A simmer pot is a candle alternative that involves gently simmering fragrant ingredients, such as herbs, spices, and fruits, in water.
It’s that time of year when you may be feeling the urge to light up one (or more) scented candles around your home. You may notice shelves full of candles at the store or on your social media feeds.
If you don’t already own candles or are looking for an alternative, consider making a simmer pot. Keep reading to learn more about them, as well as how to make one yourself.
A key difference between candles and simmer pots is the presence of an open flame.
Lighting the wick on a candle can release by-products that are potentially harmful to your health. However, a 2021 study found that the emissions of most of these chemicals were well within a safe range, with a few exceptions.
Emissions are also
On the other hand, simmer pots do not involve candle wax or an open flame. Fragrant ingredients, such as herbs or sliced fruits, are added to a pot of water at low heat.
While candles can be expensive, simmer pots are a cost-effective and customizable option. You can use almost anything you have on hand to make a simmer pot.
To make a simmer pot, start by placing a small to medium-sized pot of water on low heat. If you have one, you can also place a small bowl or jar of water under a candle warmer.
Once your water is in contact with a heat source, you can add the ingredients you would like to the pot. Some options you may consider include:
- sliced fruit, such as lemons, limes, oranges, and apples
- herbs, such as mint
- whole cinnamon sticks
- whole peppercorns
- whole coffee beans
- vanilla extract or vanilla beans
- tea leaves or tea bags
Of course, you are not limited to these options. You can experiment with different ingredients and choose which ones you like best.
You may consider rolling citrus fruits, such as lemons and limes, against the counter with the palm of your hand until they become more pliant to the touch. This will help the fruit release more juice.
You may also consider muddling herbs like mint before adding them to the pot. This can help them become more fragrant.
Don’t throw out those ingredients!
Once you are done using your simmer pot, don’t throw everything out!
If they are sliced thinly enough, you can put the sliced fruit down your garbage disposal. This, combined with the warm water, may help mask any odors in your garbage disposal.
Like anything involving a heat source, it is important to practice proper safety precautions when using a simmer pot.
Do not leave a simmer pot unmonitored. If you are leaving your house or the area where you are using your simmer pot, turn off the heat.
If you have pets or small children, keep a close eye on them to ensure they do not come into contact with the simmer pot while it is in use. Ingredients like citrus fruit can be harmful to dogs and cats, causing adverse effects such as stomach upset.
You should also refrain from consuming the contents of the simmer pot after use.
Simmer pots are a cost-conscious and adaptable alternative to candles. They are simple to make, as they involve adding various fragrant ingredients to a pot of water at low heat.
Whether you’re looking for a less costly alternative to candles or just want to change things up, consider making a simmer pot for your next gathering or simply because.