Air fresheners have become ubiquitous in our daily lives, promising to eliminate unpleasant odors and create a fresh and inviting atmosphere. Unfortunately, many air fresheners conceal potential health risks beneath their pleasant fragrances and contribute to poor indoor air quality.[1] In addition, these products often contain chemicals that mask odors and pollute the air we breathe, posing potential dangers to our well-being.[2] This article explores the hidden dangers and hazards of air fresheners, their chemicals, and their impact on human health and suggests safer alternatives for maintaining a healthy home environment.
The Chemistry of Air Fresheners:
Contrary to popular belief, “clean” air should ideally have no discernible scent, as true cleanliness refers to the minimal chemical presence.[3] Air fresheners are part of a broader category of everyday products that contain chemicals capable of causing hormonal disruptions and respiratory issues.[1] Understanding the chemistry behind air fresheners helps us comprehend their potential risks.
Chemicals in Air Fresheners:
Air fresheners emit over 100 chemicals, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes.[1] These chemicals can react with other compounds in the air, generating secondary pollutants that worsen indoor air quality.[4] VOCs, oxidants, and light sources, such as fluorescent bulbs, contribute to forming these pollutants.[1] Additionally, fragrance molecules can interact with oxidants released from various sources, including gas stoves, exacerbating indoor air pollution.
Air Fresheners and Human Health:
The health effects of air fresheners vary depending on the specific chemicals present and individual sensitivities.[5] People with asthma or allergies may be particularly susceptible to scented products, as reported by the Environmental Protection Agency.[5] A study by the Environmental Working Group found that over 75% of evaluated air fresheners posed “likely” or “potentially significant” hazards to health or the environment based on concerns about exposure to their ingredients.[6]
High levels of VOC exposure can lead to adverse health effects, including migraines, asthma attacks, respiratory difficulties, and neurological problems.[1] Even short-term exposure can irritate the eyes, throat, and nose, as well as nausea.[1] Claudia Miller, a professor emeritus at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, explains that repeated exposure to air fresheners can trigger immune responses, leading to allergic-like reactions, inflammation, illness, and increased chemical intolerance.[7]
Safety of “Green” Air Fresheners:
Air fresheners labeled organic, nontoxic, green, or all-natural can emit potentially hazardous chemicals.[8] However, more data on the toxicity of various chemicals found in everyday products would make it easier to assess their safety.[9] In addition, in the United States, regulations governing cleaning products and air fresheners are relatively lax, contributing to the prevalence of potentially harmful substances in these products.[10]
Recommendations for Safer Alternatives:
To minimize the risks associated with air fresheners, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggests reducing the use of strongly scented products, especially in poorly ventilated indoor areas.[1] They also recommend limiting sprays that disperse scents throughout a space.[1]
Safer alternatives include using essential oils to add fragrance to indoor spaces, with careful consideration of the ingredients.[8] An associate professor at Carnegie Mellon University, Ryan Sullivan, suggests looking for fully disclosed ingredients and opting for minimally processed, naturally sourced oils.[8] Reed diffusers, which use sticks to absorb and emit essential oil scents, or mist-type diffusers that spray essential oils mixed with water,, are recommended as safer dispersion methods.[8] Another alternative is to create potpourri using dried flowers and herbs, which can provide a natural and pleasant fragrance.[8] Additionally, air-purifying machines and air-purifying plants can help improve indoor air quality by removing pollutants and introducing fresh air.[8]
Conclusion:
While air fresheners may temporarily mask unpleasant odors, they can introduce harmful chemicals into our living spaces and negatively impact indoor air quality. In addition, the chemicals present in these products can pose risks to human health, especially for those with sensitivities or pre-existing conditions. To maintain a healthy home environment, choosing safer alternatives and minimizing the use of strongly scented products is advisable. Essential oils, reed diffusers, potpourri, air-purifying machines, and air-purifying plants are viable options. By making informed choices and prioritizing our well-being, we can create a healthier living space for ourselves and our loved ones.
References:
- Ajasa, A. (2023). If You Can Smell Your Air Freshener, You Might Have a Problem—the Washington Post.
- Sullivan, R. (2023). As cited in Ajasa, A. If You Can Smell Your Air Freshener, You Might Have a Problem—the Washington Post.
- Steinemann, A. (2015). Volatile Emissions from Common Consumer Products. Building and Environment, 93, 267-277.
- Environmental Working Group. Guide to Healthy Cleaning. Retrieved fromhttps://www.ewg.org/guides/cleaners/
- Environmental Protection Agency. Indoor Air Quality. Retrieved fromhttps://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq
- Natural Resources Defense Council. (2007). Hidden Hazards of Air Fresheners. Retrieved fromhttps://www.nrdc.org/sites/default/files/airfresheners.pdf
- Miller, C. As cited in Ajasa, A. (2023). If You Can Smell Your Air Freshener, You Might Have a Problem—the Washington Post.
- Natural Resources Defense Council. (2007). Hidden Hazards of Air Fresheners. Retrieved fromhttps://www.nrdc.org/sites/default/files/airfresheners.pdf
- Environmental Protection Agency. Indoor Air Quality. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq
- Sullivan, R. As cited in Ajasa, A. (2023). If You Can Smell Your Air Freshener, You Might Have a Problem. The Washington Post.