Decorating isn’t the only way to infuse the holiday spirit into your home. Each year, fragrance companies drop a new batch of seasonal selections that can make your space smell and feel like a winter wonderland—no decor needed. From the scents of cedar and pinecones to cranberries and gingerbread, there’s a holiday aroma for everyone. The best part about using fragrances to define the ambiance and set the mood is that you can change them anytime, unlike with decor, which can take a lot of energy and money to rotate weekly. And when having guests over for a festive soirée, relying on diffusers and candles instead of holiday-specific decor allows you to build an event around the entire season so everyone feels included. Should you choose diffusers, plugins, or candles to scent your home? Let’s dive into each option and explore the best ones for your home.

5 Winter Fragrances To Shop

• Iced Gingerbread Fragrance Oil
• Fireside Cinnamon Scent Reed Diffuser
• Winter Mantel Candle
• Holiday Plugin
• Apple Cider Holiday Signature Candle

Pros and Cons

Before deciding which home air freshener is right for you, it’s best to consider the pros and cons.

Diffusers

There are two types of diffusers: reed and electronic.

Reed diffusers are less costly than electronic diffusers, and depending on the brand, they can last for months. However, most of these kinds of diffusers are single-scent. So, to change your fragrance, you need to buy a new one, though some are refillable. These diffusers may also spill easily since the fragrance oil isn’t enclosed, which could result in stains.

While electronic diffusers are more expensive, they’re ideal for those who want to customize and switch fragrances often. You can use essential oils to create a personalized aroma or add luxury fragrance oils. These diffusers typically cover a larger area than reed diffusers and can be controlled by an app, making them ideal for building a signature home scent. But you can’t just let these diffusers sit forever; they require regular cleaning for optimal use.

Candles

Candles create a romantic and inviting atmosphere and can benefit wellness, specifically when made with essential oils. Since they’re available in various sizes, shapes, and colors, candles can also double as decor. Despite these charming qualities, the open flame poses a fire hazard, especially for homeowners with small children or pets.

Plugins

Plugins are similar to diffusers but work without water. These lasting home fresheners use cartridges, which are great for changing scents. Typically, people hide these throughout their homes, so you might not realize when your cartridge runs out. Plugins also require a power source, leading to increased energy bills.

Check out our picks for fragrances that will make you feel like you’re living in a scene from your favorite holiday movie.

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