A COMPLETE GUIDE TO SIMMER POTS

There’s something deeply grounding about filling your home with the gentle steam of herbs, fruits, and spices. A simmer pot is a simple, natural way to scent your space without synthetic fragrances or harsh chemicals. Think of it as nature’s version of a candle — wholesome, soothing, and endlessly adaptable.

✨ What is a Simmer Pot?

A simmer pot is a blend of natural ingredients like citrus peels, herbs, and spices simmered in water on your stovetop (or slow cooker). As the water heats, the ingredients release their aroma, filling your home with a gentle fragrance.

Unlike candles or air fresheners, simmer pots are:

Completely natural — no synthetic fragrances.

Hydrating for the air — they add moisture back in as they steam.

Reusable — you can top up with water throughout the day.

Customizable — each pot is unique, based on the ingredients you have on hand.

 

🍊 How to Make a Basic Simmer Pot

Ingredients (base recipe):

1 citrus fruit (orange, lemon, or lime) – sliced or peeled

2–3 sprigs of fresh herbs (like rosemary, thyme, or mint)

2–3 whole spices (cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, or cardamom)

4 cups water

Instructions:

1. Fill a small pot with water.

2. Add your chosen ingredients.

3. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a low simmer.

4. As the water evaporates, top up with more water to keep the aroma flowing.

 

Tip: You can also use a slow cooker on the “low” setting for a hands-off approach.

🌿 Simmer Pot Recipes

Here are a few blends you can try at home:

1. Cozy Autumn Pot

Orange slices

2 cinnamon sticks

4 cloves

A sprinkle of nutmeg

This blend smells like warm spiced cider and is perfect for cooler days.

2. Calming Floral Pot

½ cup dried rose petals

1 tbsp dried lavender

Lemon peel

A splash of vanilla extract

A soothing mix that feels like bringing the garden indoors.

3. Fresh & Clean Pot

Lemon slices

2 sprigs of rosemary

1 tsp juniper berries (optional)

Bay leaf

Great for refreshing your home and clearing the air after cooking.

4. Festive Holiday Pot

Cranberries (a handful, fresh or frozen)

Orange peel

Cinnamon stick

Star anise

Perfect for creating a warm, cheerful atmosphere during gatherings.

💡 Extra Tips

Reuse: You can reuse a simmer pot blend for up to 2 days. Store cooled ingredients in the fridge overnight and re-simmer the next day.

Experiment: Mix and match what you have — apple cores, leftover herbs, even ginger peel. Nothing needs to go to waste.

Safety: Never leave a simmer pot unattended on the stove. Keep the heat low and check water levels regularly.

Presentation idea: For gifting, layer dried fruits, herbs, and spices in a jar with a tag explaining how to use it.

 

🌸 Why Choose Simmer Pots Over Candles?

While candles can create a cozy glow, many store-bought ones contain synthetic fragrances that don’t always support health. Simmer pots offer a safer, more natural option — with the added benefit of hydrating your home’s air and letting you use ingredients you already have on hand.