How to make home fragrance last!
As part of this week’s contest, I asked for readers to submit their questions about perfume and fragrance. Already, I’ve gotten some great ones, so it’s time to reach into the question bag and shed some light on the subject. Tammy Kennedy asked a great question today over on the contest page:
I always wonder why no matter what scent, brand, type of air freshener that you use it never seems to keep the smell in your home but you can always smell the scent in other peoples homes. I know they say we just get used to the scent but even after leaving for a few days i can’t smell the scent.
I’ve definitely noticed this problem. Sometimes I think we do get used to the scent, but other times, it’s really just not working (I’m looking at you, Glade Plug-ins). If you like the plug-in style home fragrance, the new Bath and Body Works ScentPorts really do work a little better. My orange blossom ScentPort has been going strong for about two weeks now. I have not tried the Febreze Noticeables but I think with the changing scents you would be less likely to get used to it.
But aside from plug-in type home fragrances, I like two other methods: wax tarts (like Yankee), and reed diffusers. Reed diffusers are hit-and-miss, and you really need to find a good brand that uses good reeds and good oil. When you want to refresh or strengthen the scent, you just turn the reeds over (about once a week does it for me). I know these work well because I have made them for several of my co-workers and I can smell them when I go in their offices. Wax tarts on candle or electric tart warmers wear out every 8 to 12 hours of burn time, so you can change the scent to prevent your nose from getting used to it.
I think one more problem is the fact that these fragrances have to compete with other not-so-pleasant smells like pets or garbage. We live in modern times and there are plenty of ways to eliminate these odors rather than just cover them up (everything from vacuum cleaners with charcoal filters to plain old baking soda). Don’t forget to bleach out that garbage pail every month or so!
So, folks - what’s your favorite home fragrance scent and method, and how long does it usually last for you?
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2 opinions for How to make home fragrance last!
Gail S
Jul 15, 2008 at 6:02 am
I’ve found the best ways to very definitively scent my living space are home fragrance oils and reed diffusers. B&BW and TBS both have tons of reasonably priced oils with many options for burning them. They can fill my 2200sqft home in about five minutes, so make sure you like the scent! As you said above, the reed diffusers are very hit-or-miss. With this method, you really do get what you pay for. I’ve had good luck with Anthousa in particular.
Amy
Jul 15, 2008 at 6:40 am
Thanks for your insight, Gail! Do you put water in the oil warmer dish along with the oil, before turning it on? I have heard some people do that to prevent it from smoking.
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