Have you ever walked into a closet or laundry room and been hit with that damp, stale odor that just won’t go away? Spaces like closets, basements, entryways, and utility rooms tend to trap moisture, which leads to unpleasant smells no matter how often you clean. The good news is that there’s an incredibly easy, low-cost solution that works quietly in the background with almost no effort at all.
A simple jar of rice can act as a powerful odor absorber. Rice naturally pulls moisture from the air, which helps reduce musty smells before they take over your space. To use this trick, fill a mason jar with one to two cups of uncooked rice, then add 10 to 20 drops of your favorite essential oil. If the odor is especially strong, lemongrass oil is a popular choice thanks to its fresh, clean scent.
Once the rice and oil are inside the jar, cover the opening with a breathable fabric and secure it with an elastic band or the metal ring from the lid. Give the jar a gentle shake to evenly distribute the oil throughout the rice. Place it in your closet or any problem area and let it do its job. When the scent starts to fade, simply shake the jar again to reactivate it. One jar can remain effective for four to six months.
Getting rid of unpleasant odors doesn’t require expensive air fresheners or chemical sprays. With just rice and essential oils, you can freshen up your home naturally, save money, and enjoy cleaner-smelling spaces every day.
