Lavender water is a wonderful way to scent your linens and clothing. Simply spray a little on any fabric before ironing, and your wardrobe will be filled with a fresh lavender aroma for several days. You can also use this water as a room spray or for your furniture. If you have trouble sleeping, spraying lavender water on your pillow can help you relax and drift off comfortably.
Using Lavender Flowers
Step 1. Gather all the necessary materials.
Collect everything you will need. Lavender water made from natural flowers will be less concentrated compared to that made from essential oil. Essential oil is a distilled, concentrated extract of lavender, while the flowers will give the water a lighter, yet pleasant scent. You will need:
- A bunch of fresh or dried lavender stems (about 2 tablespoons of buds)
- 1/2 cup of water
- A glass bowl
- A spray bottle
- A funnel
- A fine sieve
Step 2. Remove the lavender buds from the stems.
Separate the lavender buds from the stems. Lavender flowers grow along a straight stem, and for making the water, we only need the buds, which contain the fragrance. To extract them, hold the stem over the glass bowl and gently slide your fingers from the base to the tip, allowing the buds to fall into the bowl.
- You can also buy pre-cleaned dried lavender buds from specialty stores or online shops.
- This is a great way to use lavender if it grows in your garden.
Step 3. Boil the water.
Place the water on the stove and bring it to a boil. Pour the water into a small saucepan and heat it over high heat. Do not leave it unattended or it may evaporate.
Step 4. Pour the boiling water over the lavender buds.
Carefully pour the boiling water over the buds to start soaking them. The heat will help extract the oils from the flowers, and the water will absorb the lavender scent.
Step 5. Cover the bowl and let it steep.
Cover the bowl and let the buds steep for a few hours or overnight. This is similar to brewing tea—allow the buds to infuse until the water cools.
Step 6. Strain the buds from the water.
Strain the buds through a sieve. Place a fine sieve over a clean bowl and gently pour the infusion to separate the buds. Discard them as they will no longer have a scent—the aromas have transferred to the water.
Step 7. Transfer the water into a spray bottle using a funnel.
Using a funnel, carefully pour the lavender water into the spray bottle. Your homemade solution is now ready for use to scent linens, as a room spray, or for aromatherapy.
- To prolong shelf life, add 30 grams of witch hazel or vodka and shake the bottle well for even distribution.
- You can also store it in the fridge for freshness.
Using Lavender Essential Oil
Step 1. Gather all the necessary materials.
Collect all the necessary ingredients. Making lavender water is very simple and requires just a few basic components, most of which can be found at craft stores or health food stores. If you have trouble finding something, check online stores. You will need:
- Lavender essential oil
- Distilled water
- Witch hazel or vodka
- A glass jar with a lid
- A spray bottle
- A funnel
Step 2. Mix the ingredients in the glass jar.
Add the ingredients into the glass jar, ensuring the correct proportions. This is important to ensure your water has a pleasant scent and is not overly concentrated. Mix the following ingredients:
- 85 grams of distilled water (regular tap water can be used if distilled is unavailable)
- 28-30 grams of witch hazel or vodka (this will act as a preservative and help the lavender oil distribute evenly)
- 10 drops of lavender essential oil
Step 3. Shake the jar.
Close the jar and shake it well to mix all the ingredients. Witch hazel or vodka will help effectively combine the oil with the water.
Step 4. Transfer the mixture into a spray bottle through the funnel.
Using a funnel, carefully pour the lavender water into the spray bottle. If there’s any liquid left, you can store it in the jar until the main batch runs out.
Step 5. Use your lavender water.
Use the lavender water to spray on bedding, clothes, furniture, or pillows. It’s a wonderful way to relax and refresh the atmosphere in your home.
- Lavender water can also help with headaches.
- Spray it on your skin before going outside to use it as a natural insect repellent.
