Simmer pots are one of the oldest and most overlooked ways to naturally freshen a home.
Long before candles, plug-ins, or aerosol sprays existed, people gently simmered herbs, spices, and fruit peels in water to cleanse indoor air, lift mood, and create a sense of warmth and comfort.
Among all traditional combinations, orange peels and cloves stand out as one of the most powerful and effective pairings.
This simple duo doesn’t just smell pleasant. It works on a deeper level – neutralizing odors, supporting respiratory comfort, discouraging insects, and creating an atmosphere that feels clean, calm, and inviting.
The reason lies in the natural chemistry of both ingredients and how heat activates their benefits.
What Is a Simmer Pot?
A simmer pot is a pot of water gently heated on the stove (or in a slow cooker) with natural aromatic ingredients.
As the water warms, steam carries volatile plant compounds into the air, spreading their effects throughout the home.
Unlike artificial air fresheners that mask odors, simmer pots change the quality of indoor air by breaking down odor-causing molecules and introducing naturally antimicrobial compounds.
Why Orange Peels Are So Powerful in Simmer Pots
Orange peels contain high concentrations of limonene, a natural compound responsible for their bright citrus scent.
Limonene has been studied for its ability to neutralize odors, reduce airborne bacteria, and improve mood.
When heated in water, orange peels release:
- uplifting citrus oils
- mild antimicrobial vapors
- natural deodorizing compounds
This makes orange peels especially effective at removing cooking smells, stale winter air, pet odors, and mustiness.
Why Cloves Enhance the Effect
Cloves bring a deeper, warming layer to simmer pots. They are rich in eugenol, a potent compound with antimicrobial, antifungal, and insect-repelling properties.
When cloves are simmered, they release a spicy, grounding aroma that:
- neutralizes bacteria in the air
- helps discourage flies and insects
- creates a sense of warmth and comfort
- balances citrus sharpness with depth
This is why cloves have been used historically to preserve food, freshen rooms, and protect households.
Why Orange Peels and Cloves Work Better Together
Individually, both ingredients are effective. Together, they create a synergistic effect that is greater than either alone.
Orange peels provide brightness, freshness, and odor control. Cloves add depth, longevity, and antimicrobial strength.
The citrus oils help disperse clove compounds more evenly through the air, while cloves prevent the scent from becoming too sharp or fleeting.
The result is a balanced aroma that feels clean rather than perfumed—and comforting rather than overpowering.
1. Naturally Eliminates Odors Instead of Masking Them
Many synthetic air fresheners simply cover smells. Simmer pots work differently.
Orange peels break down odor molecules, while clove vapors inhibit the bacteria that cause lingering smells.
This makes the combination especially effective for:
- kitchen odors
- pet smells
- damp or musty rooms
- closed winter homes
Once the steam dissipates, the air feels genuinely fresh – not artificially scented.
2. Supports Respiratory Comfort
Warm, aromatic steam can help open nasal passages and support easier breathing, especially during colder months.
The natural oils released by orange peels and cloves create a soothing environment that many people find comforting for the respiratory system.
This makes simmer pots especially popular during seasonal changes when indoor air becomes dry and stagnant.
3. Helps Reduce Airborne Germs Naturally
Both orange peels and cloves contain compounds with antimicrobial activity. While simmer pots are not a medical disinfectant, they can help reduce airborne microbes and support a cleaner indoor environment.
This traditional method was commonly used in homes long before modern cleaning products existed.
4. Naturally Repels Flies and Insects
Cloves are well known for repelling flies, and citrus oils intensify this effect. A simmer pot placed in the kitchen or near entry points can help discourage insects – especially fruit flies – without sprays or chemicals.
This is particularly useful during warmer months or when fruit is kept out on counters.
5. Boosts Mood and Creates Emotional Comfort
Scent has a powerful connection to memory and emotion. Citrus scents are associated with energy and positivity, while clove aromas promote calm and grounding.
Together, they:
- reduce stress
- promote relaxation
- enhance feelings of warmth and safety
- create a welcoming home atmosphere
This is one reason simmer pots are so often associated with holidays and family gatherings.
6. Safer Alternative to Candles and Artificial Fragrances
Simmer pots offer a flame-free, chemical-free way to scent your home. There are no synthetic fragrances, no VOCs, and no residues left on surfaces.
This makes them ideal for:
- households with children
- pet owners
- people sensitive to strong scents
- anyone seeking low-toxicity living
How to Make an Orange Peel and Clove Simmer Pot
Place fresh or dried orange peels into a pot of water and add whole cloves. Heat gently until steaming, then reduce to a low simmer. Add water as needed to prevent evaporation.
The scent will gradually fill the space and can last for hours.
This method can also be used in a slow cooker for longer, unattended simmering.
When to Use Simmer Pots Most Effectively
Simmer pots are especially helpful:
- after cooking strong-smelling foods
- during winter when windows stay closed
- before guests arrive
- during holidays and gatherings
- when indoor air feels stale or heavy
They can be used daily or occasionally, depending on preference.
Why Simmer Pots Are Making a Comeback
As people move away from artificial fragrances and toward natural living, simmer pots are being rediscovered for their simplicity and effectiveness.
They cost almost nothing, reduce waste by using kitchen scraps, and reconnect modern homes with traditional wisdom.
In a world filled with quick fixes, simmer pots remind us that slow, gentle solutions often work best.
Orange peels and cloves are more than a pleasant scent – they are a powerful natural pairing that cleans, freshens, and transforms indoor air.