When it comes to making your house smell good, there's nothing like some Febreze to do the job for you. It makes my stinky old couch that traps every odor imaginable smell like a spring meadow. I go through about a bottle a month, sometimes more if I'm being honest (What can I say, the couch really does stink). But at over $5.59 per bottle, my pocketbook isn't as fond of it as I am. Until now. So when a friend of mine stumbled upon a recipe for homemade Febreze awhile back, I was over the moon when she shared it with me. In fact, there's a little story that goes along with my first attempt at homemade Febreze. Would you like to hear it? You would? Great! *ahem*
Once upon time, I was all proud of myself for making my first batch of homemade Febreze. I was so excited to try it out that I was acting silly and skipping across the living room towards the couch. I get halfway across the room when the nozzle of my spray bottle separates from the bottom, flies across the living room with my homemade creation glugging out all over my clean floors. I run over to the bottle to scoop it up as quickly as I can, slip on the Febreze concoction and go into a full split eventually landing flat on my hiney. Then I got up (slowly, I was a little...er, sore) and made another batch. Because it doesn't cost $5.59 a bottle for me anymore. Instead it costs $0.15 cents. Yep, you read it right. $0.15 cents! If that isn't worth a slide across the floor and a sore hiney I don't know what is!
What you'll need:
1/8 Cup of fabric softener (I used Downy April Fresh)
2 tablespoons Baking Soda
Hot tap water
Spray bottle (I used my empty 27 oz. Febreze bottle)
Preparation:
Using a funnel, pour fabric softener and baking soda into your spray bottle. Fill spray bottle with hot tap water and shake well. Don't forget to twist the nozzle over to the LOCK position if you're using a Febreze bottle, or you might fall on your hiney. Now go spray every fabric surface in your house and take a nap on your very comfortable and now un-stinky couch. :)
Store-bought Febreze: $5.59
Homemade Febreze: $0.15
Total Savings: $5.44 OR 97.3%!
Edit: I love and appreciate having my blog shared with anyone and everyone, I only ask that you credit the source of what you post back to my blog if you decide to share. Thanks!
Original recipe from http://fakeitfrugal.blogspot.com/2011/07/fake-febreeze.html
excellent! thank you for being the test subject.....sorry about the hiney....smiles
ReplyDeleteWould the fabric softener, even in its diluted state, be safe to spray on fabric surfaces around children and pets? I know that Febreze is but I'm not sure if there's a huge difference. If it's safe this stands as a great idea!
ReplyDeleteIf it's safe to go on your clothes (that you put on your children) I would assume so.
Deletebut the {clothes we put on our children}have been rinsed,but this is spraying it on stuff and letting it dry......i would think it would stain.
DeleteDo NOT spray real Febreeze or homemade near pet Birds..It will kill them!!!
DeleteActually, fabric softener is designed to stay in the clothes and not be rinsed out. That's why it gets added during the rinse cycle. It's also why it's a no-no for both towels and cloth diapers as the residue hampers absorbency.
DeleteDo you know the manufacturer of the faucet in picture?
DeleteThe manufacturer of the faucet is AquaSource. I purchased it at Lowe's. Here's the link: http://www.lowes.com/pd_319690-255-0475000A_0__?productId=3299174&Ntt=oil+rubbed+bronze+faucet+kitchen&pl=1¤tURL=&facetInfo=
DeleteCan't wait to try it. Thanks.
DeleteI've heard of numerous incidents where real Fabreeze have been harmful to animals. And since I have small kids ive stopped using it. Looking forward to trying this!
DeleteI know that with fabric softener the bottle says using more than recommended can cause fabrics to CATCH FIRE more quickly so this sounds pretty unsafe to me!
DeleteAnonymous, this calls for 1/8 cup of fabric softener. That's 1 ounce, a very tiny amount especially when diluted with 27 ounces of water. How can that possibly be more than recommended and unsafe?
DeleteI used 1 T of baking soda and 1 T Downy and water in my 16.9 oz bottle.
DeleteIm so excited to try this!!! I work at a shelter for teenagers and well some of my boys smell really strange!! This will save our Agency a LOT of money lol!!
DeleteFabric softener is one of the most toxic substances that we have in our homes. I would not want to use this to spray around my house and furniture, nor on my clothes. I am a bit disappointed by this recipe, as I was hoping for a homemade, all natural alternative.
DeleteSo what do you use as an alternate to fabric softener
DeleteSo whet do you use for fabric softener
DeleteIt won't help with this recipe but 1/2 cup white vinegar in your rinse wash is a great alternative to fabric softener. Makes clothes soft and has anti bacterial properties.
DeleteWhite vinegar is an alternative for fabric softener...I also have wool dryer balls that I bought from a homestead business. I have used a recipe for fabric softener that uses vinegar, water, baking soda and a few drops of an essential oil (I use lavender or ornage).
Deletekelly, i would suggest trying vinegar in your wash as a fabric softner
DeleteI put an ounce of lavender in a muslin bag and that is my fabric softener.
DeleteI would never use this new "fabreeze", it's still not 100% natural.
Fabric softner all has harmful chemicals.
But nice try.
Febreeze is absolutely deadly to pet birds.....ANY kind of pet birds! Anything with essential oils is also....they'll drop where they sit! Their lungs can't tolerate essential oils that are in ALL air fresheners, perfumes, Febreeze and everything like it! Also toxic to them is Teflon that is heated over 400*!!! DO NOT USE ANYTHING LIKE THIS AROUND THEM! I know a woman who lost all 8 of her parrots from Teflon....and another who lost all hers from using Febreeze! I don't wear perfume at all anymore because I want my parrots alive!
DeleteThere are recipes for home made fabric softener on here as well.
DeleteThere are recipies for home made fabric softener on this site as well.
Deletea great alternative to fabric softener is vinegar.... I started using this recipe for fabric softener almost a year ago - very inexpensive and it smells better than store bought: http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com/2012/02/rebeccas-rosemary-mint-fabric-softener.html.......I used this recipe today on my furniture - it now smells heavenly....Thank you!!!
DeleteI use white vinegar as a fabric softener (it doesn't smell once dried) and a ball of aluminum foil in the dryer to reduce static. Costs me almost nothing a year and works amazingly well. For my own febreeze, I simply dilute 20 drops of essential oil/2c water in a spray bottle. Natural disinfectant and smells good all in one step.
DeleteI use plain white vinegar as fabric softener ... And no, things do not smell like vinegar. It is excellent for removing odors from air and fabrics. I will give this a try using vinegar but would expect to need maybe twice as much vinegar as fab softener. I was a little disappointed too that a recipe on 'herbs and oils' called for fabric softener, I stopped using it years ago because of how toxic it is.
Deleteuggh, you people do know that there are millions of " all natural" and "green" products that can kill you if used at improper doses or ratios?? Nearly anything used improperly is hazardous. Just because it is "natural" does not mean it's good for you OR your animals and environment.
DeleteI'm sure most of you (or some, maybe none actually...) mean well, but you're being exceptionally judgmental. Unless you live in a bubble, you can eat all the organic foods, use only the most natural products and still be exposed to environmental toxins. I used 99% natural cleaners, vinegar etc in my home but I'm going to try this with Seventh Gen fabric softener. Loosen up.
DeleteIf you don't like it, then leave the page, I obviously don't want to hear your crap, if I was concerned I would research myself....
DeleteFor the fabric softner debate, we don't use any at all. We just use dryer balls in the dryer and our clothes smell great. Okay back to reading now. :)
DeleteFebreeze is highly toxic and has cancer causing ingredients. Do not use on children's clothing and pet bedding.
Deletewhite vinegar works great in the wash for smell . gives clothes like a new feel after coming out of the dyer.
DeleteVinegar is not only a good fabric softener but it good for your washing machine. Helps get rid of mineral build-up.
DeleteHow much water do you fill it with? I definitely want to try this but my bottle is 16.9 oz.
ReplyDeleteAwesome! Can't wait to try it! Does the baking soda ever leave behind a dust / film once it's dry?
ReplyDeleteNope this is WONDERFUL!! I love this!!
DeleteI sprayed it all over my couches and forgot to remove the remote control. When it all dried I did notice a film. I am now worried that it is getting into my couches and thus making it smell worse. Now I have to vacuume them to ensure no build up
DeleteI've noticed a bit of a residue also, and have to vacuum my couches & floors after spraying this. I'm not sure if that's worth it to me, especially if it's going to make things smell weird unless I vacuum afterwards.
DeleteIf it leaves a film/residue maybe adjust the amount of baking soda?
DeleteI didn't know that fabric softener shouldn't be added to towels.. I've been having a problem w/ my cleaned towels keeping an odor. I'll have to remember that!!
DeleteI am the previous owner of a carpet and upholstery cleaning company - FYI - Anything you spray on furniture or carpet will leave some residue. The residue will then collect dirt and dust over time. A better idea would be to spray it on a washable pillow cover or throw.
DeleteAnonymous on August 21, My clean towels used to smell too until I started washing them with a cup of white vinegar added with the detergent. Vinegar is a much better cleaner than detergent is. Towels are always fresh now!
DeleteAllison I had the same problem until I discovered the purex crystals you wont be disappointed you washroom will even smell awesome while washing I get it at walmart
DeleteWhen using the Purex Crystals be sure to use washing machine cleaner every few month because it will leave a build up on the under side of the washer tub. Over time it will start to make your clothes smell like mildew.
DeleteThanks, Emom! The savings were so worth a bruised hiney! haha
ReplyDeleteReiahart, I'm not 100% sure on that one, but I have two large dogs and spray it on my couches, beds, curtains, etc. on a regular basis. I don't think there would be a problem, but I would definitely keep it out of the little one(s) reach.
Jackieohejl, I just filled it to just below the top of the bottle so it wouldn't overflow when I put the nozzle in. The recipe I used was for a 27 oz. bottle, so you could probably put a little less fabric softener and only 1 tablespoon of baking soda. It's not an exact science so if the smell isn't strong enough or is too strong, you can always adjust the amounts of the fabric softener :)
Allie Z, I haven't noticed any dust or film on any of my fabrics after using this (nor on my hardwood floor after I spilled it everywhere), just fresh, clean smell (and surprisingly shiny floors!). In my opinion, it works better and has more staying power than regular Febreze.
So your saying its great as a floor polish for hardwood floors as well?
DeleteI tried this and it works awesome! I have a shih-tzu that is super sensitive to smells, and it doesn't bother her one bit!
DeleteIt is poisonous to dogs... I know you mean well, but if you love your animals you might want to consider using only non-toxic cleaning products on your floors and wherever the animals will be. I use either Miracle II soap with lemon essential oils added in, or a liquid castille soap with essential oils, for cleaning. My dogs and cat walk all over the floors, lick their paws, etc and do not get sick from it. Just a recommendation from a fellow animal lover.
DeleteRebecca, I know you are doing your best to take care of your animals and keep their environment non-toxic. However, cats and dogs (but cats, particularly) do not process essential oils the way humans do. They can be HIGHLY toxic to cats. I have seen 2 cats come through the vet practice where I work, one died from exposure to essential oils, and the other had permanent kidney damage. Both were normal exposure levels (they were not exposed to large amounts, just normal amounts used in household). Please consider using something other than essential oils for cleaning purposes. The response is not always immediate, but for cats, you should be aware that you are damaging their kidneys through that level of constant exposure to EO, regardless of quality/purity of the oils you are using.
DeleteI have a yorkie and it didnt bother her either.
DeleteCan't wait to try this--I LOVE FOR MY HOUSE TO SMELL GREAT!!!!! The best part is that it won't cost a great deal of money.
ReplyDeleteDoes the baking soda settle? Do you have to shake it before you use it? I'm excited to try this, but the last DIY cleaner I tried with baking soda was just a mess - it clogged the spray bottle and never worked. Is that an issue with this?
ReplyDeleteI had issues with the baking soda clogging the nozzle with the recipe. Is there a way to avoid this. I have tried it twice and both times it has been the same. clumpy baking soda.
DeleteTry using distilled water vs. hard tap water, when you make products with baking soda.
DeleteIf you are concerned about residue from the baking soda use 2 T - 1/4 Cup of white vinegar in its place. I didn't want residue so I use this recipe and love it.
DeleteThe only thing I can think of is to boil the water in a pot, then add the baking soda and continue to boil until dissolve. Let the mixture cool, then add the softener. If that doesn't work, I would try using less baking soda.
DeleteI usually just shake it up a bit before I use it. I've never tried using it without swirling it around a bit first, and holds up well over time. No clumping or clogged spray bottle as of yet :)
ReplyDeleteOmg, this is a wonderful idea!!! I will be trying this...Thx for posting.
ReplyDeleteI'm making this! Hey, everybody, this smart lady is my cousin!!!
ReplyDeleteThis sounds great! Even the cheap "febreze" is too pricey when you have pets and stinky teen boys lolling on the couch for hours. I have one concern though. Fabric softener stains if it goes directly on fabric. Did you try a larger amount before and then found the 1/8 cup to be the "safe" dilution so that the colour of the fab softener doesn't stain the fabrics?
ReplyDeleteI wonder if using essential oils instead of fabric softener would work. I never buy softener because we all have sensitive skin in this house...that and it can ruin your dryer.
ReplyDeletethey make a sensitive skin brand I believe it is without perfumes, which is usually the problem with sensitive skin! ;) and I know this because i have a similar problem ;)
DeleteI use a recipe that uses 1 C of Water, 2TBSP of (cheap) vodka and 15-20 drops of your favorite essential oil. It works great but doesn't creat an extremely strong scent. It really just smells fresh and not like much at all after awhile (just gets rid of the stinky smells.) And the vodka helps as a bug repellent... A bonus. :D (this is a good recipe for those that are good with using fabric softener though. What a great idea!)
DeleteI have read if you have cats, a lot of essential oils are harmful to them.
DeleteYou can use vinegar as a fabric softener. It leaves clothes super soft and no it doesn't make them smell like vinegar. Plus it helps keep your washer clean!
DeleteI no longer use fabric softener as well and was thinking to use my essential oils to replace the softener. I will try this and see. Thanks for the post!
Deletemake sure you test a small hidden area as essential oils can stain the fabric.
DeleteCalm down, people! Its just a little fabric softener not acid!!
DeleteI LOVE the wrinkle release stuff.
DeleteKeep it in my suitcase. It's expensive, so when I ran out,
I put the fabric softener sheets into the bottle, added water,
and voila! cheap wrinkle release spray!
I don't see why essential oils would be a problem, sounds like a good idea to me! If you try it let me know how it goes.
ReplyDeleteRen, I've only ever used the 1/8 of a cup of fabric softener, but I've never noticed a problem with staining. Maybe the dilution and baking soda help with that?
I Love You! Miss Brianna; you're one smart lady!
ReplyDeleteOh how great! We don't have fabrese here in Greece so this is perfect! Thanks!
ReplyDeleteEleni @ On Top Of Spaghetti
Thanks for the recipe! I just made up a batch and it was awesome! I had been boycotting actual Febreze because of the cost AND same with the softener (fam of 5-lots of laundry). However, I got a good deal on the softener (used Snuggle) once and had some still on hand. LOVED it!!! Hopefully that was enough to add a little oomph to the cleaning I have to do this week!!
ReplyDeleteyou can make your own fabric softener using vinegar and hair conditioner for a little bit of nothing, I have five kids and a husband that goes through TONS of work clothes and I have been using it for years. WORKS GREAT!
DeleteWhat about microfiber fabric? My furniture is made from this. Do you think it will hurt this fabric?
ReplyDeleteRegular Febreze doesn't leave spots on my microfiber couches. I stand a ways back and spray so that it just gets a fine mist on the couches. There are sometimes bigger drops that land on them but it all dries clear. Not sure how the fabric softener febreze would work though. You could test a small area and see. If it stains, try cleaning by spraying rubbing alcohol on the spot and scrubbing with a dry sponge.
DeleteI wash my microfiber couch cushion covers in the washer with fabric softener all the time (drooly dog!)and they take the fabric softener just fine~I'd say this would be the same :-) I cant wait to make some tonight!
DeleteMy mom mixed Shout, Fabic softner & a few other things to clean out microfiber rugs and the stains came out PERFECTLY. So I don't think this will stain it. :)
DeleteKara, I'm not sure about microfiber fabric. I don't even know if regular Febreze is okay for that. Sorry :/
ReplyDeleteRead your post and I happen to have a empty febreze.. trying to convince myself to spend that money again...thank you soo much...prepared the solution ...used lavender downy...the living area smells heavenly
ReplyDeleteThank you, Thank you for this. I too have 2 teenage boys and 3 dogs so needless to say i use alot of air freshener and fabric freshener. I recently found myself buying at least 1 a week and this was killing my budget. I soon agreed with my conscience that it was very frugal to spend this much. Thanks so much for giving me clean smelling furniture and beds again. My house once again smells civil again.
ReplyDeleteI'm almost out of Febreze and have been looking for it to go on sale to get more. It's just so darn expensive. I will have to give this a shot and see how it works for us. Thanks so much!
ReplyDeleteCan you use baking powder instead if baking soda?
ReplyDeleteNo. Two different things. Plus, baking soda is much cheaper!
DeleteI'm not sure how baking powder would work in place of baking soda - I use baking soda for all of my cleaning, though and it's really good at neutralizing odors. I know that there is some baking soda in baking powder, and they are both leavening agents, so maybe just make a small tester batch to try in an inconspicuous spot and see? If you do try it, let us know how it turns out!
ReplyDeleteI thought they derived the product from corn starch. Maybe they derive fabric softener from corn starch.
ReplyDeleteBaking soda has a different ph than baking powder, they are not interchangeable. Baking powder does not work for cleaning, and it's alot more expensive that soda
ReplyDeleteThis is such a Great idea!!! Thanks for aaving us all a lot of money!!
ReplyDeleteCharlene from Mississippi
love the idea, gonna have to try it by the weekend. hubby has diabetes and spills during the night, I spray his pillow about everynight. I buy febreeze way too often, this would save me tons of money! ;)
ReplyDeleteHave been using this for a week now, AWESOME. Febreze bothers my breathing but this does not. I sprayed it on a white cloth and it left no residue. Suggestion, add the baking soda to the hot water first to disolve it, then add softener.
ReplyDeleteThe real stuff gives me a headache so I am going to try this the first opportunity I get. Thanks for sharing, hope all the bruises have gone!
ReplyDeleteCKx
This really works! We buy Febreeze so often this will save us a ton of money- plus time as my husband has to have the downey scent and we have to drive across town to get it due to the stores close to us either don't carry it or are alway out. Thanks
ReplyDeleteHas anyone tired this on microfiber sofa? If so, does it leave any marks/residue. I am excited to try it but do not want to leave any marks on the sofa, as paying a cleaner to clean them would take out the cost effectiveness of this post lol :)
ReplyDeleteI mixed some of this up, followinfollowing the exact measurements and MISTED my microfiber sofa. NO problems with spotting or any noticeable residue. I would be careful not to saturate any areas.
DeleteAs people have pointed out, fabric softeners do build up in fabric and eventually attract dirt. I figure for me, it's no big deal since I steam clean my couch (with distilled water) 1-2 x per year anyway. Plus, with this being this is such a small amount of softener in the recipe and an even smaller amount actually being sprayed on the couch it would take years for enough to build up to make a noticeable difference.
Thanks for posting such a great recipe to save us all big bucks over time. Love this!
You can probably make it even cheaper by using homemade fabric softner!! I love my homemade softner, which costs around $1 to make a bottle, and it smells great.
ReplyDeleteHow do you make homemade fabric softner?
DeleteI personally use vinegar with essential oils for fabric softener. I bought a 4L bottle of vinegar and poured about 25 drops of my oil inside.
DeleteThank YOU Thank You Thank you! We're pinching pennies until my hubby's bonus check get's here, and I just ran out of febreeze! Thank you!
ReplyDeleteKM Logan
lessonsfromivy.com
You might want to know that the Facebook page "Giggle Palooza" has "borrowed" your recipe and picture without credit. https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=332348750183364&set=a.174259209325653.44765.174252539326320&type=1&theater
ReplyDeleteWe just made this tonight and LOVE IT!!
ReplyDeletefor those of you worried about stained fabric or safety around children/pets with the fabric softener you can make your own fabric softener and use it here too. 1 regular size bottle of suave hair conditioner (about 2 cups) 3 to 4 cups of white vinegar, 6 cups of warm water. mix together and use 1/4 cup per load of laundry. works great. and doesnt leave clothes smelling like vinegar i promise! since it uses hair conditioner you can make any scent you want! :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing. I pinned this and linked back to you. I started following you too.
ReplyDeleteBlessings and come visit my blog if you get a chance.
Seems like the fabric softener would leave a film over time. With clothing, even though it's designed to stay in, when you wash your clothes it's washed away and replaced with new.
ReplyDeletei've gone through a whole bottle already just made another it works amazing for my work shoes after being in em for up to 10 hours makes them so fresh everytime. i spray this all over the carpet and bed it smells like fresh laundry all the time :) its so easy to make and i add a couple drops of rubbing alcohol to kill germs.
ReplyDeleteIs the softener you used concentrated or regular strength? Meaning, if you used 1/8 cup regular strength softener, would I use 1/16 cup concentrated softener for instance. Thanks so much.
ReplyDeleteI love this idea but I am allergic to fabric softener. Do you think there is anything I could substitute?
ReplyDeleteTry essential oils.
DeleteJust made this and it's fantastic! I love it, I used Snuggle White Lavendar & Sandlewood fabric softner and my house smells great and no residue. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteYAY! I just made my own febreeze and sprayed it over my couches! My whole house smells like laundry (which I LOVE). It took my couches a little longer to completely dry compared to store bought febreeze but it's worth the wait!!!!! THANK YOU!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing. I just made my own using your recipe and may never purchase Febreze (which I love) again. Enjoyed your writing too.....thanks for the laughs!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great idea!! Saw this on another post, as well. I am trying it as soon as I can get to the store to buy fabric softener! Baking soda is a natural cleaner/deodorizer so it's what neutralizes the odors. It should dissolve when hot water is added. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteFirst of all I must admit that I am addicted to Febreze.. My husband calls me a Febreze junkie... lol I just have a fear of my house (couch, throw pillows, etc) smelling when someone comes to visit.. I guess I'm paranoid because we farm cattle, horses and my son rodeos. But if that's not enough to make our house smell like a barn... We also have about 10 extra boys that seem to find there way to our house every weekend after the rodeos.. Which I love and wouldn't change for anything. But you know it's not a pleasant smell when you have all those boys in a room after riding horses and bulls all night.. lol But they know where I keep my stash of Febreze and I sometimes catch them spraying things down as well..lol
ReplyDeleteSo I just want to say THANK YOU for sharing this and for saving my family so much money!! My husband also "THANKS YOU".. Because now he can play an extra round of golf a week with the money you saved us!! Which could work to my advantage as well.. lol
Thank you again!
B Watt
def need to try this. it's sounds like a great idea!!!
ReplyDeleteJust made 2 batches. :) I used Gain liquid softener.. :) My house smells so clean and fresh, and my couches smell good too. THANK YOU!
ReplyDeleteI Love Gain!!
DeleteJust tried this and it's awesome! Just happened to have an almost empty fabreze bottle on hand. I sprayed the rest in one room and made your recipe and used it in another. The room I used with fabreze doesnt last as long and your recipe. AND my bed sheet also feels softer with the homemade batch! Thank you again! Saved me $$$!!
ReplyDeleteI just sprayed it all over and I love the cost and smell but I did notice a white film on a black plastic toy. I have to wash it and now vacuum my couches to get that film off too. I plan on using this for my floors but not so sure on my couches. Did you notice this as well? I shook it before every use and when I first mixed it I used very hot water to ensure proper dissolve.
ReplyDeleteI just "Febreezed" my whole house and didn't feel guilty about using the whole bottle. Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU!!
ReplyDeleteI just sprayed my living room and it smells amazing. However,I too noticed a white film where the overspray landed on a black storage ottoman next to the couch. I have never noticed this with regular Febreeze. I am worried about build up on the furniture. I plan on using less fabric softner next time. I only used 1/8 cup and used a 32 oz. bottle. Any suggestions on what I might do differently?
ReplyDeleteSo I finally ran out of my last bottle of Febreeze and made up a batch to spray on the carpet and pet bedding. I did use only half the softener and soda though. The "white film" people are seeing is most likely the soda coming out of solution once the spray dries. Since its a solid you dissolve, when it dries the soda reforms into crystals on the surface of the item. Try adding less soda and see if that helps.
ReplyDeleteI didn't have any issues although we don't have alot of dark solid surfaces in our home. Smells nice and fresh and with a more diluted spray I don't worry about the dogs. We usually spray stuff while we are in another room or outside and move back once its dried....if its bad for your pets, its bad for you too after all...
Adding some rubbing alcohol cuts drying time which is handy.
ReplyDeleteI used homemade fabric softener on this and didn't notice much of a scent. I tried adding another 1/8 c of softener and it helped, but the scent doesn't seem to "stick." Not sure if the homemade softener really has enough umph to go the extra mile, here.
ReplyDeleteJust wanted to let you know that i tried this because my Handsome is allergic to regular Fabreze, and it worked wonderfully!!! We haven't had any trouble with residue, etc. Also, posted a link back to you on my blog with credit for you, because I loved it so much:-)
ReplyDeleteFabreze contains a patented sugar-like molecule which is shaped like a big empty ring.
ReplyDeleteStinky hydrocarbons get stuck inside this ring, and are thus prevented from floating in the air.
What you are making with this recipe is simply perfume, which overpowers the stink and leaves a bit of stickyness.
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/51/Cyclodextrin.svg/600px-Cyclodextrin.svg.png
Do you work for the Febreze company?
DeleteI made this yesterday & it smells GREAT! But I did notice the overspray on the end table by the sofa (today) & black part of the remote control. I have a question - does anyone else (or do you) notice that this is REALLY wet compared to true Febreze? It took forever to dry on my sofa. When I did my bed, I made sure (kind of like spray paint) to keep moving, but even then it took an hour or so to dry. I think Febreze is more 'misty' & this is more watery. Unless I'm missing something ??
ReplyDeleteI see your point, and I think there may be a couple of reasons behind this. One being difference in water bottle sprays. The bottles Febreze and other deodorizers use create a very fine mist, whereas cheap spray bottles create larger water droplets - which take longer to dry. Also Febreze may contain something like alcohol to help facilitate drying time. I checked my bottle of Febreze and it doesn't seem to be any less watery than water itself. I just think it has more to do with the type of spray nozzle used. Hope this helps :)
DeleteLet me tell you a story before I express my concern. I was getting black splotches on my clothes after washing them, splotches that I wasn't able to treat. Besides there were too many. At that time there was a Maytag Laundry Institute; I don't know if it still exists. I sent them a sample of affected clothes. They explained that fabric softener leaves a waxy substance under the agitator. The wax attracts the dirt in the wash water. Soon there is an appreciable dark waxy build-up. When you fill the tub with warm or hot water, some of the substance is melted off into the water and lands on your clothes. I removed my agitator, and sure enough... I've never used liquid fabric softener again. That being said, I would be concerned that this Febreze homemade solution would do the same thing on a couch--build up and attract dirt. I wouldn't be as concerned about using it on clothing or bedding, because the minimal amount of of residue will be washed out when laundered.
ReplyDeleteJust tried this and it's great!
ReplyDeleteI think this would be fantastic to use on my carpets..I live in an area where we have so much humidity that carpets can have a musty smell during the summer months...unless you shampoo them every second day lol... so I can't wait to try this out...the humidity might actually keep releasing the smell of the fabric softener for days afterwards..Febreeze is so expensive to use on all the carpets in the house...thank you so much for the tip!!
ReplyDeleteI just tried it using Pyrex crystals before u spray make sure crystals r completely dissolved it smells so good. thanks u saved me $ & that is always a plus!!
ReplyDeleteI have a bad memory so I wrote the recipe right on the bottle with a Sharpie! That way anyone in the house can refill when it is empty too :) just a thought.
ReplyDeleteCan you make this using homemade fabric softener (hair Conditioner,vinegar. And water)?
ReplyDeleteI use 2 cups conditioner, 2 cups vinegar and 4 cups of water. Works just as good as store bought stuff and I have an HE washer.
DeleteSo excited to try this!!! And you made me laugh as I pictured you skipping around spraying your formula and bam chaos! Thanks again for the wonderful post.
ReplyDeleteI am soooo doing this
ReplyDeleteI am soooo doing this
ReplyDelete1 income & 3 kids.... Thanks so much for the money saving ideas!
ReplyDeleteI tried this and love it!! I WAS a Febreze user until I found this; thank you so much for sharing, I am going to save so much money :) I have shared this on my blog if you would like to check it out the post is here
ReplyDeletehttp://mistyshoreschesapeakes.wordpress.com/2012/10/19/follow-up-friday-4/
Glad you liked it, and thank you for featuring it on your blog! :)
DeleteI used some conditioner, instead of fabric softener... i didn't have any softener on hand because I make my own using the water/vinegar/conditioner recipe... so far so good, smells really nice!!
ReplyDeleteI just made this and used it... The fabric softener needs to be about 1 or 2 tablespoon, because the 1/8th is making me feel sickly, probably because I just sprayed a bunch of it. I had to open the doors and let fresh air in! The amount you put in depends on what your going to use it for IMHO. I'm debating whether to add alcohol or a little white vinegar to this recipe, the problem is, chemicals react and I don't know how they will interact with the fabric softener. I used "Gain - Dreamy Desire fabric softener", it's a light soft scent and good for this, but I will use less next time.
ReplyDeleteI just made this and used it... The fabric softener needs to be about 1 or 2 tablespoon, because the 1/8th is making me feel sickly, probably because I just sprayed a bunch of it. I had to open the doors and let fresh air in! The amount you put in depends on what your going to use it for IMHO. I'm debating whether to add alcohol or a little white vinegar to this recipe, the problem is, chemicals react and I don't know how they will interact with the fabric softener. I used "Gain - Dreamy Desire fabric softener", it's a light soft scent and good for this, but I will use less next time.
ReplyDeleteAll you are missing is Hydroxypropyl beta-cyclodextrin... the active ingredient in Febreze. If you want your stuff to smell nice, that's fine... but you are not making Febreze
ReplyDeleteYou're right -they are not making Febreze. They are making a Febreze alternative. Febreze isn't good for anything other than make your stuff smell nice, draining your wallet, and creating waste. At least the baking soda in the homemade mix has deodorizing properties.
DeleteJust remember while using homemade febreze, that fabric softener removes scotch guard and flame retardant on materials. :)
ReplyDelete1/8 c. = 2 Tbsp.
ReplyDeleteWow! This is ideal and I like it. I will refer this to my sister and hope to try this at home . Big thanks for sharing your idea in making home made febreze. My pleasure.
ReplyDeleteGoing to try after I clean my house, opinion following :)
ReplyDeleteSo Febreeze sprayed things are supposedly dangererous and can catch fire easily eh?
ReplyDeleteStop throwing balls of flames at your couches people!
hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha!
DeleteI read on the back that one of the ingredients in febreze was an odor eliminator derived from corn,diy suggests baking soda,wouldn't cornstarch be more applicable?
ReplyDeleteNo, cornstarch is not more applicable. The ingredient in febreze that you refer to is a fancy shaped sugar molecule, derived from corn. The shape of the molecule (a ring that traps the molecules that cause the odors) is what makes it work on odors, not the fact that it is corn-derived. So when trying to make something cheaper that will serve the same purpose as Febreze in the household, you want an ingredient known for its odor eliminating abilities. Baking soda is a very effective odor eliminator. Cornstarch... not so much.
DeleteThese chemicals sprayed on clothes can cause allergies. I would not recomend it cause we don't know how safe they are.
ReplyDeleteHaha to Dog Blog name of the manufacturer of the faucet ... Like so something I would say ..
ReplyDeleteI have been using this for a long time and was happy with it. but i was eager to see if i could improve it. i started using the downy unstopables instead of the softener and it really lasts soooo much longer! my couch doesnt stink like dog any more and it has been days since my last use and it still smells like i just sprayed it
ReplyDeleteIt's really amazing and money saving homemade tip!
ReplyDeletefabric softener is one of the most toxic combinations out there. For those of us who prefer homemade (and eco friendly) recipes I wonder if there is a substitute for the fabric softener??
ReplyDeleteFabric Softener is one of the most toxic household items...for those of use who enjoy homemade items but prefer them to be "eco friendly" I wonder if there is a substitute for the fabric softener??
ReplyDeleteJust made my first bottle of your recipe. Used a generic tropical breeze scented fabric softener, and washing soda. I think I need a touch more of the fabric softener since it is generic, too light a scent but I did like the freshness, maybe I perceived freshness... Thanks for the idea.
ReplyDeleteSpraying chemicals all over your house is indoor air pollution! You seriously do not want to inhale all this stuff, people!!! Especially for children. Read about it!
ReplyDeleteI don't like chemicals, but it really can't be much worse than all of the fumes/chemicals coming out of your furniture, paint, sealed/treated wood, and carpeting. Those things are made with some pretty nasty stuff, too.
DeleteMake your own with vinegar, water and conditioner....
DeleteI wonder if you put a couple dryer sheets in the bottle and let them soak for an hour or so then remove them it that could be substituted for the liquid kind? Just an idea.
ReplyDeleteI dont know if someone mentioned this or not there were too many comments to read them all... I use 1/2 the water suggested and then put vodka as the other 1/2. so when you are filling w/water, stop at 1/2 and then add vodka. drying time is a lot less. plus, when you put the baking soda in, throw some hot water in to dissolve it and it will mix better with the rest of the ingredients and not leave a film. also shake it well before each use.
ReplyDeleteDoesn't the baking soda clog the sprayer?
ReplyDeleteI have been making this for a little over a year. I stopped using baking soda all together because of the film. I now just use Gain tropical scent (just a personal favorite and seems to hold the smell the longest IMO) and water. I spray it about a foot or so in a mist onto my curtains. Works wonders!
ReplyDeleteI own a business where our essential oils are the only ones on the market that are 100% safe to ingest not just use on body and things. Out of respect for ssite owner please feel free to contact me at tmonica21@gmail.com. I think this may help a lot of you. Thank you for this amazing DIY
ReplyDeleteThank you....I have a business where our essential oils are 100% safe to ingest. Out of respect for site owner please contact me at tmonica21@gmail.com for more information. Essential oils should be safe not just to spray on things but also to rub on our bodies and use for the inside of our bodies. Great idea and total saving some money
ReplyDeleteI have 3 dogs and I cover their beds with old sheets. I've been using fabric softener on them for years and they've never had a problem. I also spray their beds with Odoban (purchased at Costco) too. Dogs aren't that delicate.
ReplyDeleteThankyou for sharing this! My husband loves that stuff & goes nuts with the spray bottle. Meanwhile most sprays, scents etc give me nosebleeds. I am going to make this up and put it in his Febreeze bottle, how many bets he never notices!
ReplyDeleteHave you tried cheap vodka with the essence oil of your choice. Lavender happens to be my favorite. No stain because you spray it in the air and it disinfects as it falls and evaporates. I've used it as a linen spray, couch, curtains, floors, and you don't have to worry about it hurting the animals (unless you are spraying it directly in their eyes)....Just a thought and the best thing is you add as many drops as you like to get the scent you prefer. Slight to strong. I usually do a spray bottle from the 99 cent store, put in 4-5 drops, add the vodka, shake, and spray.
ReplyDeleteFYI: 100% essential oils are natural but it doesn't mean they are safe. Some are not to be used around birds, cats, or pregnant women. Please do your research before using them!
DeleteHow about cheap vodka and a few drops of your favorite essence (mine is lavender). That way you can make the smell as slight or as strong as you like, no stains, disinfects, cleans the air, linen spray etc. Doesn't harm the animals either.
ReplyDeleteFabric softener doesn't sound very natural. How about water, baking soda and lemon essential oil?
ReplyDeleteFabric softener, while it might be cheap, doesn't sound very natural. How about baking soda, essential lemon oil and water?
ReplyDeleteI adapted this recipe and used a natural fabric softener made with natural plant based materials by Seventh Generation http://www.seventhgeneration.com/Fabric-Softener
ReplyDeleteI like the idea of all natural, and use this recipe with a natural plant-based fabric softener by Seventh Generation: http://www.seventhgeneration.com/Fabric-Softener
ReplyDeleteSounds like a good idea. I will try it when my container runs out. The combination should also be good for dry area that have more static electricity. We'll see.
ReplyDeleteThere are alot of harmful chemicals in fabric softner, thats why I quit using it, even though its a good idea, there has to be something safer to use.
ReplyDeleteI plan to make some of this!!! Sounds like a great way to save a few pennies. Plus if you don't mind I plan to share the recipe with my FB friends.
ReplyDeleteThis is a great mixure. I have been using it for years, first when my children were very small, we called it "Monster Spray." I would spray it on their beds and their floors in their room an then the monsters couldn't enter their dreams.
ReplyDeleteI missed the part where the blogger claimed that this was all natural. She said it was homemade febreze. I also think it's hilarious that most of the "natural" mamas that wouldn't "touch" fabric softener are selling natural products...of course you all are ;). Keep hocking your "natural" stuff and I'll keep using vinegar when I want something "natural".
ReplyDeleteI fail to see why ppl have the nerve to come on here and complain about your recipe. Guess what folks??? No one said you have to do it. She had an idea.. if you like it awesome but if you don't no one really cares! Thank you for posting stuff you are doing a great job!
ReplyDeleteRight on Dina!!
DeleteWe all have to realize that there are people in the world that would complain if someone gave them one million dollars! Unfortunately, that is how some people thrive . . . Instead of making the world a better place, they have to tear others down! So sad!
ReplyDeleteIt works perfectly!! Smells just like the bottle. I was down to my last ounce of Febreeze & refused to pay nearly $7 for a new bottle. Thank you Brianna for this great tip!!
ReplyDeleteGlad I found this! Gonna make some today, I love April Fresh Downy! Sorry to be a Debbie Downer, but some of the posters can keep your "vinegar". I had an employee once used vinegar in cleaning my office. I told him my office smelled liked pickled cucumbers. Yuck! ;-)
ReplyDeleteThis blog was... how do I say it? Relevant!! Finally I
ReplyDeletehave found something that helped me. Thanks!
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Listen to how crazy y'all sound. Jeez. Seriously. It's a homemade recipe for Febreeze. It's not the most important thing in the world y'all. Leave her alone.
ReplyDeleteQuick question - could I use my home made fabric softener instead of store bought? That would make this recipe pretty much free ;)
ReplyDeleteyou have a nice post and page I would love to share it with others . who want to save money and make it themselves. I do and am that kind of person frugal is so lovely a way of life! thanks os much. I found this on Pinterest. I just thought you should know! smile have a great day and week and again thanks so much. Great idea!!
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Thank you for the recipe !
ReplyDeleteFabric softener makes things less flame retardant. I would be wary of spraying it on everything.
ReplyDeleteFor those of us that CAN use fabric softener/Febreeze...thank you for the money saving recipe!
ReplyDelete