Summer Simmer Pot – A Natural Home Fragrance Recipe for the Solstice
Our summer simmer pot is a completely natural way to fill your home with the scent of summer. A totally natural air freshener, scented with citrus, rosemary and lavender — perfect for a summer solstice vibe and ideal for anyone looking for non-toxic home fragrance options.
One of my favourite things about our summer simmer pots is that they’re completely natural. No artificial perfumes or sprays — just pure, uplifting scent from real fruits and herbs. It’s one of the easiest ways to add a little seasonal magic to your home, and it smells amazing.
If you’re searching for ideas on how to make a summer simmer pot, or looking for DIY natural air freshener recipes, this is a simple and beautiful way to bring those fresh, zesty scents indoors.
What Is A Simmer Pot?
If you're new to simply simmer pots, they’re a pan of water simmered on the stove, filled with fruits, herbs and spices to naturally fragrance your home. They’re a wonderful way to embrace zero waste home fragrance using ingredients you likely already have.
Simmer pots are a non-toxic, sustainable alternative to candles or sprays — perfect for anyone sensitive to artificial scents. This DIY summer potpourri recipe makes your home smell like sunshine, naturally.
Why You’ll Love This Summer Simmer Pot
- 100% natural ingredients
- Cleanses the air and removes bad smells
- Easy to make — ready in minutes
- Ideal for summer solstice or seasonal rituals
- Perfect for mindful homemaking or spiritual cleansing
Summer Simmer Pot Ingredients
- 1 orange - sliced - we used a blood orange to represent the hot summer sun, traditionally oranges are said to be associated with energy, vitality, success and prosperity. So it can't harm to add them in!
- 2 lemons - sliced - in a solstice simmer pot, lovely fresh lemon slices represent happiness, purifying the energy and zesty optimistic vibes.
- 1 grapefruit - sliced - to help eliminate bad odours and promote balance.
- 3 sprigs of rosemary - rosemary is one of my favourite simmer pot ingredients, it smells delicious, cosy and comforting. Traditionally thought to promote cleansing, protection and ridding your space of negative energy.
- Handful of lavender blooms - the lavender scent mingled with the citrus and woody tones adds balance to our summer simmer pot. Traditionally believed to help relaxation and promote peace.
All in all this is a beautiful summery mix of scents and when gently warmed on the hob, fills the air with summer. And you can easily customise this summer simmer pot with ingredients you love or have to hand.
How To Make A Summer Simmer Pot
The step by step instructions are below…
- Fill the saucepan three quarters full with cold water.
- Add in the citrus slices. Gently add the lemon, grapefruit and blood orange to the water in the saucepan.
- Next add in the sprigs of rosemary and fresh lavender blooms.
- I like to stir the pot mindfully, setting intentions or gratitudes — especially if I’m making it for a summer solstice ritual or seasonal refresh.
- Then bring the summer simmer pot to a low simmer on the stove top, turn the heat to low and leave it simmering away for a few hours.
- Remember to check your simmer pot regularly and top up the water when needed, don’t let it boil dry.
Get more summer solstice celebration ideas here.
Tips For Using Your Simmer Pot
- Top up water regularly and never let the pot boil dry.
- When finished, drain the fruit/herbs, store in the fridge and reuse for up to 2 days.
- Compost after use for a truly eco-friendly home fragrance.
- This recipe is brilliant at eliminating fish or cooking smells naturally.
Get more home and garden tips here
More Natural Home Fragrance Ideas
Looking for more natural scent recipes for the home? Try these:
These are perfect if you’re into clean living, eco homes, or just want to make your house smell fresh without chemicals.
More home fragrance tips and ideas here
How To Make A Summer Simmer Pot
Fill your home with the scent of summer, naturally with a beautiful summer solstice simmer pot recipe
Materials
- 1 Orange - sliced
- 2 Lemons - sliced
- 1 Grapefruit - sliced
- Bunch of lavender blooms
- 3 large sprigs of rosemary
- Water to fill the pan - around 1-2 litres
Tools
- Large saucepan
- Chopping board
- Sharp knife
Instructions
- Fill the saucepan three quarters full with cold water.
- Add in the citrus slices. Gently add the lemon, grapefruit and blood orange to the water in the saucepan.
- Next add in the sprigs of rosemary and fresh lavender blooms.
- Then bring the summer simmer pot to a low simmer on the stove top, turn the heat to low and leave it simmering away for a few hours.
- REMEMBER - check your simmer pot regularly and top up the water when needed, don’t let it boil dry.
Final Thoughts
This DIY summer simmer pot is such a simple but lovely way to create seasonal vibes at home. Whether you’re celebrating the summer solstice, cleaning the house, or just want a fresh, uplifting scent — it’s a perfect go-to. Don’t forget to pin this idea for later, and share it with friends who love natural living!
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Wendy is the creator of Daisies & Pie, a UK food blog sharing easy meals and home lifestyle tips since 2012
