As the days grow shorter, and the air turns crisper, nature paints a vibrant tapestry of warm hues, signaling the arrival of the autumn season. Amidst this transformation, many scents emerge, each one evoking a unique facet of fall’s embrace. From the earthy notes of fallen leaves to the sweet embrace of pumpkin spice, the fragrances of autumn are unique and bring a sense of nostalgia. Whether you’re looking to rent an apartment in Spokane, WA, or purchase a home in Valparaiso, IN, this Redfin article will uncover twenty inviting scents that define this season no matter where you live or plan on moving. So, prepare to embark on a sensory journey as we delve into autumn aromas.
1. Tonka bean
Tonka bean, derived from the seeds of the Dipteryx odorata tree native to South America, exudes a rich, warm, and slightly sweet scent reminiscent of vanilla and almond.
PAIRFUM London shares, “My favorite fragrance for this coming fall is tonka bean with its vanillic sweetness, notes of coumarin, and spicy hints. It is a great note when the seasons change, and we like switching from light & fresh summery to warm and wintery notes.”
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As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisper, there’s a familiar fragrance that sweeps through the autumn breeze, signaling the arrival of the fall season. Among the quintessential scents that define this time of year, none are as iconic and warmly embraced as the inviting aroma of pumpkin.
“Sweet pumpkin scents always let me think of the scent of autumn and harvest happiness,” remarks HL Candles.
Pumpkin spice
Pumpkin spice is a harmonious blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This aromatic combination imparts a cozy and comforting scent and brings a delightful warmth to everything from lattes to baked goods, making it an integral part of the fall experience.
“Our favorite scent for the Fall season is undoubtedly pumpkin spice. It’s a timeless favorite that encapsulates the essence of autumn with its rich blend of ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. When you experience pumpkin spice with a scent diffuser, it instantly transports you to cozy moments, pumpkin patches, and warm gatherings around the fireplace,” shares Aroma Designers.
Adirondack Fragrance Farm adds, “This scent uniquely captures the spirit of fall, intertwining the comforting spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves with a subtle sweetness, evoking memories of pumpkin pies slowly baking in the oven and creating a cocoon of coziness that is synonymous with the season.”
“When the leaves are starting to change colors, and the weather becomes cooler, I’m always burning a pumpkin spice candle,” remarks Great South Bay Candle Company. “As this autumn scent fills my home, it reminds me that it’s the start of warm cozy nights by the fireplace.”
Pumpkin and chai
The combination of pumpkin and chai offers a delightful fusion of flavors and aromatic spices. The earthy richness of pumpkin complements the bold and invigorating notes of chai.
Michelle Schreiber of Abboo Candle Co notes, “Pumpkin and Chai is the ultimate scent for fall. With the enchanting aroma of freshly baked pumpkin, combined with hints of nutmeg, cinnamon, and creamy vanilla undertones, it creates a cozy and comforting atmosphere that perfectly captures the essence of the season.”
Pumpkin roll
The scent of freshly baked pumpkin roll, mingling with notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, fills the air with an invitation to savor the comforts of the season.
“A pumpkin roll candle is a must-have fall favorite because it fills your home with the irresistible aroma of spiced pumpkin and sweet cream cheese frosting,” states Mountain City Candles. “It instantly conjures images of cozy gatherings, pumpkin patches, and Thanksgiving dinners, embodying autumn’s warmth and comfort.”
3. Leaves
The scent of leaves in the fall carries a distinctive earthy, slightly smoky note, evoking images of freshly fallen foliage covering the ground.
“Our favorite fall scent is leaves. It embodies all fall magic, from fresh apples to the fresh outdoors,” remarks Cardinal Candle Company. “It reminds us of the beautiful fall colors, walking through piles of them, and the sounds they make when you ride over them on your bike.”
4. Apple
Whether freshly picked from an orchard or baked into a warm pie, the sweet, slightly tart fragrance of apples carries a comforting familiarity, conjuring memories of harvest time.
Apple pie
The scent of apple pie, with its intoxicating blend of cinnamon, baked apples, and buttery pastry, is a hallmark of the season.
My favorite scent for fall is the warm and comforting aroma of freshly baked apple pie,” says Patrick Coyne of Santa Ana River Valley Honey Company. “Combining cinnamon, nutmeg, and sweet apples creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It instantly reminds me of family gatherings and the changing leaves outside.”
“Once lit, it’s like having your home slowly fill up with the delicious aroma of a homemade apple pie, with all those cozy spices and maple goodness wafting from the oven. And here’s the best part—it’s not overly sweet, and a fantastic hint of bourbon adds a delightful twist,” adds Candlefy.
Cran-apple crisp
“Cran-apple crisp is my favorite fall scent because it reminds me of my favorite time of year,” shares Happy Scents Co. “The aroma of Cran-Apple Crisp evokes memories of gatherings with family and friends during the holiday season, making it the perfect scent to use while planning Fall and Winter activities.”
Apple Cider Donut
The scent of an apple cider donut is a mix of warm, spiced apples and sweet, fried dough. This irresistible smell creates images of bustling orchards and charming cider mills.
“On my first trip to the United States, my in-laws proudly gave me a tour of their small apple orchard in Wisconsin. They sold the apples and cider to different farmers’ markets around town.
Now, every time I light one of my Apple Cider Donut Candles, I am transported back to that cozy Wisconsin farm where I not only fell in love with a new culture but also found a second family,” remarks Aroma 4480.
Apple cinnamon
The combination of apple and cinnamon creates a blend of sweet, fruity notes with warm, spicy undertones.
Grace Young of FragranceAdvice shares, “Apple cinnamon is a classic fall scent that combines the fruity aroma of apples with the warm, spicy notes of cinnamon. This popular blend is often found in seasonal candles, room sprays, and potpourri, providing a comforting and inviting atmosphere. The scent captures the essence of fall activities like apple picking and baking, making it a go-to choice for those looking to evoke the season’s coziness.”
5. Firewood
The scent of firewood carries a distinctive, earthy aroma infused with hints of resin and smoky undertones. It evokes the cozy ambiance of crackling fires, warming hearths, and the comforting embrace of a warm home.
“My favorite scent for the fall is firewood. It always makes me feel like making s’mores,” says Eli Morr of Peacesake Candles.
6. Cinnamon
Cinnamon boasts a warm, spicy aroma reminiscent of freshly ground bark, evoking images of bustling kitchens and delectable baked goods.
“A scent that reminds me of fall is Cinnamon. It reminds me of warmth and coziness, states Tiffany Williams of Glitz and Glam By Tiff. “As a fashionista, I love layering jackets and sweaters, and cinnamon definitely reminds me of that.”
“Cinnamon is one of our top choices for the fall season regarding scents. Its warm and spicy aroma brings to mind baked goods and the fragrances of autumn spices. This scent can help create a cozy atmosphere and is often connected with holiday festivities,” notes Candle Crowd.
Cinnamon and clove
The combination of cinnamon and clove creates a tantalizing blend of warm, spicy notes with a touch of earthiness.
“Our favorite fall scent is the rich aroma of cinnamon and cloves, shares Stone Candles. “It’s our favorite because it evokes a sense of warmth and comfort, making the surroundings feel cozy during the cooler autumn days.”
7. Hearth scents
Autumn hearth – apple, cinnamon, and tonka
“There are so many fall scents that I love, but one that stands out to me is the fragrance of Autumn hearth,” remarks Tanya of Scentsy Canada. “This scent reminds me of Fall because of its inviting fragrance blend of apple, cinnamon, and tonka. When I warm this bar in my warmer, it creates an atmosphere that perfectly encapsulates the season’s essence.”
Harvest hearth – orange spice, fir, pine, and smoky fireplace
“Harvest Hearth is my favorite candle for Fall because its blend of orange spice, fir, pine, and smoky fireplace notes creates a warm and inviting atmosphere reminiscent of cozy holiday nights. The fragrance evokes the comforting feeling of sipping wine by the fireplace, making it perfect for the Fall season when the weather turns cooler and we seek comfort indoors,” says Endora Candles.
8. Plum
The scent of plum is a luscious, fruity aroma that carries sweet and tart notes. It portrays a ripe, succulent fruit hanging from branches in orchards and is often associated with the late summer and early autumn harvest.
Jo Macfarlane shares, “The scent that reminds me of fall is the sweet and luscious plum. It captivates us with its deep purple and honey-scented flesh, rich, captivating sweetness, and underlying tang that is sweet and juicy. It’s the last kiss goodbye to Summer before we nestle in the cool arms of Autumn.”
9. Cardamom and clove
The sweet, slightly citrusy notes of cardamom harmonize beautifully with the bold, peppery scent of clove, resulting in an inviting scent that adds depth and complexity.
“Cardamom and clove is a soothing blend of chai-inspired scents that will transport you to a world adorned with the vibrant hues of fall foliage and cocooned in cozy comfort,” raves Bright Endeavors. “Be sure to let the enchanting aroma guide you through the season as you create unforgettable autumn memories with this delightful fall fragrance.”
10. Cranberry and wood
Kate De Palma of Scented Designs remarks, “For Fall, we love a fragrance that transitions us from summer into the cold winter months, something that is cozy while still fresh and uplifting. Our favorite fall scent is a cranberry and woods blend. Together, tart cranberry and fresh pine make us think of scarves and flannel, reminding us of Thanksgiving spent with loved ones and long walks on a crisp Fall day.”
11. Chai coffee bean
Chai coffee bean is a fusion of two beloved flavors: chai tea and coffee. This aromatic blend combines the robust, invigorating essence of coffee beans with chai tea’s aromatic and spiced profile.
12. Almond macaron
While almond macaron isn’t typically associated with a specific scent, its popularity during the fall season is often attributed to its warm and comforting flavors. When baked, almond macarons release a delightful fragrance that combines roasted almonds’ toasty notes with the pastry shell’s sweet, caramelized scent.
FishAndChipCraftCo suggests to “Light an almond macaron candle if you want to transport yourself to a walk by your favorite bakery on a crisp Fall day. Notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, almond, vanilla, and sugar will leave your guests wondering what delicious treats you have baking in the oven.”
13. Blueberry cobbler
Blueberry cobbler is considered a great fall scent due to its association with the bountiful harvest season. When baked into a cobbler, they release a delicious aroma that combines the natural sweetness of the fruit with warm, comforting notes of butter, cinnamon, and sugar.
Candle Mayhem shares, “The scent of blueberry cobbler is a great scent for autumn for several reasons. Its sweet and fruity notes evoke the cozy feeling of indulging in warm baked goods during the cooler months. Secondly, the blueberry aroma adds a touch of freshness that beautifully complements the crisp autumn air. Lastly, the scent’s warm undertones provide a comforting and nostalgic ambiance, reminding us of home and gatherings with loved ones, making it a perfect candle for the fall season.”
14. Cedarwood, fir, pine, and spruce
Cedarwood, fir, pine, and spruce collectively form a great fall scent due to their association with the outdoors and the natural elements of autumn. These fragrances evoke the earthy, woody essence of forests, particularly evergreen trees, which are a prominent feature of fall landscapes.
“My favorites for heartwarming home fall scents are the forest aroma of Virginia cedarwood, balsam fir, pine, and an airy lift from black spruce,” shares Jimm Harrison.
“These spicy smells remind us of stealing our high school partner’s sweater and cuddling up under a blanket on a chilly afternoon. Light a candle with these cozy musky fragrances to help you remember every perfect fall day you’ve ever had.”
16. Citrus
Citrus is a great fall scent because it provides a refreshing and invigorating contrast to the cooler, crisp air that characterizes the season.
“While pumpkin spice fanatics may disagree, don’t overlook citrus as the perfect fall scent,” remarks Jamie Kutchman Wynne, CEO of Marigold & Grey. “It’s inherently upbeat, and pairing it with scents like oak, sandalwood, or patchouli, spices it up and sets the tone for that cozy fall weather.”
17. Autumn scents
Autumn nights – rich spices and woody notes
“Autumn Nights is my favorite and the epitome of fall perfection. with its warm and cozy fragrance that evokes the comforting essence of autumn evenings. Its blend of rich spices and woody notes creates an inviting atmosphere ideal for crisp fall nights,” states Grace+Love Candle Co.
Autumn breeze – apple, redwood, and vanilla
Chelux Boutique says, “Our favorite Fall scent is Autumn breeze. It’s the perfect scent to bring the cozy warmth of the changing seasons into your home. It allows you to indulge yourself in the delightful symphony of apple, redwood, and vanilla notes that will transport you to a blissful autumn wonderland.”
18. Kava and kolache
Kava is a traditional South Pacific beverage made from the ground root of the kava plant, known for its relaxing effects, while a kolache is a pastry originating from Central Europe – typically a sweet dough encasing various fillings like fruit, cheese, or meat and enjoyed as a breakfast or dessert treat.
“Our favorite scent for Fall is kava and kolache. The enticing aroma of freshly brewed coffee is combined with the essence of pastries baking in the oven to remind us of special Fall Sunday mornings spent in the kitchen of our beloved Czech grandmother as she prepared her special pastries for the week ahead,” shares Derrick Clark of Belleville Market.
19. Myrrh and Tonka
Myrrh is a natural resin derived from the Commiphora tree, used for its aromatic properties, and historically valued in perfumery, incense, and traditional medicine. Tonka, on the other hand, is a fragrant seed from the Dipteryx odorata tree, prized for its warm, sweet scent reminiscent of vanilla and almonds, commonly used in perfumery and culinary applications
“My favorite scent for welcoming Fall into my home is Myrrh and Tonka,” notes Calon Home. “It’s a luxurious, balanced, and complex fragrance, and it feels like you’re being enveloped in a cozy and comforting hug.”
20. Marshmallow fireside
“Our favorite scent and best seller for the Fall is Marshmallow Fireside. It is our favorite scent because it gives the nostalgic memories of being around a bonfire, with its blend of toasted marshmallows, fire-roasted vanilla, and smoldering woods,” shares Kokoann Scented Candles.
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Ryan Castillo is a Marketing Manager and has been working at Redfin for the last four years. He is based in New York City and enjoys attending broadway shows, playing pickleball, and collecting vinyl records. His dream home would be a large cape cod-style house by the beach.
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