Most conventional air fresheners contain basic chemicals such as formaldehyde, petroleum distillates, 1,4 dichlorobenzene and aerosol propellants.
These chemicals are linked to skin and upper respiratory allergies and may lead to serious diseases
Formaldehyde is classified as a human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.
Phthalates are hazardous chemicals known to cause cancer, hormonal abnormalities, birth defects, and reproductive problems. A study performed by the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) found that 12 of 14 common household air fresheners contained phthalates and that none of them listed phthalates as an ingredient.
The study indicates that may air fresheners currently being used are a threat to public health. US National Institute of Health (NIH) found that exposure to a VOC called 1,4 dichlorobenzene found in many air fresheners may be harmful to the lungs.
Another chemical present in air fresheners is terpene, which when exposed to the air creates formaldehyde.
Regulations:
Air freshener manufacturers are not required to list ingredients in their products. The 2007 NRDC study on air fresheners resulted in a petition to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to more tightly regulate air fresheners.
DIY home fresheners are healthier alternatives. You control the ingredients and save money at the same time.
Let’s look at the ingredients in this lavender baking soda air freshener:
– The baking soda is a natural deodorizer and it neutralizes odors.
– The lavender will add a pleasant scent, yet disinfect.
It is said that in ancient Rome, people added lavender to the water at public baths to help keep the water germ-free. The essential oil has disinfectant properties.
Mix:
2 Tbsp baking soda
2 cups of water
10 drops lavender essential oil
Transfer to a spray bottle
Spray when air is stale and when someone in your home is sick.
Tips: Opening your windows at least 1o minutes a day is highly recommended. It creates airflow as stale air is bad for you.
Introducing air purifying and filtering plants can help detoxify the air as well.
Note: None of the information in our website is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. The content on our website is for educational purposes only.
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REFERENCES:
1. Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). ” Protect your family from the hidden hazards in air fresheners.” Web. 01 September 2013.
2. US National Institute of Health (NIH). ” Chemical in many air fresheners may reduce lung function.” Web. 01 September 2013.
3. The 2007 NRDC study “Common air fresheners contain chemicals that may directly affect human reproductive development.” Web. 01 September 2013.
