How to Make Your Room Smell Good With 12 Secrets From Serious Homemakers

There’s something so inviting about walking into a room that smells like it’s just been cleaned. It feels welcoming, calming, and sometimes even a bit luxurious. But let’s be real—keeping a room consistently smelling good can be a challenge. Life happens, whether it’s pets, kids, or just everyday living, and before you know it, your space might not smell as fresh as you’d like. But I’ve picked up some secrets from experts over the years, and in this article, I’ll teach you how to make your room smell good with 12 easy tips.

There’s a one-size-fits-all solution here. Different things work for different people and spaces. But if you’re like me and want a room that smells great without too much fuss, you’ll find these tips surprisingly easy to implement!

Get the Right Bedding

Let’s start with something I didn’t even realize was a problem until it was right in front of me—your bedding.

I used to wake up in the middle of the night feeling hot and sweaty, but it wasn’t until my sheets started smelling funky that I really took notice. If you’re a hot sleeper like me, those night sweats can quickly turn your bed into a not-so-pleasant-smelling space, even if you wash your sheets regularly.

Moisture-wicking, quick-drying bedding, especially in the warmer months, is a great solution for this. It might seem like a small thing, but the right sheets can make a huge difference in how your room smells. Also, set the temperature of your room slightly lower at night to keep the night sweats at bay. You’ll sleep better, and your room will stay fresher for longer.

Related: Best Cooling Sheets for Hot Sleepers

Don’t Skip the Mattress Protector

This is one of those things that I didn’t even know existed until a few years ago, and now I can’t imagine living without it.

If you deal with night sweats or have pets who think your bed is their bed, a mattress protector is an absolute must. It acts as a barrier, preventing sweat, pet hair, and who-knows-what-else from seeping into your mattress. And trust me, once those smells get into the mattress, they’re tough to get out!

A mattress protector can save you from that headache, and it’s one of the easiest ways to keep your bed (and, by extension, your room) smelling clean.

The Baking Soda on Mattress Hack

Even with a mattress protector, there are times when your mattress might start to smell a little… off. This can happen especially during humid months when your mattress absorbs more moisture than usual, making it a perfect breeding ground for bacteria.

A simple, effective hack to combat this is to sprinkle baking soda all over your mattress. Spread it evenly and let it sit for a few hours—maybe while you’re doing other chores around the house. Afterward, just vacuum it up. The baking soda absorbs moisture and odors, leaving your mattress and your room smelling fresh again.

Dryer or Scented Sheets in Pillowcases

This is one of my absolute favorite tricks. If you’ve got scented dryer sheets lying around, stick one inside each of your pillowcases. Trust me, it makes your bed smell freshly laundered every time you lie down. You can even sneak a few under your sheets for an extra boost.

If you don’t have dryer sheets on hand, a dried wet wipe with a few drops of your favorite essential oil works just as well. It’s a small touch, but it makes a big difference in how your room smells.

Air Out Your Room Regularly

I can’t stress this one enough—airing out your room is essential. It’s probably the easiest and most effective way to refresh your space.

Open those windows and let the fresh air in, even if it’s just for a few minutes. It helps push out any stale odors and brings in a nice, clean breeze. And don’t let cold weather stop you. Even a small crack in the window can make a big difference. It’s a simple habit that goes a long way in keeping your room smelling great.

Keep Dirty Dishes and Trash Out of Your Room

I’m guilty of this one too—leaving dirty dishes and takeout containers lying around the room. But the truth is, nothing makes a room smell worse than old food and trash. Not only does it attract bad odors, but it also invites bugs and pests, which is a whole other problem you don’t want to deal with.

The simple fix? Just take the trash out regularly. It’s a small habit that can save you a lot of trouble down the line. Plus, your room will smell a whole lot better without that lingering stench of yesterday’s dinner.

Invest in a Trash Can with a Lid

Speaking of trash, here’s another game-changer—get a trash can with a lid. I keep two in my master bedroom for easy access, and I’m telling you, it makes a world of difference. The lid contains all those nasty odors and keeps them from spreading throughout the room.

And here’s a little expert hack for you: spritz a bit of perfume or room spray into the trash can before you put in a fresh liner. It’s a surprisingly effective way to keep your room smelling nice, and it adds a little extra freshness where you’d least expect it.

Keep Humidity Levels in Check

Humidity can be a sneaky culprit when it comes to making your room smell musty. If the humidity in your room goes above 60%, you’re likely to notice that your upholstery and rugs start to feel damp and smell funky.

The best way to stay on top of this is to get a hygrometer and keep an eye on the moisture levels. If you live in a humid area, investing in a dehumidifier is a good idea. Yes, they can use a bit more energy, but it’s worth it to keep your room feeling dry and fresh.

For smaller spaces like bathrooms and closets, moisture absorbers are a cheaper alternative, and they do a decent job of keeping dampness at bay.

Scented Candles Done Right

Who doesn’t love a good scented candle? They’re a classic for a reason. But the trick is to go for subtle scents that make your room smell fresh without overwhelming your senses.

I’ve learned that it’s easy to get carried away with strong scents, especially during fall and winter. Instead, I opt for more understated scents that create a cozy atmosphere without being too much.

You don’t even need to have your candles lit all the time. A candle warmer on a low setting can help the scent linger longer without the risk of an open flame. It’s a safer, more efficient way to keep your room smelling lovely.

Essential Oils and Diffusers

I love the look and feel of a good reed diffuser, but they can be a bit high-maintenance. The oil dries out too quickly, and buying refills can get expensive. A great alternative is to use an essential oil diffuser instead. It’s more cost-effective, and you can mix and match your favorite scents.

If you’re set on using a reed diffuser, here’s a little trick: fill the diffuser jar with scented oil instead of regular diffuser liquid. It lasts much longer, and you can always add a few drops of essential oil when the scent starts to fade. It’s a simple way to keep your room smelling nice without constantly having to buy new products.

Related: Best Diffusers for Essential Oils

Clean Your Rugs and Upholstery Regularly

Your rugs and upholstery can trap a lot of dirt and odors, especially if you have pets. It’s easy to overlook these areas, but trust me, once you start cleaning them regularly, you’ll notice a huge difference in how your room smells.

I like to use my Bissell Little Green to tackle everything from my fabric headboard to the area rugs. It doesn’t take long, and the results are well worth the effort. A clean rug or couch not only looks better but smells better too, making your whole room feel fresher.

Related: Best Upholstery Cleaners to Keep Your Home Spotless

Invest in an Air Purifier

Finally, let’s talk about air purifiers. These devices are a real lifesaver, especially in the colder months when you can’t open a window or run the air conditioner.

I keep mine running on a low setting throughout the day, and it makes a noticeable difference in how the air feels and smells. Just remember to clean and replace the filter regularly, as it can collect a lot of dust over time. An air purifier might not seem like a big deal, but once you start using one, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Related: Best Air Purifiers for Every Room in Your Home