Create a Cinnamon-Scented Simmer

Create a cozy ambiance in your home without the use of store-bought air fresheners packed with synthetic fragrance. Add water to a large simmer pot and toss in a few cinnamon sticks. Bring to a boil and then reduce to low heat, allowing to simmer. This will release the aromas into the air, naturally scenting your space, says cleaning professional Dawn Arias-Spinelli.

Add to Homemade Candles

Try mixing cinnamon in melted wax (or placing whole sticks on top) to add the spice’s scent, color, and warmth to your homemade candles. You can learn all about how to craft basic poured candles here.

Make a DIY Cleaning Paste

Create a natural cleaning paste with just a few common ingredients. Combine baking soda, water, and cinnamon to create a scented paste that’ll tackle stubborn grease and grime on areas like your stovetop.

Wear rubber cleaning gloves while applying, and wipe away with paper towels or reusable cleaning clothes. (As a bonus, that inviting cinnamon scent will linger long after you’ve finished cleaning.)

Naturally Repeal Pests

Cinnamon can be a natural deterrent for pests, shares Arias-Spinell. Placing a few sticks in a fruit bowl can help prevent it from becoming a hangout for fruit flies. Noticed ants in your kitchen? Ground cinnamon can also be sprinkled along their pathway to deter the litter buggers.

Craft Christmas Ornaments

Mix together ground cinnamon and applesauce until a paste is formed. Roll out the mixture, and use cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Poke a hole at the top of each for hanging, and bake over low heat until completely dry—typically around two hours, checking frequently to prevent burning. Paint and hang.

Deodorize Carpeting and Upholstery

According to Arias-Spinelli, cinnamon can be used to deodorize carpeting and upholstery naturally. Simply sprinkle over dry, non-white colored rugs and upholstery, let sit for about 15 minutes (ensuring there is no foot traffic), and vacuum up. (Try a patch test in an inconspicuous spot first to ensure the cinnsmon doesn’t stain.)

Freshen Up Drawers

Fill a small fabric pouch or an old (but clean) sock with cinnamon sticks and dried cloves. Tie off the opening, and then nestle them into dresser drawers where they’ll leave their subtle scent on the garments or items stashed inside.

Employ As a Natural Fungicide

Mix one teaspoon of cinnamon with two cups of water, let sit for at least a few hours, strain, and then spray onto leaves and soil to keep them from becoming breeding grounds for something other than gorgeous greenery.