5 DIY Fridge Fresheners Perfect for Fall

As the autumn leaves start to fall, it’s time to infuse your kitchen with the cozy scents of the season. What better place to start than your refrigerator? These five DIY fridge fresheners are not only easy to make but will also keep your fridge smelling crisp and clean all season long. Let’s dive into these aromatic creations that capture the essence of fall!

Why DIY Fridge Fresheners?

Before we get to the recipes, let’s quickly cover why making your own fridge fresheners is a great idea:

• Cost-effective compared to store-bought options
• Control over ingredients (perfect for those with sensitivities)
• Environmentally friendly (less packaging waste)
• Customizable scents to suit your preferences
• Fun, seasonal activity for the whole family

Now, let’s get crafting!

1. Cinnamon Stick and Orange Peel Freshener

This classic combination brings warmth and zest to your fridge.

Ingredients:

• 1 orange
• 2-3 cinnamon sticks
• 1 cup baking soda

Instructions:

1. Peel the orange and let the peels dry for 24 hours.
2. Mix dried orange peels and baking soda in a small jar.
3. Add cinnamon sticks.
4. Poke holes in the jar lid for air circulation.
5. Place in the back of your fridge and shake gently once a week.

Longevity: 1-2 months

2. Apple Pie Spice Gel Freshener

Capture the scent of freshly baked apple pie with this gel-based freshener.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water
• 4 teaspoons unflavored gelatin
• 1 tablespoon apple pie spice
• 10 drops vanilla essential oil
• Small glass jar

Instructions:

1. Heat water in a saucepan until hot but not boiling.
2. Stir in gelatin until dissolved.
3. Add apple pie spice and vanilla essential oil, mix well.
4. Pour into a glass jar.
5. Let it cool and set in the refrigerator for 24 hours.
6. Poke holes in the lid for air circulation.

Longevity: 3-4 weeks

3. Pumpkin Spice Baking Soda Freshener

A simple yet effective way to bring the beloved pumpkin spice aroma to your fridge.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup baking soda
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 5 drops orange essential oil
• Small mason jar

Instructions:

1. Mix baking soda and pumpkin pie spice in a bowl.
2. Add orange essential oil and mix thoroughly.
3. Pour the mixture into a mason jar.
4. Cover the jar opening with cheesecloth or paper towel and secure with the jar ring.

Longevity: 1-2 months

4. Cranberry and Rosemary Simmer Jar

This freshener doubles as a beautiful decorative piece for your fridge.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 1 small lemon, sliced
• 1 cup water
• Small mason jar

Instructions:

1. Add cranberries, rosemary sprigs, and lemon slices to the jar.
2. Fill with water, leaving some space at the top.
3. Secure lid and shake gently.
4. Poke small holes in the lid for air circulation.
5. Replace water weekly and ingredients monthly.

Longevity: 3-4 weeks (with weekly water changes)

5. Chai Tea Bag Freshener

Repurpose used chai tea bags for a spicy, aromatic freshener.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 used chai tea bags
• 1/2 cup baking soda
• Small fabric pouch or old sock

Instructions:

1. Let used chai tea bags dry completely.
2. Mix dried tea bags with baking soda in a bowl.
3. Pour mixture into a fabric pouch or clean sock.
4. Tie securely and place in the fridge.
5. Squeeze gently once a week to release scent.

Longevity: 2-3 weeks

Tips for Maximum Freshener Effectiveness

1. Placement Matters: Put fresheners in areas with good air circulation, like the back of the fridge or on the door.
2. Regular Maintenance: Shake or squeeze fresheners weekly to reactivate scents.
3. Timely Replacement: Replace fresheners according to their longevity to ensure continuous freshness.
4. Combine with Cleaning: Use these fresheners in conjunction with regular fridge cleaning for best results.
5. Customize Scents: Feel free to experiment with different essential oil combinations to create your perfect fall aroma.

Safety Precautions

• Always label your DIY fresheners clearly to avoid confusion with food items.
• Keep fresheners away from direct contact with food.
• If you have pets, ensure all ingredients used are pet-safe.
• Discard and replace if you notice any mold growth or off-putting odors.

By creating these DIY fridge fresheners, you’re not just keeping your refrigerator smelling great – you’re infusing your kitchen with the warm, inviting scents of autumn. Whether you prefer the spicy notes of cinnamon and chai or the fresh zing of cranberry and orange, there’s a freshener here to suit every fall fancy. Happy crafting and happy fall!