How to Calculate the True Cost of Homemade Simmer Pots
A simmering potpourri pot transforms your home with natural fragrance from citrus peels, warm spices, vanilla, and dried botanicals, and it costs a fraction of what plug-in air fresheners or scented candles run. But exactly how much does each batch cost, and how does it compare to store alternatives?
What Goes Into a Simmer Pot Batch?
- Citrus: Orange, lemon, or grapefruit slices are the most common base. A batch uses 1 to 2 pieces of fruit, costing roughly $0.50 to $2.00.
- Spices: Cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise, and cardamom pods add depth. A few sticks or a teaspoon of whole spices costs under $1.00 per batch when bought in bulk.
- Dried botanicals: Rosemary, lavender, pine needles, or dried apple rings add a custom touch and cost very little per use.
- Vanilla or essential oils: A few drops rounds out the scent and adds minimal cost per batch.
How Many Uses Per Batch?
Most simmer pot recipes can be used 2 to 4 times before the ingredients lose their fragrance. Refrigerate the pot between sessions to extend its life. A $3 batch used 3 times costs just $1 per session.
Tips to Lower Your Cost Per Batch
- Buy whole spices in bulk from an ethnic grocery. Per-unit costs drop 60 to 80 percent compared to grocery spice racks.
- Save citrus peels in the freezer instead of using whole fruit slices.
- Grow your own rosemary or lavender to eliminate botanical costs entirely.