CONCERNS WITH AIR-FRESHENER USE
Most people love the smell of fresh baked cinnamon rolls, fresh flowers or pine forests. However, these artificial scents are made from chemical ingredients that can cause health risks, especially in sensitive individuals, young children and pregnant women. Manufacturers do not have to list all ingredients, making it hard for consumers. Fresheners can be sprays, candles, dryer sheets, plug-ins, wax melts, automatic spray systems, incense, “tree” scents for cars and others. Most do not “clean” the area—they just mask the odors from spills and daily living.
Health risks increase when these fresheners are in constant use (like plugs-ins). These risks include skin, eye, nose and throat irritations, breathing problems, allergies and asthma attacks, headaches, hormone imbalances, endocrine disruption, and neurologic issues.
There are about 3,000 different chemicals that can be used in manufacturing these fresheners. They contain VOC’s (volatile organic compounds) like formaldehyde and benzene. Toluene, ethyl benzene, Xylene, and acetaldehyde. Some contain differing amounts of phthalates (mostly found in the fragrances) which can cause hormone problems and endocrine disruption issues. These chemicals can also interact with other air pollutants which may increase their health risks. There also have been cases where sparks can cause fires when encountering sprays.
There are many practices one can use to avoid these fresheners, Ventilation is great—open those windows frequently. Use exhaust systems to move cooking smells. Air purifiers help, as does keeping the HOVAC up to date on maintenance. Treat spills as soon as they happen and vacuum often. Some people like to put activated charcoal around to catch odors. Houseplants also help with healthy air indoors.
If you are still hoping for a nice scent and do not want to do baking—here are a few hints. Add five drops of essential oil to baking soda—stir and sprinkle mix on carpet. Let it rest for 10 minutes and vacuum thoroughly. Use a diffuser with a few drops of essential oil for a gentle scent. Remember that these oils are also chemicals (natural ones) and can cause irritation in sensitive people and pets---so use them with caution as well.
Making your own “dryer sheet’ is easy. Use an old washcloth that has been soaked in water that has had a few drops of essential oil added. Wring dry and add to the last 10 minutes of your dryer load. Renew as scent fades in the same manner. You can also add ½ cup to your wash load (add to water first to dissolve). Vinegar can also be added to your rinse load of clothes (1/4 cup).
Why spend money and expose your family to health risks just to mask odors when there are easy fixes.
Earth Steward Action: Try one of the DIY air freshener ideas this week.
Sources: https://ehs.umass.edu/air-fresheners-and-indoor-air-quality , https://naturesnurtureblog.com/non-toxic-air-fresheners