Dirt is about 2.5 times the density of water.

Silt: Silty soils are finer, and smoother in texture and hold the most available water to plants. Sand does not hold any water and clay particles hold water so tightly to the particle surface that plant roots are unable to extract it from the soil.

Sandy soils

The smell will be different depending on where the soil is found. Healthy, productive soils should smell fresh, clean and pleasant or have little odor at all. If the soil smells like ammonia or has a rotten odor that is a good indication there is poor drainage or lack of oxygen in the soil.

Smelling soil should be a pleasant experience; fresh soil gives off an earthy, but not dirty, scent. If the soil of your houseplants or outdoor plants has a rotten odor, including traces of sulfur or ammonia, then the most likely cause is that too much water gathers in the soil.

Facts about clay smell The smell of the clay release aerosol, which is a result of clay material, comes in contact with the water. During the process of pushing the water particles upward, we get the smell. Also, on the surface of the clay, there will be bacteria accumulated.

Vinegar is also used in clay bodies to increase acidity to improve plasticity. The acid works to neutralize sodium ions (from water, leaching feldspars) that tend to deflocculate the clay. Excessive acid may tend to dissolve more feldspar or nepheline syenite negating the effect.

Does clay go bad? No, but it may grow mold. This is good bacteria and will be good for the clay’s workability. It is not harmful bacteria.

But for now… These are my findings so far: Essential Oils – It scents the raw clay really well but fades quickly after baking. I rubbed some on the baked clay and that seemed to work better but eventually faded as well.

Add a few drops of your favourite essential oil – enjoy as the scent diffuses into the air!

Make it scented: After the clay has dried – add a few drops of your favorite essential oils.

Polymer clay is not considered ideal for aromatherapy diffusion because polymer is not very porous and would not absorb the oils. Unpainted and uncoated wood beads and components are an acceptable material for aerial diffusion of essential oils.

Air dry clay is so easy to work with, and is the perfect material for making these DIY essential oil air freshers. Any pure essential oil you have at home will work fine with this clay oil diffuser. I’ve used lavender oil in mine, but lemongrass, eucalyptus or peppermint would all smell lovely.