By Cathy Hobbs
From Tribune News Service

Homes have a scent—only sometimes intentionally. Depending on the situation, they can attract or repel. Appealing to the senses, specifically a sense of smell, can be easily achieved, especially for those looking to do so naturally.

Looking for ways to infuse scents into your home? Here are some top Design Recipes tips.

1. Consider herbs. From sage to lavender, many herbs can provide an appealing scent.

2. Look for pure natural oils. Pure scents without added chemicals are the most powerful.

3. Head to the health food store. Typically these specialty stores haves aisles full of natural, enticing scents.

4. Open a window. A home needs to be aired out on a regular basis.

5. Add greenery. Plants and trees are not only attractive, they can also help to improve the air quality and oxygen levels in a home.

6. Go organic. Chemically enhanced plug-ins and fresheners seldom emit a natural scent.

7. Consider fruits. Fresh lemons and limes can help infuse a crisp, citrus scent.

8. Purchase a diffuser. These popular items for the home can help spread fragrance throughout your space.

9. Burn a soy candle. Natural candles provide scents in a nontoxic way.

10. Deep clean. Using a natural solution such as baking soda, lemons and borax can help clean your home with a fresh scent.

Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design home staging expert and short-term rental/vacation home designer with offices in New York City and The Hudson Valley. Contact her at info@cathyhobbs.com or visit her website at cathyhobbs.com. Copyright 2023 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.