Woodstove Simmer Pot?

Okay, so after trying out my first wood stove simmer pot experiment, I learned a few things I wanted to share with you all! Using a cast iron simmer pot, just like the one in my picture with those bright orange slices and lovely botanicals, is actually perfect for this. It holds heat wonderfully and slowly releases those amazing aromas. One of the biggest benefits I found, besides the incredible cozy wood stove scents, is the added humidity. Wood stoves can really dry out the air in your home, especially during winter. A simmering pot helps put a little moisture back into the air, which is great for comfort and even for your houseplants! When it comes to ingredients, the possibilities are endless! I started with orange slices and some dried botanicals, but you can get so creative. Think cinnamon sticks, cloves, apple peels, sprigs of rosemary or pine, cranberries – even a few drops of your favorite essential oils once it's gently simmering. Just be mindful of what you put in; you want things that smell good when heated and are safe. Now, for some practical tips based on my experience. Since the top of a wood stove gets *extremely hot*, as I mentioned in my initial post, it's super important to keep an eye on the water level. I found myself refilling it more often than I expected! You definitely don't want it to boil dry. A good heavy cast iron pot helps with even heat distribution, but constant monitoring is key to keeping it safely simmering. Another thing to consider is placement. I put mine right on top, but if your stove has different heat zones, experiment a little to find the 'sweet spot' for a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil. For a long-lasting scent, I've heard some people add a splash of vanilla extract or even a tiny bit of alcohol (like vodka) to help disperse the aroma, but I haven't tried that yet! My simple oranges and botanicals did the trick for a lovely, natural smell. Always ensure you have good ventilation, especially when adding new ingredients, just in case. And remember, the beauty of a wood stove simmer pot is how adaptable it is. You can change your 'recipe' with the seasons! Fall calls for pumpkin spice vibes, winter for pine and cranberry, and spring for citrus and floral notes. It’s such a simple, cost-effective way to make your home feel inviting and smell wonderful without harsh chemicals. Give it a try, and let me know your favorite combinations!