A gel composition for air freshening or disinfecting, comprising a silicon alkoxide or colloidal silica, a volatile or gaseous fragrance and/or disinfectant, water, an acid or base catalyst, a water-soluble solvent, and optionally other volatile components and additives, and a method for preparing the same. The gel can be transparent or colored, has a homogeneous texture and a soft to rigid structure, and contains volatile or gaseous components from 0 vol % to 85 vol % for scented materials (fragrance and oils) and/or 0-8000 ppm of disinfectant, which are released at a steady rate under ambient conditions, controlled by the shape and opening of the gel container. Botanicals or plastic decorations may be added into the gel to improve its aesthetic appeal. The preparation method is easier and requires less energy consumption and the gel is used as an air freshener or disinfectant.