A room spray is the easiest way to change how your home smells in about ten seconds. There's no flame, no wait for wax to melt and no commitment. But a few small habits make the difference between a soft, pleasant scent and one that's either invisible or overpowering.
Here's how we use ours, and how we suggest you use yours.
How many sprays should you use?
Start with less than you think. Our 100ml room sprays are designed so that 3 to 4 sprays lightly scent a room, linen, a wardrobe or soft furnishings. You can always add another spritz, but you can't take one back.
As a rough guide:
| Space | Starting point |
|---|---|
| Bathroom, hallway or powder room | 2 to 3 sprays |
| Bedroom or study | 3 to 4 sprays |
| Living room or open-plan space | 3 to 4 sprays, then check and add more if needed |
Larger or well-ventilated rooms may need a little more; the only real test is your nose. Walk out and come back in to see how it smells with fresh senses.
Where to spray
In the air, at head height or above
Hold the bottle upright and mist into the middle of the room, aiming slightly upwards so the fine mist can drift and settle. Avoid spraying directly at a person, a pet or food.
On linen and soft furnishings
Our sprays are described as room and linen sprays, so you can mist them onto cushions, throws, curtains, wardrobes and bedding. Hold the bottle about 20 to 30 cm away so you get a light dusting rather than a wet patch. If you're unsure about a delicate fabric, test a small hidden spot first and let it dry.
In cupboards and wardrobes
A spritz in a wardrobe or linen cupboard gives clothes and towels a subtle lift. It's a nice trick when you're packing away summer clothes or getting a spare room ready for guests.
When a room spray beats a candle
Candles are wonderful for atmosphere, but they aren't always the right tool. A room spray is the better choice when:
- You need a quick refresh before guests knock on the door.
- You're somewhere you can't (or shouldn't) light a flame, like a rental with restrictions, a shared space or a room you're about to leave.
- It's a hot Australian summer day and you'd rather not add the warmth of a flame.
- You want to scent a space for just a moment, like a hallway or bathroom.
If you're still deciding between the two, our post on candle or room spray compares them in more depth.
How to layer room spray with a candle
Because every Petrichor spray has a matching candle, you can layer the same fragrance for a richer, longer-lasting scent. Try:
- Spray 3 to 4 times in the room about 10 minutes before guests arrive.
- Light the matching candle in the same room (away from where you've just sprayed) for ambience.
- Use the spray on its own in other rooms, like the hallway or bathroom, for a consistent feel through the house.
Some pairings to try:
- Rainstorm Room Spray with the Rainstorm candle: ozone, lemon and bergamot over cedar and musk for a rain-washed feel.
- Orange Clove & Cedarleaf Room Spray with the Orange, Clove & Cedarleaf candle: a warm, welcoming scent for entertaining.
- Australian Bush Room Spray with the Australian Bush candle: eucalyptus and lemon myrtle for a fresh, green home.
You can find more ideas in our guide to layering candle scents.
A 5-minute "guests are coming" routine
- Open a window or door for a minute to let fresh air in.
- Clear the kitchen bin and wipe down the benches.
- Spray 3 to 4 times in the entry and living area.
- Mist a throw or cushion on the couch.
- Light a candle on a stable, heat-resistant surface, well away from curtains and other flammable items.
This one is especially handy over the Christmas season, when the house is busy and the visitors keep coming. Our hostess gift guide is also a handy read if you're on the other side of the front door.
Tips for making a room spray last
- Store it upright in a cool spot out of direct sun.
- Replace the cap after each use.
- Don't over-spray. Three to four sprays is plenty for most rooms.
- Bring it with you. The 100ml bottle is travel-friendly, so it's useful for a hotel room, a holiday rental or a guest bedroom.
Safety notes
Whenever you're using fragrance products and candles together, keep flames in mind. Fire Rescue Victoria advises that candles should be watched closely, blown out before you leave home or go to sleep, and kept at least one metre from curtains and other combustible items (source). The National Candle Association also recommends keeping candles away from drafts and never leaving a burning candle unattended. As a precaution, don't spray anything close to a lit candle or other flame. [CONFIRM: any label or ingredient warnings about spraying near flames, and fabric suitability, to add here.]
Frequently asked questions
How many sprays of room spray should I use?
Three to four sprays is a good starting point for most rooms with our 100ml sprays.
Can I use room spray on bedding and cushions?
Our sprays are described as room and linen sprays and can be misted onto linen and soft furnishings. Spray from a distance, and spot-test delicate fabrics.
Can I use a room spray and a candle at the same time?
Yes, and layering the matching scent can make it richer. Keep the spray away from the flame.
How much is a Petrichor room spray?
Each 100ml room spray is $24.99. The Signature Room Spray Bundle has four sprays for $89.96, saving $10.
Find your spray
Browse the full range of Petrichor room sprays, or grab the Most Loved Room Spray Collection if you want to start with our favourites.
