2 min
Once a purely functional category, air care is now stepping into the spotlight as a key player in the wellness and lifestyle space. With the global market expected to reach €17 billion by 2029, and Europe representing a solid 24% of that share, the way we scent our homes is becoming more intentional, emotional, and elevated.
Today’s consumers are looking for more than just odor elimination. They want long-lasting freshness, mood-enhancing experiences, and fragrances that align with their values. In fact, 71% say fragrance is a healthy way to indulge, and 82% want their homes to smell good as part of their daily routine.
This shift is giving rise to a new generation of air care products that are multi-sensorial, emotionally resonant, and deeply personal.
3 Air care trends to watch for SS26
At Scentmate by dsm-firmenich, we’ve identified three key olfactive directions that are defining the Spring/Summer 2026 season in air care. These trends reflect how consumers are reimagining their homes—not just as places to live, but as spaces to feel, recharge, and express themselves.
1. Savory indulgence: not-so-sweet home rituals
Inspired by the rise of gourmand perfumes and the popularity of edible-scented candles, this trend brings a culinary twist to home fragrance. Think: pistachio, croissant, matcha, and creamy vanilla—notes that feel cozy, nostalgic, and deliciously comforting.
These scents are designed to evoke indulgence without excess, offering a warm, enveloping atmosphere that turns everyday moments into sensory treats.
2. Golden peach: energy, radiance & refreshment
Peach is having a moment—and it’s not just in fine fragrance. In air care, Golden Peach represents a new wave of vitality-focused scents that uplift and energize. Blended with citrus, florals, and soft musks, these compositions are perfect for creating a bright, optimistic ambiance.
With 72% of consumers believing fragrance can increase their energy levels, this trend taps into the growing demand for functional, mood-boosting home scents.
3. Green blossoms: nature-inspired calm
As consumers seek balance and reconnection, Green Blossoms brings the outdoors in. These fragrances combine green, floral, and earthy notes to create a sense of serenity and grounding. Inspired by forest bathing, botanical rituals, and wellness retreats, this trend is all about restoring harmony at home.
Whether it’s a candle that smells like a dewy garden or a diffuser that evokes a peaceful forest, these scents offer a moment of calm in a chaotic world.
Why these air care trends matter
The air care category is no longer just about function—it’s about feeling. These trends reflect a deeper shift in consumer behavior: a desire for fragrance experiences that enhance well-being, express identity, and elevate everyday life.
From indulgent rituals to energizing bursts and grounding escapes, air care is becoming a powerful tool for emotional connection and sensory storytelling.
And this is just the beginning.
Want the full story?
We’ve only shared a glimpse. Each of these trends is backed by in-depth consumer insights, olfactive benchmarks, and exclusive scent creations developed by our perfumers.
Register now at Scentmate.com to unlock the full Air Care Trend Report for SS26 and discover how to turn these insights into your next standout product.