Many people love having lavender in their homes. It has a delicate fragrance and is revered for its beauty and practical uses. Whether you have just picked a bunch of lavender from your garden or bought some from the market, drying it lets you enjoy it in different ways all year.
Drying lavender keeps its wonderful smell and beautiful look, which is an easy and satisfying process. In this guide, we will go over 12 simple methods on how to dry lavender at home.
Drying lavender by hanging it upside down is an easy way to keep its scent and color. Start by gathering small bunches of lavender and tie them tightly at the bottom.
Then, find a cool, dark place with good airflow, like a closet or a shed, to hang the bundles upside down so the essential oils stay in the buds as they dry. In about 2-4 weeks, the lavender should be dry and crisp. You can make sachets or wreaths once you have the dry lavender flower.
If you want a faster method to dry lavender flowers than air drying, you can pop them in the oven. Start by setting your oven to 100°F (38°C). While it is warming up, spread the lavender sprigs out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
This keeps the lavender from sticking and helps it dry evenly. Place the sheet in the oven, and keep the door slightly open so the moisture can escape. Check on the lavender every 15-30 minutes. It usually takes about 2-4 hours for the lavender to dry out.
You can also use a microwave if you do not have an oven. Select fresh, clean, and dry lavender sprigs and arrange them between two paper towels to absorb moisture and protect them from direct heat.
Place the paper towel sandwich in the microwave and set it to a low-power setting. Microwave in 30-second intervals, checking the lavender after each session to avoid burning. It takes 1-2 minutes for the lavender to dry completely. Once done, the lavender should feel crisp and dry, with its fragrance preserved.
For this method, set the dehydrator to 95°F (35°C) and spread the lavender sprigs in a single layer on the dehydrator trays, ensuring they do not overlap, as this allows for even drying. Close the dehydrator and let it run for 24 to 48 hours.
The drying time may vary depending on the humidity and the thickness of the lavender stems. Periodically check the lavender; it is ready when the stems are brittle, and the flowers easily crumble between your fingers. You can make a potpourri or a sachet with the dried lavender.
To dry lavender using a window screen, lay the screen flat and spread the lavender stems out in a single layer. Place the screen in a warm, dry place without direct sunlight, like a breezy room or a covered porch.
It usually takes about 2-3 weeks for the lavender to dry, depending on the room’s humidity and temperature. Check the lavender occasionally by rubbing the buds between your fingers. They should crumble easily. Once it is dried, transfer the lavender to an airtight container to keep its scent and color.
You can also use a herb drying rack to dry lavender stems. Lay the lavender sprigs in a single layer on the drying rack's mesh trays to allow air to circulate freely around the herbs, promoting even drying and reducing the risk of mold.
Place the rack in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, which can cause the lavender to lose color and fragrance. Over the course of 1-2 weeks, check the lavender periodically. It is ready when the stems snap easily, and the flowers crumble.
If you have heard of attic drying and are wondering how to dry lavender plants in the attic, it is a simple method. An attic is effective for drying lavender buds because of the natural warmth and airflow found in these spaces.
To start, bundle the lavender stems with a rubber band or string and hang these bundles upside down from a hook, nail, or clothesline in the attic. Over 2-3 weeks, the warmth of the attic will slowly evaporate the moisture from the lavender, preserving its color and fragrance.
The paper bag method involves placing the freshly cut lavender stems inside a paper bag, which helps to keep them clean and dust-free while they dry. Begin by gathering the lavender into small bundles and securing them.
Place these bundles in the paper bag, and then close the bag tightly to ensure no moisture can escape. Hang or place the bag in a warm, dry location without direct sunlight. The bag allows air to circulate while trapping moisture, facilitating an even drying process, which should take 2 to 4 weeks.
In this method, you rely on silica gel crystals, which absorb moisture efficiently. To use these gel crystals, place a layer of the crystals in the bottom of an airtight container. Next, arrange your lavender stems on top, ensuring they do not touch each other to allow for even drying.
Gently pour more silica gel over the lavender until it is completely covered. Seal the container tightly to prevent any moisture from entering. Leave the container in a cool, dry place for about 3-7 days and remove the lavender.
This method might sound a little strange, but it does work. If you are wondering how do you dry lavender with sand, start by choosing a container like a shallow box or tray and pour a layer of sand at the bottom.
Arrange the lavender stems in the sand and cover them with more sand, ensuring they are fully buried but not packed too tightly. Place the container in a warm, dry area with good airflow for about 1-2 weeks. The sand absorbs moisture from the lavender while protecting it from light.
If you want to learn how to dry out lavender with the easiest method, pressing them is the way to go. It helps preserve the delicate flowers while keeping their shape and color. Gather a few stems of lavender and place them between two sheets of parchment paper or tissue without overlapping them too much.
Next, place the parchment paper with the lavender between the pages of a heavy book or inside a flower press. For optimal results, add additional weight. Store the setup in a dry, cool location for 2-3 weeks.
Freeze-drying lavender involves a specialized process that removes moisture by freezing the plant material and then applying a vacuum to sublimate the ice directly into vapor. Start by freezing the lavender at very low temperatures.
Once frozen, place it in a vacuum chamber to reduce the pressure. This step causes the ice within the lavender to bypass the liquid stage and turn directly into vapor. The resulting dried lavender retains its color, shape, and fragrance better than other methods. Freeze drying is typically used in professional settings.
Once the lavender flowers are dry, you should store it properly. Storing dried lavender properly ensures it maintains its fragrance and quality. Here is how to do it:
Storing dried lavender in a cool, dark, and dry place helps preserve its quality and aroma. A cool environment prevents the essential oils in the lavender from evaporating too quickly. Meanwhile, a dark location protects it from sunlight, which can cause fading and loss of fragrance.
Dry conditions are crucial because moisture can lead to mold growth and spoilage. Ideal storage spots include a pantry, cupboard, or closet, away from heat sources and humidity. Ensuring these conditions will help maintain the lavender's vibrant color and strong scent.
When storing dried lavender, maintaining a stable, cool temperature will help preserve its quality. Extreme heat can cause the lavender to lose its fragrance and color, while fluctuating temperatures can lead to condensation inside the storage container, promoting mold growth.
Aim to keep your lavender in a temperature range that is cool but not freezing—ideally between 60-70°F (15-21°C). Avoid placing it near heat sources like radiators or stoves or in areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms or basements. Consistent, moderate temperatures will help maintain the lavender’s essential oils and prevent deterioration.
For storing dried lavender, use airtight containers to maintain quality. Glass jars with tight-fitting lids are ideal as they create a sealed environment that prevents moisture and air from reaching the lavender.
Vacuum-sealed bags are another excellent option; they remove air from the packaging, which helps prevent the lavender from becoming stale or losing its fragrance. The key is to ensure that the container is completely sealed, as exposure to air and moisture can lead to degradation of the lavender’s aroma and color.
Handle dried lavender gently to prevent crushing the delicate flowers. Avoid pressing or squeezing the lavender, as this can release its essential oils prematurely and diminish its fragrance. When transferring lavender to storage containers, use clean hands or soft tools to place the stems and flowers without applying unnecessary pressure.
Additionally, when using dried lavender in crafts or recipes, handle it minimally to preserve its essential oils and aromatic qualities. By treating dried lavender delicately, you ensure it stays fresh and fragrant longer.
Labeling your dried lavender containers helps keep track of what you have and when it was stored. This is especially useful if you have multiple batches or different varieties of lavender.
To label, use a permanent marker or adhesive labels to note the drying date and any additional information, like the lavender’s type or intended use (e.g., cooking, crafts). This way, you can easily identify your lavender and use the oldest batches first, ensuring nothing goes to waste and maintaining the best quality for your projects or recipes.
There are many uses for dried lavender thanks to its pleasant fragrance and versatility. Here are some popular ways to use it:
Potpourri is a blend of dried flowers, herbs, and spices that add fragrance to indoor spaces. To use dried lavender in potpourri, combine it with other aromatic dried ingredients like rose petals and cloves.
You can mix these ingredients in a bowl or place them in decorative sachets. The lavender adds a soothing, floral scent that enhances the fragrance of the potpourri. Over time, as the scent of the potpourri fades, you can refresh the potpourri by adding a few drops of lavender essential oil to boost its aroma.
In aromatherapy, dried lavender is used to create a calming and soothing atmosphere. To use it, place dried lavender in small sachets or fabric pouches and scatter them around your home, such as on shelves, under pillows, or in drawers.
Alternatively, you can put it in bowls or decorative jars. The lavender’s natural oils release a gentle, relaxing fragrance that can help reduce stress and promote a sense of tranquility. This method is simple and effective for creating a serene environment without synthetic air fresheners.
Incorporating dried lavender into culinary recipes adds a unique floral flavor and aroma to your dishes. For instance, you can infuse dried lavender into syrups, teas, or beverages, providing a subtle, soothing taste. To use it in baking, finely grind the dried lavender and mix it into doughs or batters for cookies.
Lavender pairs well with flavors like lemon, honey, and chocolate. When using dried lavender in cooking, use it sparingly, as its flavor can be quite strong and may overpower other ingredients. Start with a small amount and adjust according to taste.
Dried lavender in crafts, like homemade candles, soaps, or bath salts, adds a lovely fragrance and a touch of natural beauty. For candles, mix dried lavender into the wax before pouring it into molds, or sprinkle it on top for a decorative effect. In soaps, lavender can be embedded into the bars or mixed into the soap base for a soothing scent.
For bath salts, combine dried lavender with Epsom salts and essential oils, creating a relaxing and aromatic bath experience. These crafts utilize lavender's pleasant aroma and add an artisanal touch.
Creating homemade gifts with dried lavender is a charming and personalized way to give something special. You can make lavender sachets by sewing small fabric pouches and filling them with dried lavender buds.
These sachets are great for adding a lovely scent to drawers, and closets or even as a comforting item to keep by your bedside. Another idea is to prepare lavender bath bags by placing dried lavender in muslin bags or tea infusers, which can be dropped into a bath for a soothing, aromatic experience.
Dried lavender can be used as a pest repellent. Lavender has a strong fragrance known to repel pests like moths, ants, and fleas. To use it, place small sachets or pouches of dried lavender in closets, drawers, and storage areas where you want to keep pests away.
You can also sprinkle dried lavender around your home or garden. For added effectiveness, combine it with other natural repellents such as rosemary or mint. The scent of lavender disrupts the insects' sensory systems, making these areas less attractive.
Using dried lavender in decorative arrangements adds a touch of natural beauty and fragrance to your home. You can create simple yet elegant displays by arranging dried lavender in vases, alone or mixed with other dried flowers and herbs.
Lavender can also be used in wreaths, where its fragrant stems are woven into a circular form, perfect for hanging on doors or walls. For a more creative approach, combine dried lavender with pinecones, berries, or ribbons to make unique and personalized decorations.
Dried lavender is great for making beauty products because of its soothing effects on the skin. For face masks, you can grind the lavender into a fine powder and mix it with yogurt or honey. This helps calm and gently exfoliate your skin.
When adding it to scrubs, lavender provides a nice, natural fragrance and texture that helps remove dead skin cells, leaving your skin feeling refreshed. In body lotions, you can infuse dried lavender into oils or creams.
Infusing lavender into homemade cleaning solutions is a natural way to enhance your cleaning routine with a pleasant scent. To do this, you can add dried lavender to your homemade cleaning sprays or solutions.
Simply steep a handful of dried lavender in hot water, strain it and use the infused water as a base for your cleaning solution. You can also add a few drops of lavender essential oil to your cleaning mix for an extra boost of fragrance. Lavender leaves a fresh scent and has antibacterial properties, which can help disinfect surfaces.
Using dried lavender to relax is both simple and effective. For a soothing bath, just add dried lavender to warm water. Its calming scent can help you unwind and create a relaxing, spa-like atmosphere at home. You can also brew dried lavender into a calming tea.
Steep a few tablespoons in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Drinking this tea before bed can help you sleep better, or you can sip it during the day to ease stress. Lavender’s natural calming effect is a great way to feel more relaxed.
