Are Air Fresheners Poisoning Your Home?

I’m sure we’ve all experienced coming home to a place that smells "less than desirable". We've been trained to react by using fresheners that come in cans, candles, and plug-in dispensers.

However, when we “plug it in” what are you actually introducing to your home?

A study by The Natural Resources Defense Council found that 86% (I've added the study as a PDF with this blog post) of the air fresheners tested were found to contain phthalates. Phthalates are used in many products such as plastics, health products and yes, even air fresheners. There is evidence to show that phthalates interfere with reproductive organs, cause deformity in babies and child development and contribute to decreased testosterone levels in males. Phthalates are also linked to allergic reactions and respiratory issues and asthma. And that's the tip of the chemical-laden iceburg known as air fresheners.

So what can you do? Before you reach for that spray can one more time, try these simple steps to make your home smell fresh and clean.

• Attack the source of odors, especially in the kitchen, bathroom and laundry area. If something is causing an unpleasant smell, clean it or remove it. Use baking soda in problem areas. Baking soda absorbs odors so your nose doesn’t have to. You can mix a few drops of essential oil in some water and spray it around your home.
• Potpourri is also a fun option and you can get very creative with it. If you have children making potpourri can be a fun activity you can do as a family.
• If you’re a plant lover you’re in luck. Indoor plants can be utilized as natural air fresheners. You can also grow herbs which will provide plenty of fresh natural scents. Keeping windows open and air flowing also is a key. 

Try to remember that what you breathe is as important as what you eat, how much you sleep, and how much you exercise. Keeping your air clean is just one of several keys to feeling better inside and out.

John Hufford owns Green Horizons, an eco-firendly cleaning service and consultant agency.