More and more people are looking for natural ways to scent their homes, create cleaning products, and explore essential oils on feet for their potential absorption and uses. That’s why essential oil sprays are becoming so popular.
When you make your own essential oil sprays, you can customize the scent, strength, and ingredients. Plus, you avoid many of the harsh chemicals found in commercial air fresheners and cleaning products.
This article provides a guide on how to mix essential oils for spray, so you can create your own natural, customized sprays at home.
Why make your own essential oil spray?
Most commercially available sprays have synthetic fragrances and propellants, and you might be worried about spraying those chemicals around your home.
Making your own spray lets you control every ingredient that goes into it. You can customize the scent to exactly what you want, and it’s usually cheaper than buying something at the store.
Plus, you can use your essential oil sprays for almost anything — linen sprays, air fresheners, cleaning solutions, and more!
Essential Oils for Spray: Choosing the Right Scents
The art of blending essential oils is all about creating a symphony of scents. You’ll want to keep a few things in mind, like the notes of each oil, especially when considering the best oils for Pitta based on Ayurvedic principles. Think of it like this:
- Top notes are the first scents you smell, but they don’t stick around for long.
- Middle notes are the heart of your blend, giving it body and balance.
- Base notes are the heavy hitters that last the longest, providing a grounding effect.
Ultimately, the best essential oil blend is one that you love and that gives you the desired effect.
Essential Oil Blend Ideas
Need some inspiration? Here are a few popular and effective combinations:
- Lavender and Bergamot for a relaxing and uplifting vibe.
- Cedarwood and Lavender for a calming and grounding effect.
- Eucalyptus and Tea Tree for a cleansing and refreshing spray.
One last thing: be careful which oils you choose, especially if you’re making a linen or room spray. Some dark-colored or resinous oils can stain fabrics, so it’s best to avoid them altogether.
DIY Essential Oil Spray Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making your own essential oil spray is easy! Here’s what you’ll need:
- A spray bottle (glass is best, especially for citrus oils)
- Essential oils (about 40 drops total – mix and match!)
- Distilled water
- Vodka or rubbing alcohol (about 1/3 cup)
- A funnel (optional, but it helps!)
Instructions
- Pour the vodka or rubbing alcohol into your spray bottle.
- Add your essential oils. The alcohol helps the oils mix with the water.
- Fill the rest of the bottle with distilled water, leaving a little space at the top.
- Close the bottle tightly and shake well.
- Shake well before each use, as the oils may separate.
Important Notes
- Always do a patch test on a hidden area before spraying on delicate fabrics. Some oils can stain.
- Store your spray in a cool, dark place to help the essential oils last longer.
How to use your essential oil spray
Once you’ve crafted your perfect spray, you can use it in so many ways!
- Freshen up your bedding and towels.
- Use it as a room freshener around your home.
- Clean your yoga mat after a workout.
Here are some tips:
- Hold the bottle a few inches from what you’re spraying.
- Use a light mist to avoid getting things too wet.
- Don’t spray it on polished wood or delicate surfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best dilution for essential oils?
The best dilution for essential oils depends on the application and the individual. For most topical applications, a 1-3% dilution is generally recommended. This means using 1-3 drops of essential oil per teaspoon (5ml) of carrier oil. Sensitive individuals, children, and the elderly should start with a lower dilution, such as 0.5-1% (1 drop per 10ml of carrier oil).
What is the ratio for essential oil body spray?
For a refreshing and aromatic body spray, a 1-2% dilution is typically ideal. This translates to approximately 6-12 drops of essential oil per ounce (30ml) of distilled water or hydrosol. Remember to use a solubilizer like Polysorbate 20 or alcohol to help the essential oils disperse evenly in the water. Without a solubilizer, the oils will separate and may cause skin irritation.
What is the ratio of essential oils to water for spraying?
The ratio of essential oils to water for spraying depends on the purpose of the spray. For general room freshening or linen sprays, a 0.5-1% dilution (3-6 drops per ounce of water) is sufficient. For cleaning sprays, you can increase the concentration slightly, but always be mindful of potential surface damage and test in an inconspicuous area first. Again, a solubilizer is crucial for ensuring proper dispersion and preventing skin irritation if the spray comes into contact with the body.
Summary
Making your own essential oil sprays is an easy and affordable way to freshen your home, boost your mood, or, for a more targeted approach, consider an Aromatherapy Associates roller ball to revive your morning.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different essential oil combinations to find the scents you love most. There’s a unique satisfaction in creating a healthy and naturally fragrant home environment.