There’s something magical about walking into a luxury guesthouse and being enveloped by a subtle, welcoming fragrance. At 19 on Bloekom, our guests often comment on how inviting our spaces smell. Here’s how we do it — and how you can recreate that experience at home.
1. Start With Clean Air
No amount of fragrance can mask stale air. Open windows daily, even just for 15 minutes, to circulate fresh air through your home. This is the foundation of any pleasant-smelling space.
2. Invest in Quality Reed Diffusers
Unlike candles, reed diffusers work continuously without supervision. Place them in high-traffic areas like entrance halls and bathrooms. We recommend flipping the reeds twice weekly for consistent scent throw.
3. Scent Your Linens Naturally
Add a few drops of lavender or eucalyptus essential oil to wool dryer balls. Your sheets, towels, and blankets will carry a subtle, spa-like fragrance that guests at 19 on Bloekom always love.
4. The Simmering Pot Trick
Fill a pot with water, add citrus peels, cinnamon sticks, and rosemary, then let it simmer on low. This creates an instant welcoming aroma — perfect before guests arrive.
5. Don’t Neglect the Bathroom
Place a small dish of baking soda with 5-10 drops of essential oil behind the toilet. It absorbs odours while releasing a pleasant scent. Replace monthly.
6. Freshen Carpets and Rugs
Mix baking soda with a few drops of your favourite essential oil. Sprinkle on carpets, leave for 30 minutes, then vacuum. This removes trapped odours and leaves a light fragrance.
7. Use Linen Spray on Soft Furnishings
A light mist on curtains, cushions, and throws refreshes any room instantly. Make your own: mix water with a splash of vodka (it helps the scent last) and 20 drops of essential oil in a spray bottle.
8. Strategic Candle Placement
Quality candles in glass containers throw scent further. Place them in corners where the warmth from the flame pushes fragrance into the room. Always extinguish after 3-4 hours.
9. Fresh Flowers and Plants
Nothing beats natural fragrance. Jasmine, gardenias, and fresh herbs like basil or mint add life and subtle scent to any space. Change water every two days to prevent that stagnant smell.
10. The Signature Scent Approach
Hotels and guesthouses often use one consistent fragrance throughout their property. Choose a scent that represents your home — something guests will associate with visiting you. At 19 on Bloekom, our signature blend includes notes of fresh linen and subtle botanicals.
Our Top Scent Recommendations by Room
- Entrance: Citrus or green tea — welcoming and fresh
- Living areas: Vanilla or sandalwood — warm and inviting
- Bedrooms: Lavender or chamomile — calming and restful
- Bathrooms: Eucalyptus or mint — clean and spa-like
- Kitchen: Lemon or herbs — fresh and appetising
Want to experience the welcoming atmosphere of 19 on Bloekom firsthand? Book your stay and see (and smell!) what makes our guesthouse special.