As the cozy months settle in, so does the abundance of fall potpourri, wall plugins and, of course, candles. Though these aromatic masters are always ready to fill our homes with seasonal cheer, let’s face it: they aren’t for everyone. Whether you’re trying to live a low-tox lifestyle, have littles running around, or prefer to shirk scent-induced headaches– you need an alternative.
Narratives of old suggest simmer pots have been around since the 17th century, originally used as ways to cleanse the home. Perfect for hosting company or spending a quiet day in, simmer pots are not only toxin-free alternatives to artificial fragrances, but also offer a way for you to reduce waste from cooking and baking! Simply fill your vessel with water, add your aromatics, and let the magic happen. So, next time you’re whipping up something in the kitchen using citrus, herbs, or fruits, save the scraps and try one of these fool proof recipes.
Simmer Pots
Spicy Simmer
This mix is perfect for a productive day at home. Blending woody, sharp peppercorns with the sweetness of cinnamon and the bright profiles from lemon and rosemary make this “spicy simmer” simply delightful. It offers a clean, uplifting steam that is sure to put plenty of pep in your step.
Pro Tip: Not into the idea of leaving your stove on all day? No worries. Flip a mini slow cooker to low or leave a heat safe bowl or jar under a candle warmer with your hot water and aromatics. *Remember to monitor your water level throughout the day no matter which method you choose.*
Ingredients
- 1-2 tsp. peppercorns
- 1-2 cinnamon sticks
- 1-2 sliced lemons
- 1-2 sprigs of rosemary
Mulled Cider
In contrast to its zingy companion, “mulled cider” is nothing short of wrapping yourself in a fluffy blanket by the fire. The subtle floral notes of the apple, mellow sweetness from the orange, and blend of soft, warm spices from the aromatics and vanilla will have you craving a warm cup of autumn. This combo would be best enjoyed reading a good book with your favorite nosh.
Pro Tip: If whole cinnamon sticks, rosemary sprigs, etc. aren’t frequent fliers in your kitchen, a teaspoon or two of their dried and ground counterparts work just as well.
Ingredients
- 1 apple, sliced
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1-2 cinnamon sticks
- 1-2 tsp. cloves
- 1-2 tsp. star anise
- Splash of vanilla
Herby Citrus
“Herby Citrus” is perfect for any occasion. There’s a delicate balance between the bright, fruity acidity, rich spiciness, and herbal undertones that makes this combination inviting for any occasion. Both uplifting and grounding, guests are sure to ask what scent you’re burning.
Pro Tip: Save your scraps! Apple cores, squeezed lemons, and orange peels are just as fragrant and help reduce waste in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 sliced orange
- 1 sliced lemon
- 1 sliced apple
- 1-2 sprigs of rosemary
- 1-2 tsp clove
With the crisp autumn winds settling in, a home that welcomes you with cozy, clean autumnal scents is a must. Though we’ve given you a few starter recipes for your simmer pot journey, there’s one phrase we want to leave you with: when in doubt, try it out! Experiment the same way you do with seasonings in the kitchen, see what fills your home with the most joy, and let your simmer pot remind you of life’s simple pleasures.
Don’t let your fall vibes stop there, though, check out these simple and adorable DIY crafts.
Vintage Ghosts from Grandma’s Linens
If you’ve found yourself with some secondhand linens that you don’t have the heart to part with, well, same. We have a perfect upcycle idea for fall – take those tucked away linen doilies, give them some eyes, and drape them over unused candlesticks to create adorable ghosts with a vintage feel.
Instructions:
To bring these ghosts to life, gather old doilies, lace table runners, or a thin knit blankets. Place them over a base with a rounded top like a candlestick, small lamp base, or even an upside-down mason jar so the fabric drapes down like a ghost’s body. Cut two small ovals from black felt and glue them on as eyes, then spritz the fabric with starch if you’d like the shape to hold better. Line them up across your mantle or entry table, and suddenly you’ve got a haunted doily parade.
Spooky Tapered Candles
Tapered candlesticks are elegant, but swap the plain white tapers on the mantle for something a little more spooktacular this fall. These white tapered candles are easy to melt and manipulate into the cutest dancing ghosts to spruce up your mantle or tablescape this fall.
Instructions:
Start with plain white or cream tapered candlesticks. Fill a glass baking dish with very hot water (not boiling), then gently place the candlesticks inside. After 10-15 minutes, remove the candlesticks and bend into your desired shape. Add eyes and a mouth using black paint or a melted black crayon.
Pumpkin Wine Dispenser
While carved Jack-o-lanterns may bring joy on porches around the South each fall, bring one indoors and make it the life of the party. Forget the drink dispenser you have to store, and opt for a fun, seasonal version instead.
Instructions:
Choose a large pumpkin with a sturdy base, then slice a circular opening at the top. Scoop out the seeds and pulp, and carve a small hole near the bottom (quarter sized or slightly larger) for a wine spigot to poke through. Remove the bag from a box of wine (Trader Joe’s is our pick!), then place the bag inside the hollowed pumpkin, feeding the spout out of the carved hole. Now you have spooky servingware that’ll be the talk of the party.
