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).
Hazardous Ingredients to Watch Out For:
ehyl 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.
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