Dried Lavender: Uses, Benefits, and How to Dry Lavender at Home

Dried lavender is a versatile and fragrant herb used in home décor, relaxation, skincare, and even cooking. Its calming scent, long-lasting properties, and natural healing benefits make it a must-have ingredient for DIY projects and wellness.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

✔️ How to dry lavender at home
✔️ The best ways to use dried lavender
✔️ Health and wellness benefits of dried lavender
✔️ Where to buy high-quality dried lavender

Let’s explore everything you need to know about dried lavender! 🌿💜

1. What is Dried Lavender?

Dried lavender is simply fresh lavender flowers that have been air-dried or dehydrated to preserve their fragrance, color, and essential oils. It retains the beautiful purple color and soothing aroma, making it perfect for long-term use.

Benefits of Dried Lavender:

🌿 Retains Fragrance for Months – Ideal for sachets, candles, and potpourri.
🌸 Natural Sleep Aid – Helps promote relaxation and reduce stress.
🍃 Insect Repellent – Keeps moths, mosquitoes, and bugs away.
🍪 Edible & Culinary Uses – Can be used in tea, baking, and syrups.

Tip: When properly stored, dried lavender can last up to 1 year!

2. How to Dry Lavender at Home

Drying lavender is easy and helps preserve its aroma and medicinal properties.

Best Methods for Drying Lavender:

1. Air Drying (Best for Preserving Fragrance & Color)

✔️ Cut lavender stems when flowers are in full bloom.
✔️ Remove excess leaves from the lower stems.
✔️ Tie small bundles with string or rubber bands.
✔️ Hang upside down in a dark, dry, well-ventilated area for 2–3 weeks.

2. Oven Drying (Fastest Method)

✔️ Spread lavender flowers on a baking sheet.
✔️ Set oven to low heat (80°C / 175°F).
✔️ Bake for 30–60 minutes, checking every 10 minutes.

3. Dehydrator Method

✔️ Place lavender on dehydrator trays.
✔️ Set to 35–40°C (95–105°F) for 12–24 hours.

Tip: Air drying is best for maintaining scent and color, while oven drying is faster but may reduce fragrance.

3. Best Uses for Dried Lavender

Dried lavender has many uses, from home fragrance to skincare and cooking.

1. Home & Aromatherapy Uses

🌸 Lavender Sachets – Place in drawers, closets, or under pillows for freshness.
🕯️ DIY Candles & Potpourri – Adds a natural floral aroma to your home.
🌿 Lavender Pillow Mist – Mix with water for a soothing sleep spray.
🍃 Insect Repellent – Dried lavender keeps moths and mosquitoes away.

Tip: Keep a dried lavender sachet under your pillow to promote deep sleep.

2. Skincare & Wellness Uses

✔️ Lavender Bath Soak – Add dried lavender to warm bathwater for relaxation.
✔️ DIY Face Mask – Mix with honey for a soothing facial treatment.
✔️ Herbal Hair Rinse – Strengthens hair and soothes scalp irritation.
✔️ Lavender Sugar Scrub – Exfoliates and softens the skin.

Tip: Add dried lavender to Epsom salt for a luxurious bath soak.

3. Culinary Uses of Dried Lavender

🍪 Lavender Shortbread & Cookies – Adds a unique floral twist.
🍯 Lavender-Infused Honey – Delicious in tea, toast, and desserts.
🥤 Lavender Lemonade & Syrups – Perfect for cocktails and summer drinks.
🫖 Lavender Herbal Tea – Soothing and great for digestion and sleep.

Tip: Use culinary-grade dried lavender for cooking—not all dried lavender is edible!

4. Where to Buy High-Quality Dried Lavender

If you don’t want to dry lavender at home, you can buy pre-dried lavender online and in stores.

Best Places to Buy Dried Lavender in the UK

🌿 Amazon UK – Sells culinary and decorative dried lavender.
🌸 Neal’s Yard Remedies – Offers organic dried lavender for wellness.
🛍️ Holland & Barrett – Stocks lavender for herbal teas and skincare.
🌿 Baldwins – A trusted herbal supplier for dried lavender flowers.

Tip: Look for organic, pesticide-free lavender if using it for tea or cooking.

5. How to Store Dried Lavender

Proper storage helps preserve fragrance and quality for months.

✔️ Use an airtight container – Prevents loss of essential oils.
✔️ Store in a dark, dry place – Avoids moisture and sunlight exposure.
✔️ Keep away from humidity – Moisture reduces scent and can cause mold.

Tip: Dried lavender can last 6–12 months when stored correctly.

6. Dried Lavender vs. Fresh Lavender: Which is Better?

Tip: Dried lavender is best for long-term use, while fresh lavender is ideal for immediate aromatherapy or decoration.

FAQs: Dried Lavender Uses & Storage

How long does dried lavender last?
✔️ Dried lavender stays fragrant for 6–12 months when stored in a sealed container.

Can you use dried lavender for tea?
✔️ Yes! But make sure it’s culinary-grade and pesticide-free.

How do I refresh dried lavender’s scent?
✔️ Gently crush the buds to release more natural oils and fragrance.

Is dried lavender good for sleep?
✔️ Yes! Place it under your pillow or make a lavender sleep spray.

Can dried lavender be used in bath products?
✔️ Absolutely! Add to bath salts, face masks, or soap recipes.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Use Dried Lavender

✔️ Easy to dry and store for year-round use
✔️ Ideal for home fragrance, skincare, and cooking
✔️ Natural sleep aid and relaxation remedy
✔️ Can be used in candles, sachets, and DIY beauty products
✔️ Repels insects and adds a fresh scent to wardrobes

Dried lavender is a fantastic, multi-purpose herb that enhances your home, wellness, and beauty routine. Whether you dry your own lavender or buy it pre-packaged, it’s a wonderful addition to any natural lifestyle! 🌿💜

How do you use dried lavender? Share your favorite uses in the comments!

Now you’re ready to use and store dried lavender like a pro! 🌿💜 Let me know if you have any questions! 🚀