated—start small and adjust as needed.

Quick Tip: Always test new combinations with small quantities before scaling up to avoid overpowering blends.

The Scent Doesn’t Last Long

If your simmering pot’s aroma fades too quickly, these tips will help it linger:

• Layer Ingredients: Combine long-lasting base notes (e.g., cloves, cinnamon, star anise) with lighter top notes (e.g., citrus or mint) for a fragrance that evolves throughout the day.
• Refresh with Essential Oils: Add a few drops of essential oil halfway through the day to boost the fading scent without needing to replace all the ingredients.
• Use a Juicy Base: Swap plain water for apple cider, orange juice, or herbal tea to amplify the aroma and create a richer scent.
• Simmer Low and Slow: Keep the heat low to preserve the aromatic compounds and avoid burning off the fragrance too quickly.

The Blend Smells Burnt

Burnt smells can ruin the mood, but there are ways to fix it:

• If the pot starts to smell scorched, turn off the heat immediately and add water to rehydrate the ingredients.
• Once something burns, the smell can linger. Remove the scorched pieces and start fresh with new ingredients if needed.
• Use a heat-resistant pot like stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic. Avoid non-stick pans, as they can overheat and degrade with constant simmering.
• Monitor Water Levels: Burnt smells often happen when the pot runs dry. Regularly refill the water to prevent this.

Ingredients That Are Harmful or Irritating

Some substances aren’t suitable for simmering pots, as they can release unpleasant or harmful fumes:

• Synthetic Fragrances: Avoid perfumes, air fresheners, or chemically fragranced oils, as they can release toxic chemicals when heated.
• Irritating Spices: Skip spices like chili powder or crushed red pepper, which release capsaicin when heated, irritating your eyes and throat.
• Overpowering Ingredients: Use concentrated items like cloves, star anise, or essential oils sparingly to avoid overwhelming the blend.

Quick Tip: Research pet-safe ingredients if you have animals in the home, as some scents (like tea tree or eucalyptus oils) can affect pets.

Simmering Pots FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

Curious about how to make the most of your homemade simmering potpourri? This comprehensive FAQ covers the most common questions, along with tips and tricks to help you enjoy the magic of natural home fragrance.

How Long Do Simmering Pots Last?

They can last all day, provided you keep an eye on the water level and top it off as needed. If you turn off the heat and let it cool, you can refrigerate the mixture for up to 3 days to reuse later. However, after a few days, the ingredients may lose their fragrance or start to break down, so it’s best to refresh your blend regularly.

Quick Tip: If you’re reusing a mixture, strain out old ingredients and add fresh ones (like citrus peels or herbs) to boost the aroma.

Is There a Difference Between a Simmering Pot & Stovetop Potpourri?

Not really! Both terms refer to the same concept—gently heating natural ingredients like fruits, herbs, and spices in water to create delightful, aromatic scents that fill your home. Whether you call it a simmering pot or stovetop potpourri, the result is the same: a cozy, inviting atmosphere made with simple, natural ingredients.

Here are some more terms they are also known as:

Stovetop Potpourri	Aromatic Simmer Blends	Simmering Spice Pots
Fragrance Pots	Simmer Scents	Stovetop Scents
Scented Steams	Seasonal Scent Blends	Boiled Scents

Can I Add Perfume or Cologne?

No, it’s best to avoid adding synthetic fragrances like perfume or cologne to your simmering pot. When heated, artificial fragrances can release harmful chemicals into the air. Stick to natural ingredients like citrus peels, spices, herbs, and essential oils for a safe and healthy alternative

Quick Tip: If you want to enhance the scent, add a few drops of a natural essential oil that complements your blend (e.g., lavender, eucalyptus, or orange).

What’s the Difference Between a Simmering Pot and Potpourri?

While both simmering pots and potpourri are used to fragrance a home, they work in very different ways:

• Simmering Pots: Fresh or dried ingredients (like fruits, spices, and herbs) are simmered in water, releasing fragrance through steam. They provide a rich, natural scent that’s perfect for immediate use.
• Potpourri: Made from dried ingredients that release their scent passively over time without the need for water or heat. Potpourri is great for subtle, long-lasting fragrance in decorative bowls or sachets. See this page for more information: Capture Summer’s Floral Treasures With Homemade Potpourri.

Are There Any Stovetop Alternatives?

While the classic stovetop simmering pot is a tried-and-true method, it’s not the only way to infuse your home with delightful aromas. These alternative techniques are versatile, often safer, and perfect for different settings or when you’re short on time.

Oven Method

The oven method is a fantastic hands-off option that allows you to spread fragrance throughout your home without hovering over a stovetop. The warm, dry heat intensifies the natural oils in your ingredients, creating bold and lingering aromas.

Tinfoil and Vanilla Trick:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F.
• Take a small sheet of tinfoil, fold it into a shallow bowl, and pour a teaspoon of vanilla extract onto it.
• Place it on the center rack, turn off the oven, and leave the door slightly ajar to let the gentle scent of vanilla fill your space.

Best For: Cozy, sweet scents like vanilla, almond, or caramel tones.

Pan Method

• Fill a loaf pan or shallow baking dish with water and your favorite simmering ingredients, such as cinnamon sticks, orange peels, cloves, or even apple slices.
• Place the pan in the oven at 300°F. After 30 minutes, once the fragrance has spread, turn off the heat and leave the oven door propped open for residual warmth and scent.

Best For: Warm, spiced blends like cinnamon-apple, citrus-clove, or chai-inspired aromas.

Crockpot/Slow Cooker Method

The crockpot method is one of the easiest, safest, and most effective ways to enjoy simmering pot fragrances all day long. Ideal for busy households or gatherings, it requires minimal supervision while delivering steady, long-lasting aromas.

• Fill your crockpot halfway with water.
• Add your chosen ingredients—about 1-2 cups for a 6-quart crockpot. Think orange peels, cranberries, cinnamon sticks, and vanilla extract.
• Set the crockpot to high for an hour with the lid on to heat the mixture quickly.
• Once warm, switch to the “low” setting, remove the lid, and let the steam carry the fragrance through your space.

Bonus Slow Cooker Recipe (Glass Jar Batch)

Fragrant Crockpot Ingredients:

1 cup dried lavender leaves
4 cups dried rose petals
1 tsp. anise seed
1 TBS ground nutmeg
1 TBS whole cloves
1 cinnamon stick (broken and crushed into pieces)
1 TBS crushed benzoin fixative
5 drops jasmine oil
5 drops patchouli oil
5 drops rose geranium oil
5 drops rosemary oil

Directions:

• Mix all ingredients and store in a glass container for 1 month before using (store in dark location).
• Fill crockpot halfway with water, add 1 to 2 cups potpourri then turn the heat on low (lid off).
• Source: Company’s Coming Slow Cooker Recipes (by Jean Pare).

Whether you’re using your oven or slow cooker, these alternatives make it easy to fill your home with delightful scents anytime, anywhere.

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Simmering pots are all about personalization. With endless ingredient options and pairing possibilities, you can craft blends that reflect your personality, the season, or the ambiance you want to create. Don’t be afraid to experiment—you might just discover your new favorite scent!