The History & Benefits of Simmer Pots – Natural Fragrance for Your Home

There’s something undeniably comforting about the gentle scent of herbs and spices drifting through your home. Simmer pots—those humble, bubbling fruit, spice, and botanical blends—have been used for centuries to do just that. But where did this lovely tradition begin, and why have people cherished it for so long?

Let’s explore the history, benefits, and fun facts that make simmer pots such a charming ritual to revive.

Where Did Simmer Pots Come From?

Simmer pots, sometimes called stovetop potpourri or homemade potpourri, have their roots in centuries-old domestic life. Before plug-in diffusers and fancy sprays, people would simmer fragrant ingredients in water to naturally scent their homes.

This wasn’t just a one-culture wonder—people all over the world did it in their way:

Europe: In countries like France and Germany, herbs such as lavender, rosemary, and bay were commonly simmered to freshen the air and lift the mood—especially during long winters.
North America: Indigenous communities used native plants like cedar, sage, and pine, often as part of spiritual or cleansing rituals.
Middle East & Asia: Citrus peels, cardamom, rose petals, and cinnamon were boiled in water to release soothing aromas with healing properties.

Simmer pot ingredients: Citrus peels, cardamom, rose petals, and cinnamon

It was a natural, everyday practice—part practical, part ritual.

Why Were Simmer Pots Used?

While they smell wonderful, simmer pots weren’t just for show. Here are some of the reasons they became a household staple:

1. Natural Air Freshener

A simple, chemical-free way to scent the home. The warm steam gently fills the space with fragrance—no aerosols, no toxins, just plants doing their thing.

2. Mood-Boosting Properties

Citrus energises, lavender calms, clove comforts—each ingredient adds more than just scent. People instinctively reach for botanicals that lift their spirits and soothe the senses.

3. Adds Moisture to Dry Air

Especially in winter, when fires or heating systems dry out the air, a simmer pot acts as a natural humidifier, helping to ease dry skin and scratchy throats.

4. Cleansing Energy

Many believed certain herbs helped clear out "bad energy" or brought luck and protection. Rosemary and bay leaves, for example, were thought to purify the home and protect it from illness.

5. A Thrifty Tradition

No waste here! Old spices, overripe fruit, herb clippings—nothing was binned if it could be simmered. A perfect way to make the most of what you already have in your kitchen or garden.

Looking for eco-friendly home scent ideas? A simmer pot is a beautiful place to start.

Fun Facts & Lovely Little Anecdotes

Want to fall in love with simmer pots even more? Here are a few delightful tidbits:

Pot Pourri

The word potpourri comes from the French term “potpourri,” which means “rotten pot.” But don’t let that put you off! It originally referred to a stew of mixed ingredients and later described a blend of dried flowers, herbs, and spices used to scent a room.

In a nutshell:

Potpourri is a mix of natural, fragrant botanicals—like petals, spices, and citrus—used to perfume a room. It can be dry (like in bowls) or wet (like in a simmer pot).

Bathhouse Vibes

In ancient Roman and Turkish bathhouses, fragrant herbs were often simmered to create a luxurious, spa-like steam. It wasn’t just about hygiene—it was about soul-deep relaxation.

A Touch of Magic

In old European folklore, simmering herbs like bay or thyme were believed to drive away evil spirits. A pinch of salt in the pot was said to bring good luck and protect the home.

Wartime Wisdom

During World War II, when perfumes were scarce, families simmered peels and garden herbs to bring comfort and joy to their homes. It became a quiet, nostalgic ritual in hard times.

Victorian Mood-Setting

Before scented candles, it was all about the simmer pot. In Victorian times, if a home was filled with the scent of clove, cinnamon, or orange, it was a clear sign guests were welcome and the kettle was probably on.

Southern Charm

In the American South, it was common to save breakfast orange peels and toss them into a simmer pot later in the day. Not just eco-friendly—this simple act turned ordinary mornings into a little moment of daily magic.

Simmer Pot Benefits: A Ritual Worth Keeping

In a world that often moves too fast, simmer pots remind us to slow down. They’re a simple, sensory pleasure—a quiet moment of care for your home and yourself.

Whether you’re setting the mood for a cosy evening, refreshing the house before guests arrive, or just using up bits from the fruit bowl, a simmer pot is a tradition worth reviving.

So save those peels and herbs next time you chop citrus or brew tea. Your home—and your soul—will thank you.

Simmer Pot FAQs

What is a simmer pot? It is a mix of water, herbs, spices, and fruit peels gently heated on the hob to release natural fragrance into the air.
What are the best simmer pot ingredients? Citrus peels, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, rosemary, lavender, and bay leaves are all brilliant choices.
How long should I simmer it for? Let it bubble gently on the hob for 1–3 hours, topping up with water as needed.
Can I reuse the ingredients? Yes! Just pop it in the fridge overnight and reheat the next day—usually good for 2–3 uses.
Is a simmer pot safe to leave unattended? Never leave it on the hob without checking regularly. Keep the heat low and make sure there’s always enough water in the pot.
Is a simmer pot safe for pets? It depends on the ingredients. Some simmer pot staples like cinnamon and citrus can irritate pets, especially cats. Always check what’s safe for your pets and keep the pot out of reach.
Can you drink from a simmer pot? No, simmer pots are for scent only. While the ingredients might seem edible, the blends are not intended for consumption and may include non-food-safe parts like dried decorative botanicals.