6 Surprising Ways to Use Scents at Home, According to a Fragrance Expert

Want to elevate your home fragrance? We consulted Kristen Pumphrey, co-founder of P.F. Candle Co., for her creative ideas on incorporating scent into your home and beyond. Her top advice? Before adding any fragrance, eliminate unpleasant odors to create a clean slate. 'Be sure to open your windows daily,' she suggests. 'Martha Stewart swears by this, no matter the weather, and who am I to argue with Martha? Fresh air clears out stale smells and refreshes your home’s scent.' Keep reading for more expert tips on maintaining a fresh-smelling space.

Creative Ways to Use Scents Throughout Your Home

Eliminate Odors and Refresh Your Space

Expecting company? Don’t forget to eliminate any unwanted odors. 'A pleasant-smelling home is just as much about removing bad scents as it is about adding fresh ones,' says Kristen Pumphrey. 'My pre-guest routine is simple: clean the toilets and take out the trash.' She also suggests spritzing your trash can with a room spray for an extra boost of freshness.

Give Incense a Chance

While candles and diffusers are Pumphrey’s go-to choices, she also encourages trying incense—not the strong, pungent kind you might be imagining. Modern incense comes in a variety of forms, making it easier to burn. She particularly loves incense as a quick and effective way to freshen up your home right before guests arrive. 'If you don’t have an incense holder, just fill an old jar with sand or something similar to use as a makeshift holder,' she advises.

Pair Scents Thoughtfully with Your Meals

When enjoying a meal, Pumphrey recommends using subtle or neutral scents to avoid overpowering the aroma of your food. 'Gourmand or balsamic scents—think fruity notes like fig or persimmon—pair well with food without detracting from your culinary efforts,' she says. 'For those who enjoy DIY, the beeswax taper candles I use every night are easy and calming to make.' (You can find a DIY beeswax taper candles project in the book, At Home With Fragrance, by Pumphrey and P.F. Candle Co. co-founder Thomas Neuberger.)

Make the Most of Simmer Pots All Year Long

Though simmer pots are often associated with the holidays, Pumphrey believes you can enjoy them any time of year, especially to use up herbs or citrus that might otherwise go to waste. 'My favorite combo: citrus slices (lemon or orange), rosemary, and spices like coriander or cardamom,' she shares. 'Just throw everything in a small pot, cover with water, and simmer for hours. Be sure to check the pot occasionally to ensure it doesn’t run dry!'

Consider Car Fragrances (Yes, Really)

This might sound surprising, but car fragrances have evolved significantly. Brands like D.S. and Durga, as well as Diptyque, now offer chic alternatives to the traditional air fresheners, and Pumphrey has found a way to use them outside of the car. 'I love using them in smaller spaces, and they’re compact enough to fit in the tightest carry-on bag,' she explains. 'I travel with our Ojai Lavender car fragrance to carry a little piece of home with me.'

Revitalize Your Closet with Fragrance

Another clever use for car air fresheners? Your closet. 'It may seem unusual to add fragrance there, but it’s such a pleasant surprise because your clothes absorb the scent,' explains Pumphrey. She mentions she prefers this method since she’s not fond of strong-scented detergents. She's also a fan of wax tablets from Santa Maria Novella, which smell 'luxurious and expensive' and leave a long-lasting fragrance on her clothes.