6 Simmer Pot Recipes That’ll Make Your Home Smell Like Summer

Scents have a strong link to emotions and memories. You can use this powerful connection to create a warm and happy mood in your home—especially when you’re having guests over.
I love hosting during the summer, and I always want my house to feel cozy and inviting. That’s why I use a summer simmer pot. It’s an easy, affordable way to make your home smell amazing. These natural home fragrance ideas not only freshen the air but also bring back happy summer memories.

Try these six summer simmer pot recipes. Start by boiling 8 cups of water in a pot, then reduce the heat to simmer and add your ingredients.
1. Lemon and Rosemary Simmer Pot
If you’ve ever walked into a Williams Sonoma store and loved the smell, this is the scent you’re thinking of! This all-natural air freshener is perfect whether you’re expecting visitors or just want your home to smell clean and fresh every day.
The combination of lemon and rosemary is not only uplifting but also offers health benefits. Rosemary is known for its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help boost your immune system and support better blood circulation.
What You’ll Need:
- 2 lemons, sliced
- A handful of fresh or dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
Just let it simmer on low heat and enjoy the refreshing scent that makes your house feel welcoming and healthy.
2. Mint and Lime Simmer Pot
Looking for a natural way to feel more awake and make your home smell fresh? This mint and lime simmer pot is the perfect solution. The refreshing scent will lift your mood and energize your space.

Mint is especially helpful if you have allergies, and both mint and lime offer immune-boosting benefits. Add a bit of ginger for a clean, spicy aroma that supports your overall wellness.
What You’ll Need:
- 6 fresh mint sprigs
- 2 limes, sliced
- A 3-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced
Let this blend simmer to create a clean, invigorating atmosphere that supports your health naturally.
3. Grapefruit and Lavender Simmer Pot
This soothing blend is perfect when you want to relax without feeling too sleepy. Lavender is well-known for its natural stress relief and calming effects, making it great for reducing anxiety.
The bright citrus scent from grapefruit lifts your mood and adds the perfect balance. This is a great choice for peaceful evenings or whenever you need a moment of calm.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 grapefruit, sliced
- A handful of fresh or dried lavender
- A dash of vanilla extract
Simmer this mix gently and fill your home with a calming, spa-like scent that helps you feel relaxed and refreshed.
4. Citrus and Mint Simmer Pot
Want your home to smell like a summer garden party? This citrus and mint simmer pot brings that fresh, happy vibe right into your space. Oranges, lemons, and tangelos create a sweet, zesty scent that feels like pure sunshine.

The tangelo adds a slightly floral twist, while the mint keeps everything fresh and cool. This is the perfect natural air freshener to boost your mood and brighten up any room.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 tangelo, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- A few sprigs of fresh mint
Simmer this cheerful blend and enjoy a clean, energizing scent that lifts your spirits all day.
5. Rose and Rosemary Simmer Pot
Don’t toss out your old or dried flowers—they still hold a beautiful scent! This simmer pot is a great way to reuse dried roses and enjoy a soft, sweet floral aroma.
The rose petals fill the air with a deep, romantic scent, while rosemary adds a fresh, herbal touch that feels clean and calming. It’s a simple and natural floral air freshener that’s perfect for quiet afternoons or setting a peaceful mood at home.
What You’ll Need:
- A handful of fresh or dried rose petals
- A few sprigs of fresh rosemary
Simmer slowly and let your home be filled with a soothing, elegant scent that helps you relax.
6. Lemongrass and Daisy Simmer Pot
Bring the joy of a sunny day indoors with this cheerful and refreshing simmer pot. Lemongrass gives off a crisp, lemony scent that’s both clean and energizing.

Daisies add a soft, gentle floral fragrance that feels like a walk through a blooming garden. This natural blend is perfect for lifting your mood and making your space feel light, fresh, and full of life.
What You’ll Need:
- A few stalks of fresh lemongrass (or 3–4 drops of lemongrass essential oil)
- A handful of fresh or dried daisy petals
Let it simmer gently and enjoy an uplifting home fragrance that can last for hours or even days. Just keep adding water every 1–2 hours to maintain the scent and prevent the pot from drying out. As a bonus, it acts like a natural humidifier—helping to add moisture to dry, air-conditioned rooms in summer.
Tip: There are no strict rules for simmer pots. Feel free to mix your favorite ingredients and create a signature summer scent that makes your home feel happy and welcoming.