DIY air freshener: perfect perfume pairings for the summertime

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As you know, reed stick air fresheners/diffusers perfume and scent homes without needing to be plugged into an electrical socket. These types of diffusers rely solely on the intensity of the essential oils chosen, and the number of reed sticks used to soak up the oil. Making a reed stick diffuser is very simple, and we demonstrate this to you below:

How to make your own reed diffuser

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Basically, all you need is a container for the scented oil and reeds sticks to diffuse it. Here's a few other considerations:

• The best container to use is one made of glass or ceramic, ie. materials that can withstand temperature fluctuations in a room and which the oils cannot leech into;
• The container must also have a narrow mouth, to prevent the oils evaporating away too quickly;
• You need a carrier oil - usually a vegetable oil - in which to dilute the fragrant, essential oils. Choose an odorless oil as the carrier, such as mineral oil, sweet almond oil, grape seed oil or safflower oil;
• The diffuser sticks are easily found online and are usually made of reed, rattan, bamboo or compacted fibers. You can also find the sticks in different shapes and colors (and some even come with decorations on their tips). And don't throw these sticks away when you change/top up the oils: over time, they will dry out completely and you can use them again. That said, if you do throw them away, being all-natural, they will not pollute the environment.

The proportions of the liquids/oils to be used are pretty much standard across all diffuser types: two thirds carrier oil and one third essential oils, ie. a 2:1 ratio.

Once you've filled up your container with the above-described oils, you just need to insert your diffuser sticks and you're done! Be aware that it will take a while for the sticks to soak up the scented oils, so start by using only two or three sticks. Once you start to smell the scent in your home, you can add more sticks. When the aroma begins to fade, just turn the sticks upside down in the container.

The perfect perfume pairings for summer

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Popular scents/essential oils used during the summer are those deemed to be refreshing and energizing, but sometimes you might want a fragrance which is fruity and relaxing. Here are some combinations you can try out:

• Orange and jasmine: fruity and energizing, citrus fruits are always a great starting point for perfumes, especially in the summer. Adding the sweet scent of jasmine softens the fragrance, making this blend perfect for use all day long;
• Vanilla and coconut: for those who can't resist a scent that is both delicious and sweet, this pairing could be the answer!
• Lavender and lemon: both considered to be revitalizing oils, lavender is associated with relaxation and lemon with vitality - a perfect all-purpose scent pairing!
• Mint and grapefruit: if you need a summertime perfume that is both revitalizing and fresh, combine the "zing" of sweet mint with the citrusy tones of grapefruit;
• Eucalyptus and cedar: these balsamic-loaded oils are perfect for bringing a feeling of freshness into a home;
• Freesia and bergamot: floral and citrusy, this is another great combination to try.

Have you chosen what perfume you'll use yet?