I don’t know about you, but there was a time when I’d pull clean laundry out of the dryer and it just didn’t smell like anything. Not a bad smell, just, like nothing.

And after growing up with those super strong laundry scents, it felt like something was missing. But every time I looked at conventional fabric sprays or scent boosters, I just couldn’t get past the ingredients.

That’s kind of how this DIY fabric refresher recipe came to be. I wanted something that made my clothes (and honestly my couch and carpets too) smell fresh, but without all the harsh chemicals. After a lot of trial and error, this homemade fabric spray is one I make all the time now!

And the good news is, it’s actually really simple! Here is my homemade Febreze recipe that is natural and smells great!

Want more DIY cleaning recipes that use essential oils? Check out this recipe book!

Why Make Your Own Fabric Refresher?

There are a few reasons I keep coming back to this DIY fabric spray instead of buying something from the store:

It’s budget-friendly: Those fabric sprays add up fast, especially if you use them often! This costs just a fraction to make, and one batch lasts quite a while, unless your kids like it too much!
You control what goes in it: This is probably the biggest one for me. No mystery fragrances, no ingredients you can’t pronounce! Just simple, familiar ingredients. One of the biggest reasons why I make this natural product.
It’s gentler on your body: A lot of conventional sprays can trigger headaches or irritation. Regular laundry detergent did this to me. This is a much lighter option, especially if you’re trying to reduce toxins in your home!
It still works: That was really important to me. I didn’t want something “natural” that didn’t actually do anything. This one helps neutralize odors and leaves everything smelling fresh!

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DIY Fabric Refresher Recipe

You don’t need anything fancy for this:

Ingredients

Glass Spray Bottle
1/4 Cup Rubbing Alcohol
2 Tablespoons Baking Soda
About 1 1/2 Cups Water
30 Drops of Lavender Essential Oil

Instructions

Pour the rubbing alcohol into the glass spray bottle.

Next pour 2 tablespoons of baking soda into the spray bottle.

The mixture will fizz a little and that’s normal.

Add in your drops of lavender essential oil (you can use another scent, I prefer this for my clothes).

Next fill the rest of the bottle with water. You might have to mix it up or shake it to combine all the ingredients.

Notes

Here are some tips to making this DIY fabric refresher without vinegar:

You can use any essential oil you prefer. Sometimes I like the calming scent of lavender, but lately, I actually really love using citronella. I know it sounds weird, but just try it; you’ll be hooked like me! Eucalyptus, peppermint, or lemon essential oil are some of our favorite scents too!
If using around kids, make sure you use kid-safe oils. Same goes for pets!
You’ll probably have to shake it before using to make sure everything is combined and so it works properly. If your nozzle clogs, strain or shake more thoroughly.
Don’t plan on using your clothes freshener spray right away. You will want the baking soda to dissolve a bit before spraying. If you use it right away, it might get the nozzle clogged.
Store at room temperature. Shelf life is about 1-2 months typically.
Always test on a small area first for delicate fabrics.

Ways to Use Homemade Fabric Refresher Spray

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is.

On your couch and upholstery: This is probably where I use it the most! It’s perfect for freshening things up between deep cleans. I also will spray this before having company too! Curtains are a great spot for it 🙂
On bedding: A light spray on sheets and pillows makes everything feel extra cozy at night. It’s especially nice if you’re using calming oils like lavender.
In closets and drawers: Great for keeping your linen fresh, especially clothes that have been sitting for a while.
On carpets and rugs: Just a light mist can help with stale smells. Let it air dry and spot test first!
In the car: We use this all the time in the car, especially after snacks or long trips. It makes such a difference!

If you loved this recipe, you’ll want to check out this recipe book full of DIY cleaning recipes!

DIY Fabric Refresher

Materials

Glass Spray Bottle
1/4 Cup Rubbing Alcohol
2 Tablespoons Baking Soda
About 1 1/2 Cups Water
30 Drops of Lavender Essential Oil

Instructions

Pour the rubbing alcohol into the glass spray bottle.
Next pour 2 tablespoons of baking soda into the spray bottle.
The mixture will fizz a little and that’s normal.
Add in your drops of lavender essential oil (you can use another scent, I prefer this for my clothes).
Next fill the rest of the bottle with water. You might have to mix it up or shake it to combine all the ingredients.

Notes

You can use any essential oil you prefer. Sometimes I like the calming scent of lavender, but lately, I actually really love using citronella. I know it sounds weird, but just try it; you'll be hooked like me!
You'll probably have to shake it before using to make sure everything is combined and so it works properly.
Don't plan on using your clothes freshener spray right away. You will want the baking soda to dissolve a bit before spraying. If you use it right away, it might get the nozzle clogged.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been trying to switch to more natural products but feel like things just aren’t working as well, this DIY fabric refresher spray is such a good place to start!

It’s simple, it’s affordable, and it actually works!

You don’t need to rely on a store for every single product in your home. Herbs and simple ingredients really are amazing that way 🙂

Let me know if you end up making it!