Irish Spring Soap Hacks: Make a Fresh-Smelling DIY Drawer Liner

When it comes to Irish Spring Soap Hacks, this easy drawer liner project deserves a spot at the top of the list.
In just a few simple steps, you can make fresh-smelling, pest-repelling liners for every drawer in your home — using nothing more than a bar of soap, some lightweight fabric, and a warm iron.
It’s budget-friendly, quick to make, and lasts for weeks!
Tools and Materials:
- Irish Spring Soap
- Fine Handheld Grater
- Cotton Fabric Scraps
- Pre-Cut Parchment Paper Sheets
- Baking Soda
- Cornstarch
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1. Measure your drawer space
Measure the length and width of your drawer and cut two matching pieces of fabric to size. Using two layers helps contain the soap and powder mix.
Caption: Measure the inside of your drawer and cut two pieces of fabric for a layered liner.
2. Grate your soap
Grate about 1–2 tablespoons of Irish Spring using the fine side of your grater. Set it aside in a small bowl.
3. Mix your scent blend
In a bowl, combine:
- 1–2 tbsp grated soap
- 1 tbsp baking soda
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
Stir well so it’s evenly mixed — no clumps! This helps absorb moisture and keeps things smelling fresh without mess.
4. Assemble your liner “sandwich”
Lay one piece of fabric face-down on parchment paper. I decided to use a pillowcase to make things simpler.
Sprinkle your scent blend evenly over it — keep it light. Then place the second piece of fabric on top, creating a layered liner with the mix inside.
Caption: A little goes a long way! Evenly sprinkle the scent blend and layer with a second piece of fabric.
5. Press and Seal
Cover your fabric sandwich with another sheet of parchment paper and press gently with a warm iron (not hot!). The heat melts the soap slightly and helps bind the mix to the fabric.
Optional: If you’re handy with a sewing machine (or glue), seal the edges for a sachet-style liner.
6. Place in your drawer
Once cool, place your liner in the bottom of your drawer. Scented side down helps keep the fragrance contained but noticeable. Replace every 2–3 months or refresh with a new blend.
Caption: These fresh-scented liners make every drawer feel clean and cozy.
Where to Use These Soap-Infused Liners
- Bedroom dresser drawers
- Bathroom vanity drawers
- Kitchen towel drawer
- Linen closet shelves
- Entryway “junk” drawers
- RVs, campers, vacation homes
7 Mind-Blowing Irish Spring Soap Tips for a Pest-Free Home
Why This Actually Works
Irish Spring (and similar bar soaps) contain scent compounds like limonene and linalool, which are naturally strong, fresh-smelling, and even pest-repelling.
Paired with baking soda (a deodorizer) and cornstarch (which helps trap the scent), the result is a long-lasting liner that keeps your drawers fresh — without the powdery mess.
Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
Is the parchment paper on the top and bottom of the outside of the fabric to protect the iron and ironing board while ironing and then discarded
WOW I've been reading here for a very long time but have never made a comment that I can recall until now. This is an excellent idea especially for drawers and storage areas not used frequently such as linen closets etc. I love the RV/Camper idea and will certainly try this in mine. I love the idea of it being contained neatly and conveniently inside an old pillow cases which gives me a great use for all the ones I've collected thru the years. (Now I feel as if I know why I've kept all these perfectly good pillow cases that I haven't found a great use for until now!)
I did not fully understand this comment: "Scented side down helps keep the fragrance contained but noticeable." If it is a fabric sandwich then the mix should stick to both sides so both sides should be equally scented correct? Or are you saying you can do the fabric sandwich but only use the side that the mixture sticks too and place that down on the drawer or shelf?
Thanks again for an excellent idea and if you can clarify my question that would be great.