By Michael Dinich | Wealth of Geeks
People put a lot of pride and hard work into their homes, so of course, a compliment from guests really solidifies that all the hard work has paid off. But surprisingly, 43% percent of Americans say one of the best home compliments they can receive is “your home smells so good!” according to new research.
A survey of 2,000 adults looked at how home fragrances play a role in cleaning routines and found that 55% say that the way a home smells is even more important than how it looks.
While homeowners love receiving other compliments, such as being told their space has a good vibe and that it looks clean, there’s something about presenting a good-smelling home that means a lot to people.
Clean and Cozy
For many, the work of deep cleaning their home is worth it, as nearly nine in 10 respondents said that nothing feels as good as relaxing in a clean home.
The survey conducted by OnePoll for home fragrance brand Air Wick found that 53% of respondents feel making their home smell good is part of the standard cleaning process, while another 40% revere this as “the cherry on top/finishing touch” of their cleaning routine.
According to respondents, the most common indicators that the home needs to be cleaned are when there’s visible dust or the space is starting to feel unclean. Similarly, 46% feel the need to clean when their home doesn’t smell fresh.
On average, respondents start feeling nervous about how their home looks about half an hour before guests arrive. Therefore, hosts usually prioritize clearing visible clutter, making sure their home smells good, and wiping down countertops and surfaces before having guests over.
These feelings are also amplified when having guests over, as respondents’ main worries when hosting are making sure their home is clean, smells good, and is comfortable for everyone.
“I always say that a home that smells clean also feels clean,” said Courtenay Hartford of The Creek Line House. “For this reason, I prioritize making sure my house smells fresh when I know someone will be coming by. Regular dusting, wiping, and vacuuming make a difference, but I also have strategically placed scented candles at my home’s entrance points, as well as the other main spaces guests frequently visit. For last-minute and unexpected guests, I have a favorite seasonally-appropriate room spray near the entryway that I can quickly spritz before opening the door.”
Scents Matter
About 44% of those surveyed admitted that they’d judged someone else based on how their home smells, which may be why a similar percentage (43%) are worried about others judging them for the same.
With so many people worrying about how their homes smell, it makes sense that many respondents said they would use candles, air fresheners, and diffusers to help set the mood and ensure that their home smells good for their guests.
One in seven respondents want the smell of their home to give off “carefree” vibes, and only 12% want to come off as unique.
“I always worry about how my house smells, especially when expecting guests,” said Adriana Copaceanu of Backyard Garden Lover. “If I know well in advance, the best way to make the home inviting is to bake some bread. I have a bread machine, and it takes me two minutes to put the ingredients in. In about 3.5 hours, I have freshly baked bread and a deliciously smelling house.”
If I don’t have a lot of notice, I put on a diffuser with some essential oil,” continued Copaceanu. “I prefer lavender oil for a calming atmosphere, but depending on the mood, I’ve used peppermint and citrus oils, too. I’ve been known to spray a few spritzes of lavender hydrosol when I see unexpected company driving up our road: hydrosol has a very mild smell, so it’s not overpowering: just a little breath of fresh air.”
For some, this vibe comes across with the “signature smell” of their home, naming “fresh flowers,” “strawberries and bananas,” “after the rain,” and “bread baking” as their home’s signature scents.
To help them achieve this, respondents would want their home to smell like fresh linen, ocean breeze, lavender, vanilla, lemon, or citrus
“Since 80% of respondents prioritize long-lasting fragrance, we understand the need for a variety of scents that last to match your own personal preferences,” said Julia Mellberg, Marketing Director of Air Wick. “The fragrance you add to your home, whether you prefer floral lavender or tropical citrus, has the power to influence and uplift everyone who enters. Choosing a signature fragrance gives your space an extra dash of vibrancy every day and elevates your overall home experience.”
