After thousands of cleanings, here’s a simple truth: if your home smells clean, it feels clean. That’s why this baking-soda-plus-essential-oil hack is right up our alley… with one big caveat: it’s a scent booster, not a cleaner or disinfectant.
Why we like it (sometimes)
The upside
-
Cheap & fast. Two ingredients. Zero fuss.
-
Custom scents. Roll your own vibe (cozy cinnamon today, crisp cedar tomorrow).
-
Low residue. Used lightly, it lifts out clean with a thorough vacuum.
-
Fewer synthetics. No overpowering plug-ins or heavy sprays.
The limits
-
It doesn’t clean. Baking soda helps deodorize; oils add fragrance. You’ll still need real cleaning for grime and real disinfecting for germs.
-
Scent is temporary. Expect a nice lift—not a forever fix.
Important risks & safety notes
-
Staining risk (undiluted oils). Avoid delicate or absorbent fibers like silk, wool, velvet/velveteen, leather, suede, viscose/rayon, acetate, and antique or dry-clean-only rugs and upholstery. Always patch test a hidden spot first.
-
Kids & pets. Some oils (tea tree, clove, cinnamon, eucalyptus, etc.) can irritate sensitive lungs/skin and may be problematic for pets. When in doubt: skip the oils or choose very mild citrus/cedar at low amounts, keep rooms ventilated, and never apply to pet bedding.
-
Vacuum filters. Too much powder can cake filters. Sprinkle lightly and empty the canister + clean the filter after.
What you’ll need
- 1 cup baking soda (classic Arm & Hammer works great)
- 15–20 drops essential oil total (see fall blends below)
- A glass jar with lid + a shaker top or fine mesh sieve
- Upholstery/crevice tools for your vacuum
How to make it (step-by-step)
- Add 1 cup baking soda to a jar.
- Drop in 15–20 drops of essential oil. (Start light; you can always add more next batch.)
- Stir well to distribute.
- Cap and rest 2–3 hours so the scent infuses the soda.
- Lightly shake over carpets, rugs, mattresses, sofas, curtains (avoid the “do nots” above).
- Let sit 15–30 minutes (longer sit = more deodorizing).
- Vacuum thoroughly, slow overlapping passes. Then empty the canister.
Pro tip: For mattresses/upholstery, use your vacuum’s upholstery tool and go slow. For curtains, dust very lightly and vacuum on low suction.
Quick fall scent ideas (mix & match)
-
Cinnamon Orange: 8 drops sweet orange, 4 drops cinnamon bark, 3 drops clove
-
Cedar Spice: 8 drops cedarwood, 4 drops clove, 3 drops orange
-
Chai-ish: 6 drops cardamom, 5 drops cinnamon leaf, 4 drops vanilla oleoresin (or benzoin), 2 drops ginger
-
Mellow Citrus (kid/pet-friendlier profile—still use sparingly): 10 drops sweet orange, 4 drops cedarwood, 2 drops lemon
Note: Cinnamon/clove are potent and can be irritating—use fewer drops, or swap in milder oils.
Where it works best
-
Great for: most synthetic carpets/rugs, sturdy upholstery, and mattresses.
-
Skip/avoid: leather, suede, silk, wool, velvet/velveteen, viscose/rayon, acetate, antique textiles, anything labeled dry-clean only, and non-vacuumable surfaces.
FAQs
Does this replace cleaning?
Nope. It’s a finishing touch for scent and light deodorizing. For actual soil, use proper cleaning methods; for germs, use surface-safe disinfectants as directed.
How often can I do this?
As a scent booster, weekly or as needed. If you notice powder buildup or a muted vacuum, back off and clean your filters.
What if I want true odor removal?
Odors usually mean source + residue. A deep clean (carpets, upholstery, hard surfaces) and improved ventilation beat perfumes every time.
Ready for that fresh-home feeling (scent and shine)? Get your home cleaned today with Tidy Casa, we’ll make it easy. Or to learn more about Tidy Casa here.