Air Fresheners: A Breath of Fresh Air?

April 10th, 2009

We all want a fresh-smelling home; it means it’s clean and under control. Some people resort to air fresheners in aerosols, plug-in pods, and a host of other creative products. Personally, I am horrified by these products and avoid them at all costs.

I have neighbors at my condo who are undoubtedly hooked on the stuff; I have to hold my breath as I walk by their door. These artificial masking scents are quite detrimental to a household; if a little consumer research was done before a purchase I am positive no one would buy them.

For people with asthma or other respiratory problems, these products exacerbate the ailments and act as a catalyst for causing such problems in children. You are welcome to research the upwards of 3,000 chemicals found in air fresheners and read the frightening details. What I will tell you is that the chemicals contained include petrochemicals such as propane and butane, which spread themselves around your room and cling to everything including your carpets, upholstery, and airways.

These nasty chemical cocktails are combustible, can cause headaches, depress the nervous system, and cause shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. No thanks! Rather than buying these products, here are some great ways to keep the house smelling fresh:

• Open a window to circulate fresh air. It sounds simple and obvious but it works like a charm.

• About 20 minutes before you vacuum carpets, sprinkle baking soda onto the carpets to eliminate the odors out of the carpet fibers. You can even add some dried lavender or sage to the baking soda beforehand, which will leave a fresh and natural aromatic scent.

• If you are craving a warm scent, simmer some mulling spices in water for awhile and enjoy the scents of your own creation.

• For the bathroom, use the simple and steadfast trick of lighting a match. It works every time and is completely safe. Of course, be sure to safely light and flush the match.

Melissa