Chemical air fresheners… What do you mean they are “Not Just a Nice Smell”?
To those of you who enjoy your smelly “Chemical-Cocktail Air Fresheners”, you may not want to read any further.
If you do, I warn you, those air fresheners may never smell the same to you again.
While reading the latest, February 2012 Vista magazine I came across an article written by Michael Bloch – “Chemical Air Fresheners and Your Home.” (Michael’s website is greenlivingtips.com )
Getting right to the point – Bloch says that the air freshener industry uses up to 3000 synthetic chemical ingredients. Some of them include the following nasty toxins:
- Formaldehyde, a known carcinogen
- Phenol, a skin and nervous system irritant
- Petroleum distillates such as butane and propane
- Methlformamide, linked to organ system toxicity, cancer and developmental or reproductive toxicity.
- Butanoic acid, linked to neurotoxicity, endocrine disruption and organ system toxicity.
- Nitro – and polycyclic musks, linked to cancer and hormone disruption… and the list goes on.
What about those convenient air fresheners that spray automatically every few minutes?
Michael Bloch says these harmful products should be pulled from the market for many reasons.
Apparently, one can build up a tolerance to the smell so that one needs a stronger and stronger scent to get the desired result. That is not good.
So… what can you do?
You can start by reading the labels. Just because it says “natural scent” doesn’t mean other harmful ingredients aren’t included.
Check the ingredients list.
The Environmental Working Group has an online data base, Skin Deep, where you can find out the potential effects of most chemicals.
So, you ask, how do I freshen my home without my favorite chemical air freshener?
One alternative is to use essential oils diluted in water – use in a spray bottle. Mist the air for a fresh, safe and truly natural aroma.
- Smell the citrus
Lemon and orange are some of my favorite aromas.
Lavender is another.
You can also use vanilla extract as a natural deodorizer. Place a few drops in small containers here and there in your home.
Natural, safe and non-toxic – why settle for less? Your health is worth it.
Nuggets of Gold 