Air Fresheners/Deodorizers
In 2005, the Bureau European des Unions de Consommateurs published a comparative study about home fragrances and measured the concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and aldehydes, potent neurotoxins that attack the central and peripheral nervous systems, in the air after their use.
In many cases levels of potent neurotoxins in the air were much higher than the ‘safe’ VOC dose of 200 µg/m3. In some cases they were as high as 4000– 5000 µg/m3. (µg/m3 = micrograms per cubic meter, a measure of concentration of chemicals in a volume of air).
Health Hazards
Air fresheners are highly flammable.
Air fresheners are highly irritating to eyes, skin, and throat.
Solid air fresheners usually cause death if ingested by pets or people.
Most of the ingredients used in air fresheners are highly toxic.
Ethyl/isopropyl alcohol can be extremely dangerous if absorbed through the skin, inhaled, or ingested. Symptoms include naesea, vommiting, depression, headache, dizziness, anesthesia and possible coma.
Formaldehyde, if inhaled, can cause difficulty breathing, trigger an asthma attack, cause throat irritation and induce headache. It is also an irritant to mucous membranes.
P- dichlorobenzene can cause headaches, dizziness, and liver damage.
Some propellants, such as butane, can cause drowsiness, narcosis, asphyxia, and cardiac arythmia
Limonene an irritant is toxic to marine life with acute exposure to limonene.
Proper Use and Disposal
Always follow the instructions on the label and never spray aerosol air fresheners towards the body or face.
Keep solid air fresheners out of reach of pets or children, as they can be deadly if ingested.
Use up the air freshener in its entirety before disposing. Recycle the empty vessel. If you have not used all of the air freshener, bring it to your local community collection center. To find an Oregon location near you, visit http://www.deq.state.or.us/lq/sw/hhw/collection.html
Hazardous Ingredients
- Ethyl or isopropyl alcohol
- Glycol ethers
- Formaldehyde
- Acetaldehyde
- Petroleum distillates
- Toluene
- Styrene
- P-Dischlorobenzene
- Aerosol propelants
- Usually butane, isobutane, or propane
- Artificial musk
- Limonene
- Phthalates
Household Alternatives
Simmer Pot or Boiled Spices (1):
Bring a pot of water to a boil, add your favorite spices, fruit or flowers to the pot and let simmer as the natural scents fill the room. Some ingredients may include cinnamon, lemons, roses or pine needles!
Sachet Bags:
Small sachet bags are great to fill with spices such as lavender, rosemary, mint and so many more! From fresh to dried sachet bags are great for cars, homes closets, and drawers.
Lemon Basil Scented Room Spray (4):
Bring ¾ cup of water to a boil. Pour the water into a heat safe measuring cup, add four tablespoons of dried basil and let steep for a few minutes. Filter out the basil from the water with a coffee filter and transfer the mixture to a spray bottle (funnel recommended for this portion). Add ¾ cup of distilled water to the bottle, one tablespoon of vodka (for preservation) and some drops of lemon juice. Shake to combine and spray as needed.
Carpet Deodorizer (1,2):
Sprinkle baking soda on carpet, let sit for an hour or overnight then vacuum. Baking soda works to break down and dissolve organic compounds such as dirt and grime while also providing a gentle abrasion. Mix one cup of baking soda with ½ cup of corn starch then add 5-10 drops of lemon essential oil or your favorite. Sprinkle on carpet, let sit for at least 2 hours then vacuum.
Mattress Deodorizer (3):
Similar to the baking soda alternative, sprinkle baby powder on a mattress or sheets to absorb odor and moisture.
