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There’s nothing quite like walking into a home that instantly feels like the holidays—warm spices, fresh citrus and a hint of pine in the air. It’s the kind of cozy, inviting atmosphere that makes everything feel a little brighter. Enter the simmer pot: your new favorite way to fill your home with the scents of the season.
With just a few ingredients from your kitchen, you can fill your home with the scents of the season, creating a holiday vibe that makes every moment—from wrapping gifts to sharing meals—feel even more special.
Hungry for more? From candles to soaps and lotions, our selection of holiday fragrances will have you feeling holly jolly in no time!
A simmer pot is exactly what it sounds like—a pot of water filled with aromatic ingredients that simmers gently in a pot or saucepan on your stovetop or in a slow cooker. As it heats up, it releases the scents of the ingredients, turning your home into a fragrant wonderland.
Let’s face it: the holidays can be hectic.
Between shopping, decorating and hosting, finding ways to create a warm and welcoming home might feel like one more thing on the to-do list. But holiday simmer pots make it easy! They’re a low-effort, high-impact way to add festive cheer without breaking the bank. Plus, they’re all-natural, which means no synthetic chemicals or overpowering scents.
If you’re wondering how to make a holiday simmer pot, it’s easy. Just get a few basic ingredients and let them work their magic. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ready to transform your home into a holiday haven? Here’s how:
If you’re not sure where to start, here are some go-to blends that never fail to capture the holiday spirit:
You can also try experimenting with what you already have on hand:
There’s no wrong way to create a Christmas simmer pot. The beauty is in its simplicity and versatility—mix and match ingredients to suit your mood or experiment with new scents to discover your perfect holiday blend.
Whether you’re using up leftovers or crafting a signature scent, every simmer pot is a chance to add a personal touch to your holiday season.
Creating a holiday simmer pot is simple, but with a few tips, you can make it even more effective and enjoyable. Here’s how to get the most out of this cozy holiday tradition:
Start with the right pot
A medium-sized pot is ideal for stovetop simmer pots because it gives the ingredients plenty of room to release their aromas. If you want something that lasts longer, a slow cooker is a great choice. Just set it to the lowest heat setting to keep the smells going all day.
Keep an eye on the water
Since simmer pots rely on moisture to carry the scent, water tends to evaporate as it heats. Check your pot every hour or so and add more water as needed to keep the ingredients from sticking to the bottom or burning.
Layer your ingredients
For the best results, combine ingredients with different scent profiles—like bright citrus, warm spices and earthy herbs—to create a balanced and inviting aroma. You can also add a small splash of vanilla or almond extract to round out the scent with a touch of sweetness.
Reuse and refresh
Don’t toss out your simmer pot ingredients after one use. Most blends can be reused for up to two days if stored in the fridge overnight. To revive the scent, simply add fresh water and a pinch of new spices when you reheat it.
Play with temperature
Starting your simmer pot on a gentle boil helps to quickly release the fragrance. Once the scent fills the air, lower the heat to keep it going. If you want a stronger aroma, simmer the pot uncovered; for a more subtle effect, partially cover it with a lid.
Get creative with add-ins
Simmer pots are the perfect way to use up leftovers, like apple cores, citrus peels or herb trimmings. For a richer, more seasonal scent, try using a base like apple cider, cranberry juice or even a splash of wine instead of plain water.
Set the mood
Pair your simmer pot with soft lighting, cozy blankets or holiday music to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The scent will tie it all together, making your space feel even more magical.
Safety first
Always keep an eye on your simmer pot, especially if it’s on the stove. If you need to leave the room, turn off the heat until you return. Slow cookers are a safer choice if you plan to leave for longer, but make sure they’re on a heat-resistant surface and away from kids or pets.
Share the joy
Simmer pot blends make thoughtful and festive gifts. Layer dried or fresh ingredients in a jar, tie it with a ribbon and include a handwritten note with instructions. It’s a simple way to spread the holiday cheer.
Hungry for more? From candles to soaps and lotions, our selection of holiday fragrances will have you feeling holly jolly in no time!
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