Learn how to make a homemade laundry scent booster with clean ingredients! Say goodbye to harsh chemicals and hello to fresh, customizable scents for your laundry.

I used to love using store-bought laundry scent boosters—there was nothing better than pulling a load of freshly washed clothes out of the dryer and smelling that clean, strong scent.
But as I started paying more attention to the products I was using in my home, I realized those boosters were packed with synthetic fragrances and chemicals that weren’t exactly family- or eco-friendly.
It wasn’t an easy habit to break, but I knew I had to make a change.
That’s when I started experimenting with a homemade version, and I’m so excited to share this simple, clean alternative that keeps my laundry smelling amazing without any of the toxins!
Why choose a homemade laundry scent booster?
Switching to a homemade laundry scent booster is a game-changer for your laundry routine—and your health.
Store-bought boosters are often packed with synthetic fragrances, dyes, and chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin, trigger allergies, and even harm the environment.
By making your own, you can take control of what goes into your laundry products, ensuring they’re free of harsh toxins and safe for your whole family. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly option that allows you to customize scents to match your preferences, from calming lavender to invigorating citrus.
With just a few clean, natural ingredients, you can enjoy fresh, long-lasting scents without compromising your family’s well-being or your eco-friendly values.
Laundry Scent Booster Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make your own laundry scent booster:
- 2 cups Epsom salt
- 40-80 drops of essential oil (I like to use lemon)
Add the Epsom salts to a mixing bowl along with the essential oil drops and mix together with a wooden spoon.
Using a funnel or a scoop, pour the laundry scent booster into a glass Mason jar and screw the lid on top.
Alternatively, you can mix the laundry scent booster in the Mason jar directly. Add the Epsom salts and the essential oils and twist the lid on. Shake the jar to distribute the essential oils evenly.
Use up to 1/4 cup in each load and store for up to 12 months.
Laundry Scent Booster Uses

Here are some additional uses for a homemade laundry scent booster beyond freshening up your laundry:
- Carpet Deodorizer
- Sprinkle the scent booster on carpets and rugs, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, and vacuum it up to remove odors.
- Trash Can Freshener
- Add a small scoop to the bottom of your trash can or sprinkle some into the trash bag to combat unpleasant smells.
- Shoe Deodorizer
- Place a small amount in a breathable pouch or sock and tuck it into shoes to absorb odors overnight.
- Closet or Drawer Freshener
- Fill a small sachet or jar with the booster and place it in closets, drawers, or storage bins for a subtle, long-lasting scent.
- Mattress Refresher
- Sprinkle the booster on your mattress, let it sit for 20 minutes, then vacuum it off to keep your bed smelling clean and fresh.
- Pet Area Odor Eliminator
- Use it in pet areas, like bedding or litter box surroundings, to help neutralize smells (ensure it’s pet-safe first).
- DIY Air Freshener
- Fill a jar with the scent booster, cover it with breathable fabric, and place it in any room as a natural air freshener.
- Vacuum Cleaner Boost
- Add a small scoop to your vacuum cleaner bag or canister for a fresh aroma as you clean.
- Workout Gear Deodorizer
- Use it in gym bags, yoga mats, or other fitness equipment storage to keep odors at bay.
- Gift Idea
- Package it in a cute jar with a custom label, and gift it as a thoughtful, homemade present for friends or family.
Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Store-Bought

The large store-bought containers of scent booster can range from $14-$20 or about $0.50/ounce.
The homemade version costs about $1.34 to make which comes out to $0.08/ounce. It’s so much cheaper and better for you than the store-bought version!
FAQs
A laundry scent booster enhances the scent of your clothes and linens by adding a burst of fragrance during the wash cycle. It’s especially useful for keeping laundry smelling fresh longer.
Yes! Using clean, natural ingredients like baking soda and essential oils makes it a great option for sensitive skin. Avoid any essential oils that might cause irritation, and always do a patch test first.
Absolutely. The ingredients in a homemade scent booster dissolve easily and are safe for HE washers. Just add it directly to the drum with your laundry.
No, the ingredients dissolve completely in the wash, leaving no residue behind—just fresh-smelling clothes!
Some essential oils, like clove or cinnamon, can be overpowering or cause skin irritation. Stick to gentle options like lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus.
No, a scent booster is meant to add fragrance, not to soften clothes. If you want natural fabric softening, you can pair this with wool dryer balls or a vinegar rinse.
Want More?


If you liked this post, I know you’ll like these too:
Your Turn
What scent are you going to use first for your laundry booster? Let us know in the comments!