I gaze in horror at the tv ads for spray fresheners.

The lady of the house spritzes away like a madwoman then sticks her nose right in the middle of it and inhales deeply.  She goes after it all: sneakers, beds, clothes, everything. Why, I wonder, don’t they just clean the stinky things? If my bed emanated a palpable odor I think choosing the right deodorant spray would be the least of my concerns.

That said, I have a terrier (see above).  Dip him in a vat of peppermint and he’d smell like terrier two minutes later.  It has an effect on the vacuum cleaner bag, turning it into an odor dispersal system.  Not the ambiance I’m going for right before company shows up.

Baking soda and essential oil to the rescue.  I use the baking soda by itself with good results, but the essential oil is sort of a treat.  And if you have a terrier like mine it is almost a necessity.

Dry Freshener Recipe

2 cups baking soda

essential oil(s) of choice

With a fork, stir in your favorite essential oil by drops until your nose tells you it’s enough.  I use about a teaspoon or less.  It’s best to let the oils permeate for awhile before first use.

To use, sprinkle on carpeting and let it sit for a couple of hours or overnight then vacuum.

Oils such as peppermint, eucalyptus, and rosemary are invigorating and fresh. Lavender is soothing and floral.

Store in an empty shaker bottle such as a clean parmesan cheese container.

Bonus: This also makes a great scouring powder for sinks and tubs.  Then when you’ve finished cleaning house, sprinkle some into a nice hot bath.