Fall is in the air, and it smells delicious. There are a variety of ways to bring classic fall scents into your home—scented candles, room mists, plug-ins, air fresheners—the options are endless. And while all of these options are great, they only last temporarily. It won’t be too long before you’re headed back to the store to purchase more scented products. Not to mention, they’re artificial scents. This is why you may want to consider something different.

Why not opt for a more natural alternative approach to achieve longer-lasting fall scents that’ll linger for days in your home? A fall stovetop potpourri will do just the trick, allowing you to create your own fall scents with ingredients you already carry in your fridge. Plus, you can change up the scent by switching out your ingredients at any time. This affordable DIY approach is something that makes for a delightful addition to your holiday home. The first step? Creating a simmer pot of all-natural spices and herbs. Here’s how.

How To Create a Fall Simmer Pot

A simmer pot is a unique way to craft holiday fragrances using natural fruits, herbs, and spices that have been stored in your fridge or cabinet space. It’s simple: Grab your favorite saucepan and fill it up with water, add the ingredients from your favorite recipes, and bring it to a boil. Let it boil for a few minutes and turn down the heat for a nice simmer. Be sure to add water when needed, as it will boil down and you want to prevent it from burning. Before you know it, your house will be filled with a savor you can’t resist.

Common Simmer Pot Ingredients

Create your ideal fall scent and be the reason why your home smells reminiscent of a crisp, fall day. Here are a few common ingredients to get started on your new aromas. Depending on the recipe, you may have to add different seasonings. Don’t limit yourself to these items. Add more of your favorites or substitute things in the recipe. Reconfigure and create something new that best suits you.

• Lemon peels
• Apple slices
• Orange peels
• Cinnamon sticks
• Fresh ginger
• Vanilla extracts
• Pine sprigs

Fall Recipes To Try

Classic Cinnamon Apple

This scent is a fall staple. The combination of apple slices and cinnamon sticks creates a traditional, nostalgic scent loved by many.

• Apple slices
• Cinnamon sticks
• Whole cloves
• Orange rinds
• Vanilla extract

Pumpkin Pie Spice

Pumpkin spice is also another popular fall favorite. When most think of fall, the first thing they think of is pumpkin spice. Get heavy-handed with pumpkin seasoning for an extra kick.

• Pumpkin pie spice seasoning
• Cinnamon sticks
• Vanilla extract
• Apple cider or apple juice
• Ground nutmeg
• Cloves

Citrus Orange

There is no better sweet smell than citrus. If you’d like a little kick, add some spice seasoning for an Orange Spice simmer pot.

• Slices of oranges or clementines
• Vanilla extract
• Rosemary
• Spice seasoning

Cranberry Orange

For this recipe, think about the famous cranberry sauce at Thanksgiving Dinner, but better.

• Fresh cranberries
• Rosemary sprigs
• Orange slices
• Whole cloves
• Cinnamon sticks
• Anise

Don’t forget, the fresher the ingredients, the better!