Epsom Salt Potpourri: A Simple, Natural Way to Freshen Your Home
- Astrid van Essen
- Mar 28
- 5 min read
I’ve always loved discovering new ways to make my home smell amazing. There’s something special about walking into a space that smells fresh, inviting, and uniquely you. Over the past few months, I’ve shared a few of my favourite ideas for natural home fragrances here on the blog—and today, I’m excited to introduce you to one of the simplest (and prettiest) options yet: Epsom salt potpourri.
It’s quick to make, customisable, and a lovely alternative to synthetic air fresheners. Whether you want to add a calming scent to your bedroom, freshen up your bathroom, or give a thoughtful handmade gift, this DIY potpourri ticks all the boxeIf you’re looking for a natural air freshener that’s beautiful, customisable, and easy to make, Epsom salt potpourri might just become your new favourite home fragrance idea.
With its delicate crystal-like texture and ability to absorb and diffuse essential oils, Epsom salt is the perfect base for creating your DIY potpourri.
At BotanicalBlueprint, we love using natural ingredients to create warming, seasonal scents—and Epsom salt potpourri is a brilliant way to do just that.
What is Epsom Salt Potpourri?
Unlike traditional potpourri made solely from dried botanicals, Epsom salt potpourri uses coarse magnesium sulfate crystals (Epsom salt) as a base. These crystals hold and release essential oils over time, offering a gentle, long-lasting fragrance. Combined with dried flowers, herbs, spices, and even natural colourants, this potpourri is as much a visual treat as it is fragrant.
Why You’ll Love It
All-natural fragrance: No harsh chemicals or artificial scents
Customisable: Choose essential oils and botanicals to suit the season or your mood
Budget-friendly: Made from easy-to-find ingredients
Decorative: Looks beautiful in a jar, bowl, or even fabric sachets
Easy to refresh: Just add a few drops of oil to revive the scent
Whether you want to freshen your bathroom, scent your bedside table, or add a calming touch to your living room, Epsom salt potpourri is stylish and sustainable.
How to Make Epsom Salt Potpourri
Here’s a simple step-by-step method to create your homemade potpourri using Epsom salt.
You’ll need:
1 cup of Epsom salt
10–15 drops of essential oil(s)
Dried flowers or botanicals (e.g. rose petals, lavender, citrus peel)
Optional: Food colouring or mica powder for colour
A bowl or glass jar for display
Method:
In a mixing bowl, combine the Epsom salt and essential oils. Stir well to distribute the fragrance.
If using colour, add a small amount of food colouring or mica and mix until evenly tinted.
Fold in your dried botanicals and stir gently to combine.
Transfer the mixture into your chosen container.
Allow it to sit for 24 hours to fully absorb the scent before using.
Fragrance Combinations to Try
Want some inspiration? Try these popular essential oil blends:
Seasonal Favourites:
Spring: Lavender + Lemon + Chamomile
Summer: Peppermint + Lime + Basil
Autumn: Orange + Clove + Cinnamon
Winter: Pine + Frankincense + Vanilla
Mood Boosters:
Relaxation: Lavender + Bergamot
Energy: Grapefruit + Rosemary + Mint
Focus: Lemon + Eucalyptus + Sage
Where and How to Use It
Display in open bowls in the bathroom, bedroom, or hallway
Add to organza sachets and tuck into drawers or wardrobes
Use as a gift or favour for weddings, birthdays, or housewarmings
Add a few more drops of essential oil to refresh the scent and stir gently.
Style Tip: Display in a Concrete Bowl
One of my favourite ways to display Epsom salt potpourri is in a handmade concrete bowl. The soft, crystalline texture of the salt looks beautiful against the raw, natural finish of concrete, adding a minimalist, modern touch to any room. It’s a simple way to elevate your home fragrance into a stylish decor piece. At the Botanical Blueprint, I create small-batch concrete home décor, including bowls and trays that pair perfectly with natural creations like this. Pop over and browse if you’re after something handcrafted and unique to showcase your potpourri!
Note: Epsom salt potpourri is not designed for bath use and could be unsafe! However, you can make a simple, skin-safe Epsom Salt Bath Soak Recipe at home with a few simple adjustments. It’s perfect for relaxing, easing muscle tension, and safely enjoying your favourite essential oils.
DIY Epsom Salt Bath Soak Recipe (Skin-Safe)
Ingredients:
2 cups Epsom salt
½ cup baking soda (optional – softens skin and soothes irritation)
10–15 drops skin-safe essential oils (see blends below)
Optional: ¼ cup dried botanicals (lavender buds, chamomile, or rose petals)
Optional: 1 tablespoon carrier oil (e.g. sweet almond, jojoba, or coconut oil) to dilute the essential oils
Jar or airtight container for storage
Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, combine Epsom salt and baking soda.
In a separate small bowl, mix essential oils with your carrier oil.
Pour the oil blend into the salts and stir thoroughly to distribute the fragrance.
If using dried flowers, mix them in gently.
Store in an airtight jar and use within 1–2 months for best scent and quality.
To Use:
Add ½ to 1 cup of the bath soak to warm running water. Soak for 20–30 minutes and relax!
Eco-Friendly and Handmade Gifting
This DIY potpourri makes a lovely handmade gift. Present it in a pretty jar or tin, add a ribbon and a personalised label, and you have a thoughtful, fragrant gift for any occasion.
Pair it with one of our Simmerpot Sachets or a seasonal recipe blend for a complete sensory gift bundle.
In Summary
Epsom salt potpourri is a simple, sustainable way to add a natural fragrance to your home. It’s an ideal craft for a cosy weekend or a fun DIY gift idea—and the best part? You can completely tailor it to your favourite scents and style.
Try it Yourself!
Want to get started? Download our printable recipe card below and mix your own Epsom salt potpourri today.
Frequently Asked Questions about Epsom Salt Potpourri
1. How long does Epsom salt potpourri last?
Epsom salt potpourri can hold its scent for 2–4 weeks, depending on the essential oils used and how it's stored. Add a few more drops of essential oil and stir gently to refresh it.
2. Can I use Epsom salt potpourri in the bath?
No, this version isn’t intended for use in the bath. Some essential oils and added botanicals may not be skin-safe or could clog drains. If you’d like something for bathing, check out my recipe for a skin-safe Epsom salt bath soak instead.
3. Do I need to use food colouring or mica powder?
Not at all! The colouring is purely decorative. If you prefer a more natural look or are concerned about a mess, skip it and enjoy the full fragrance.
4. Where is the best place to keep Epsom salt potpourri?
It’s perfect for small spaces like bedrooms, bathrooms, entryways, or wardrobes. To preserve the scent, keep it in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight.
5. Can I give this as a gift?
Absolutely! Epsom salt potpourri makes a beautiful handmade gift. Present it in a glass jar or a handmade concrete bowl (like the ones I create at Botanical Blueprint) and add a personalised tag for a thoughtful finishing touch.
Comments