Learn how to make a naturally scented homemade baking soda air freshener using your favorite essential oil blend.
Quick and simple to make, this DIY deodorizer uses baking soda and essential oils to naturally reduce odors in your home, car, or any small space—no synthetic fragrances or harsh chemicals required.
After you try this tutorial, consider also making a homemade room spray for larger spaces.
What you need to make a baking soda air freshener
- Baking soda – Sodium bicarbonate absorbs odors, making it an effective, non-toxic base for an air freshener.
- Essential oils – Choose your favorite oil or blend to scent the baking soda. Use a high-quality oil you trust for the best fragrance.
- Lavender buds (optional) – Dried lavender buds boost the scent and add a decorative touch if you’re making a lavender version.
- 4-ounce mason jar and ring – Glass is best because essential oils retain their fragrance longer in glass than in plastic.
- Fabric scrap – A 4 x 4 inch piece of lightweight fabric or cheesecloth acts as a breathable lid, letting scent escape while allowing odors in.
- Glue – To secure the fabric to the mason jar ring.
How to make a DIY air freshener
Mix – In an 8-ounce mason jar, combine baking soda, 25 drops of your chosen essential oil (or a blend), and 1/2 tablespoon dried lavender buds if desired. Stir well so the oils distribute through the baking soda.
Make the lid – Turn the mason jar ring upside down on the fabric scrap, trace and cut a circle, then glue the fabric inside the ring. Screw the ring (with fabric) onto the jar and give the jar a gentle shake to help the scent distribute.
Tips for success
To use – Place your homemade air freshener wherever you need odor control or a light scent. It works best in enclosed areas: cars, closets, bathrooms, drawers, or the fridge.
Refresh the scent by shaking the jar occasionally. Replace the baking soda and essential oils every three months or whenever the fragrance fades noticeably.
Substitutions – Use any essential oils you prefer—single oils or blended combinations both work well. If you don’t have fabric for the lid, use a piece of paper with small holes poked in it to allow fragrance to escape.
About homemade baking soda air freshener
Made with only natural ingredients
Many commercial air fresheners rely on artificial fragrances and chemicals that can cause respiratory irritation or allergic reactions for some people. This simple homemade version uses baking soda plus concentrated plant extracts—essential oils—for a natural aroma without synthetic additives.
Easy to make
Mix the ingredients, create a breathable lid, and you have a functional deodorizer in minutes.
Cost effective
This air freshener is inexpensive to make—often costing less than store-bought alternatives—while offering a gentler, more natural scent.
A lighter, fresher scent
Homemade air fresheners won’t be as overpowering or long-lasting as some commercial options, but many prefer the lighter, more natural fragrance and the absence of strong chemical odors.
Where to use your DIY air freshener
- Bathroom
- Trash can cabinets
- Car
- Closets
- Dresser drawers
- Fridge
- Laundry room
- Bedroom
- Diaper changing area
- Near shoes or gym bags
- Any small space that needs odor control
More DIY baking soda based cleaners
- Homemade Laundry Scent Booster
- DIY Toilet Bowl Cleaner Gel
- Homemade Toilet Bowl Cleaner
- DIY Toilet Cleaner Bombs
- How To Clean Carpet With Baking Soda
Pin these steps to try later. Share what you make by tagging photos on social media.
Homemade Baking Soda Air Freshener
1 jar
5 minutes
5 minutes
Make a simple, natural air freshener by combining baking soda with essential oils for gentle odor control and a pleasant scent.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup baking soda
- 25 drops lavender essential oil (or 25 drops of another oil you prefer)
- 1/2 tablespoon dried lavender buds (optional)
Instructions
- Combine the baking soda and essential oils in an 8-ounce mason jar and stir well.
- Turn the ring upside down on the scrap of fabric, trace and cut a circle, glue the fabric inside the ring, then screw it onto the jar and shake lightly.
Notes
To Use – Place the jar where you want to absorb odors or add a gentle scent. Shake occasionally to refresh the fragrance and replace contents every three months or when the scent fades.
Substitutions – Use any essential oil you like. One oil or a blend both work well. A paper lid with holes can replace fabric if needed.