Instead of lighting candles or using essential oils in a diffuser, consider a Victorian-inspired method for enhancing your home's fragrance. This surprisingly easy technique requires just two ingredients and minimal effort, making it a popular choice once again.
Modern versions of smelling salts differ from the original 19th-century formulas that often contained ammonia. Today, they're crafted for a non-toxic lifestyle.
After consulting various experts, I decided to try this effective method for myself, and now it's a key part of my home fragrance routine.
Why DIY Scented Salts Are Gaining Popularity Among Health-Conscious Individuals
I discovered the concept of scented salts from an industry expert who shared insights on how lemon essential oil can boost focus. These salts offer a non-electric, non-toxic solution for promoting calmness and enhancing mood throughout the day.
As more households become aware of the hidden toxins in everyday items—from air fryers to candles—switching to natural ingredients for home fragrance has become essential for creating a healthier environment.
Scented salts from the Victorian era are making a comeback for their simplicity and affordability, allowing anyone to change their home's aroma with ease.
Experts in non-toxic living note that DIY fragrance techniques are increasingly popular. With heightened awareness about the products we bring into our homes, a shift from synthetic fragrances to natural alternatives is not surprising.
By crafting your own scents, you gain more control over what fills your space, which can ease concerns about ingredients that may irritate airways or affect pets.
Creating Your Own Scented Salts for Home Fragrance
To whip up a batch of scented salts, mix about four ounces of Epsom salt or sea salt with 10-20 drops of your chosen essential oils in a glass jar.
For this project, I recommend the Edington Handmade Glass Apothecary Jar.
Your choice of essential oils will vary based on the mood you want to set. For relaxation, try 10 drops of lavender oil and 10 drops of red mandarin oil.
Seal the jar and give it a good shake. Label it to remember its benefits, and when you need a relaxing moment, just open the lid and take a deep breath.
Alternatively, for a refreshing scent, consider blending pink grapefruit and peppermint essential oils. This combination is energizing and perfect for boosting focus.
Mix 10 drops of both oils with four ounces of Epsom salt to create a revitalizing pick-me-up whenever needed. Peppermint is especially invigorating during tasks, and pink grapefruit helps lift your spirits.
My Experience Making Scented Salts

Here's my airtight mason jar filled with scented salts and essential oils.
With a bag of Epsom salt and my favorite essential oils at home, I decided to try making my own. I combined one ounce of unscented Epsom salt with five drops of a delightful essential oil blend.
It took no time at all, and I was pleased to find that the salt stayed clump-free. The outcome was fragrant and potent, so I placed my jar nearby for a quick mood lift while I work.
While I usually enjoy lighting candles, this quick and simple method for scenting my space is budget-friendly and low-maintenance, eliminating the need for worrying about extinguishing a flame.
What You'll Need

Apothecary jars like these are perfect for your scented salts.
If you're ready to create your own scented salts, here's a selection of essentials to consider. Pick an essential oil that aligns with your preferences; I personally enjoy citrus scents and lavender, particularly in my bedroom.
Prices listed were accurate at the time of writing.
Fragrance free
These unscented Epsom salts are perfect for your scented salt creations. They're free of parabens and phthalates and have a vegan formula.
All-natural
This essential oil is perfect for aromatherapy, lab-tested for purity and quality. It's known for energizing and uplifting effects.
Set of three
These jars are ideal for holding different scented salts for various rooms, allowing you to customize your home's fragrance.
Handcrafted
This vintage-style jar adds charm to any setting and can store a larger batch of your scented salts for extended use.
Resealable bag
This sustainably harvested sea salt is a great alternative to Epsom salt, featuring a unique light grey color for your scented creations.
Premium grade
This pure lavender oil contains no fillers and blends beautifully with other scents for creating your unique signature aroma.
Meet the Expert

Jennifer is a renowned Clinical Aromatherapy Expert with over two decades of experience, helping people enhance their well-being through holistic health and scent therapy.
What does your home fragrance say about you? From floral and fruity to earthy and sweet, the scents you favor can reveal a lot about your personality.