Learn how to make Linen Spray – Without Alcohol. There is just something so refreshing about the scent of fresh laundry. It seems like in a few days that smell is just gone so I decided to make my own linen spray with some of my favorite fragrance oils. Since I already make my own skin care recipes, I already have all of these ingredients at home. I use the linen spray on my sheets, blankets and clothing to refresh them in between washes. I also use it on cloth furniture and to freshen up stale air in my house. You should always do a spot test in an inconspicuous location.
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What is linen spray made of?
This diy linen spray is super easy to make and you probably have some if not all of the ingredients in your house.
Linen spray is typically made up of water, an emulsifier, fragrance and a preservative. It can also be made with alcohol instead of water.
Water
Although it is tempting to just use tap water, you should use distilled water to prevent any contaminants being added into the linen spray.
Emulsifier
In order to get the water and fragrance oil or essential oil to mix, we have to use an emulsifier. In this homemade linen spray I am using Polysorbate 20. It is an emulsifier and solubilizer that is commonly used in linen and room sprays.
Scent
This is where you really get to customize the linen spray to suit your needs. You can go with your favorite fragrance oil, essential oil or blend of essential oils.
Preservative
You will need a broad spectrum preservative to prevent mold and bacteria from growing in your linen spray.
Can you make a linen spray without alcohol?
I have read a lot of recipes that call for alcohol to get the fragrance to mix with the water. You can also get a mixture by using an emulsifier. To learn more about emulsifiers check out my Emulsions Explained post.
How long will linen spray last?
If you were to make a linen spray without a preservative, you would have to use it up very quickly. In a few days it is going to be growing mold and bacteria. By adding in a preservative, you can greatly extend the life of the product.
Can I use essential oils in a linen spray?
You can absolutely use essential oils in your homemade linen spray. When using essential oils, you want to stay away from plastic containers and use a glass one, preferably a tinted glass spray bottle that is stored out of direct sunlight.
Can the essential oils stain you fabric?
I always recommend doing a spot test to make sure that the fragrance oil or essential oil that you are using will not discolor your linen.
How to make a Homemade Linen Spray – without Alcohol
Mix the fragrance oil and polysorbate together in a small bowl.
Add the water and preservative and mix well. The mixture will become slightly cloudy, this is normal as it is creating an emulsion. I noticed that the cloudiness will mostly disappear.
Label the bottle. I make so many different things around my house that I try to label everything. Otherwise I tend to forget what bottle is the linen spray and what bottle is the all purpose cleaner.
To use, mist over linen or laundry.
Linen Spray – Without Alcohol Recipe
Equipment
- Scale
Ingredients
- 12.56 ounce | 78.5% Distilled Water
- 1.60 ounce | 10% Fragrance Oil
- 1.60 ounce | 10% Polysorbate 20
- 0.24 ounce | 1.5% Preservative
Instructions
- Mix the fragrance oil and polysorbate together in a small bowl.
- Add the water and preservative and mix well. The mixture will become slightly cloudy, this is normal as it is creating an emulsion. I noticed that the cloudiness will mostly disappear.
- Label the bottle. I make so many different things around my house that I try to label everything. Otherwise I tend to forget what bottle is the linen spray and what bottle is the all purpose cleaner.
- To use, mist over linen or laundry.