Room Fragrances: Are They Safe To Use?

Air fresheners are a common household product, but are they safe? While they may improve odours, air fresheners can also be harmful to human and animal health, as well as the environment. Air fresheners contain a variety of chemical compounds, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, and phthalates, which have been linked to a range of adverse health effects, including respiratory issues, allergies, and in some cases, cancer. The effects of air fresheners can vary depending on the formulation, the ingredients, and the level of exposure, with children and pets being particularly vulnerable. With the potential risks involved, it is important for consumers to be aware of the possible dangers and take precautions to ensure the safe use of these products or opt for natural alternatives.

Are air fresheners toxic to pets and humans?

Air fresheners are a common household product, but they can pose a risk to human and animal health. They can also negatively impact indoor air quality.

Air fresheners contain a variety of chemical compounds designed to mask unpleasant odours. These chemicals include volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes. These chemicals are associated with various adverse health effects, including respiratory issues, migraines, asthma attacks, and in some cases, an increased risk of certain cancers. The Environmental Working Group found that over 75% of air fresheners contain ingredients that are likely or potentially hazardous to health.

The effects of air fresheners can vary depending on the formulation and the length of exposure. Inhaling small amounts is usually not dangerous, but swallowing certain types of air fresheners, such as gel-type evaporative beads or reed diffuser solutions, can cause serious health issues. The liquid in these products typically contains high concentrations of VOCs, which can cause severe symptoms if ingested.

Air fresheners can also be highly toxic to pets. The compounds that help the scent move through the air, known as VOCs, can cause anything from eye and airway irritation to organ damage or even cancer in animals. Essential oils, often found in natural fresheners, are highly toxic to pets as they lack the necessary enzymes to process them.

To minimize the risks associated with air fresheners, it is recommended to use fragrance-free or natural essential oil products. Keeping your home well-ventilated and clean is also a healthier alternative to using air fresheners.

What are the health risks of air fresheners?

Air fresheners are a common household product, but they can pose several health risks that you should be aware of. The use of air fresheners is associated with elevated levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, benzene, toluene, ethyl benzene, and xylenes, which can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, as well as cause headaches, nausea, and neurological problems. These chemicals are often difficult to smell and can be absorbed by furniture, walls, and other surfaces, continuing to contaminate indoor air even after the air freshener is no longer in use.

The effects of air fresheners can vary depending on the chemicals in the product and the individual. People with asthma, allergies, or respiratory issues are more susceptible to adverse reactions. In addition, children and pets are particularly vulnerable to the toxic effects of air fresheners, especially if ingested. Symptoms of ingestion include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, coughing, and difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, can lead to aspiration pneumonia.

Long-term exposure to air fresheners has been linked to an increased risk of respiratory problems, allergies, and even certain cancers. The exact long-term health effects are not yet fully understood, but studies have found connections between the use of air fresheners and negative health impacts.

It's important to note that even "green," "organic," or "all-natural" air fresheners may not be safer. These terms are not regulated when used with air fresheners, and studies have found that all types of air fresheners emit potentially hazardous compounds.

To minimize health risks, it is recommended to avoid using air fresheners, improve ventilation, and opt for natural fragrance options like essential oils or fresh air.

What are the alternatives to air fresheners?

While air fresheners can improve unpleasant odors, they may also be harmful to your health and the environment. Air fresheners emit over 100 chemicals, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene, which can cause cancer, hormonal disruptions, and respiratory issues. In addition, they can trigger allergic-like reactions, leading to inflammation and illness.

Simmer Pot

A simple and natural way to make your home smell great is to make a simmer pot. This involves using citrus fruits like lemons and oranges, along with herbs such as rosemary and mint. You can also add seasonal ingredients like apples and cinnamon sticks. As the mixture simmers, the aromatic oils will spread throughout your home.

Fragrant Houseplants

Flowers and houseplants like lavender, orchids, and jasmine not only add beauty and color to your home but also fill it with a natural fragrance. With proper care, you can grow these plants indoors all year round.

Essential Oil Spray

You can make your own natural air freshener spray by mixing a cup of water, a pinch of baking soda, and 3-5 drops of your favorite essential oil in a spray bottle. This is a safe and effective way to keep fabrics and carpets smelling fresh, without the harmful toxins found in store-bought sprays. Popular choices for a clean scent include citrus oils like lemon and grapefruit.

Stovetop Potpourri

Stovetop potpourri is another way to make your home smell wonderful without the use of chemicals. Simply heat aromatic ingredients in a pan of water on your stovetop. You can choose ingredients like lemon and rosemary for a fresh summer scent, or cinnamon and cranberries for a festive fragrance.

Reed Diffuser

Reed diffusers are a flameless alternative to scented candles. Rattan reeds or bamboo skewers are placed in a container with fragrant oil, which they soak up and disperse into the air. You can make your own reed diffuser at home by using a glass or ceramic container, essential oils, and a carrier oil like almond or safflower oil.

Baking Soda Air Freshener

Baking soda helps to neutralize odors, so it's a great natural air freshener. Simply combine baking soda with 15-20 drops of your favorite essential oil, mix well, and transfer the mixture to a glass container with a lid. Place it in any room to enjoy a natural and customizable scent.

What are the safest air fresheners to use?

While air fresheners are commonly used to mask unpleasant odours, they can also increase indoor air pollution and pose health risks, especially with long-term exposure. Air fresheners release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, which can cause adverse health effects such as migraine headaches, asthma attacks, breathing difficulties, and neurological problems.

To minimise these risks, it is recommended to use products with natural and non-toxic ingredients. Here are some suggestions for safer alternatives:

• Essential oils: Essential oils are naturally occurring oils derived from plants. They can be used with a reed diffuser or mister-type diffuser that sprays the oil in water.
• Natural odour absorbers: These products use natural ingredients such as activated bamboo charcoal, baking soda, or essential oils to absorb and eliminate odours without releasing additional chemicals into the air.
• Natural room sprays: There are natural and non-toxic room sprays available that use plant-based or essential oils to freshen the air. Some brands to look for include Good Natured, Fresh Wave, and Green Koala.
• Plants: Houseplants such as snake plants and philodendrons can help to freshen the air and are a cheaper alternative to artificial air fresheners.
• Natural ingredients: Simmering natural ingredients such as oranges, cloves, cinnamon, or vanilla on the stove can act as a non-toxic air freshener and humidifier.
• Open windows: One of the simplest ways to improve air quality and remove odours is to open windows and allow fresh air to circulate.

When choosing an air freshener, it is important to read the ingredient list and opt for products that are transparent about their formulations. Look for air fresheners that are free from VOCs, aerosol propellants, phthalates, formaldehyde, and other potentially harmful chemicals. Additionally, consider the packaging and choose products with sustainable, recyclable, or refillable packaging to reduce waste.

How do air fresheners affect indoor air quality?

Air fresheners can negatively impact indoor air quality by adding potentially hazardous pollutants to the air. They are a source of indoor air pollution and can either directly emit or cause the formation of numerous substances associated with negative health effects.

Air fresheners contain a variety of chemical, and sometimes biological, components that can be problematic for some individuals. They release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, which are types of chemicals that turn into vapour or gas easily at room temperature. VOCs can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, as well as cause headaches, nausea, and neurological problems. The types and amounts of VOCs emitted depend on the fragrance composition of the air freshener, not the type.

Air fresheners can also add other pollutants to the air through direct emissions and through secondary reaction products. For example, air freshener emissions can react with naturally occurring indoor air compounds, such as ozone, to produce secondary pollutants such as formaldehyde.

The chemicals in air fresheners can also stick to and be absorbed by furniture, walls, carpets, and other surfaces, and then re-enter the indoor air even after the air freshener is no longer in use.

In addition, air fresheners can pose dangers to children and pets if accidentally ingested. Symptoms of ingestion include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, coughing, and difficulty breathing.

Frequently asked questions