by
Stepy —
January 15, 2018
- Control the air your breathe in your home and disinfect the air in your home.
- As we saw, most conventional air fresheners contain chemicals such as formaldehyde, petroleum distillates, 1,4 dichlorobenzene and aerosol propellants.
- These chemicals are linked to skin and upper respiratory allergies, asthma 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.
- Clove is a powerful immune system booster and antioxidant. Its oil has antibacterial properties. Historically it has been used its antiseptic and analgesic properties. Its traditional uses include remedies for treating colds, flu, digestive disorders, nausea, parasites, sinusitis and toothache.
- Baking soda is a known odor absorber and it will neutralize odors.
- Clove and baking soda air freshener:
- Mix:
- 4 Tbsp white vinegar
- 3 or 4 cups of water
10 drops of clove essential oil
- Pour in a spray bottle
- Shake before use
- Spray when air is stale and someone is sick with cold or flu.
- Note: 3 years old and older: Cinnamon and clove oil are okay for use as long as cinnamon oils are only used in natural diffusers and room sprays.
- Tips: Opening your windows at least 10 minutes a day is highly recommended. It creates airflow as stale air is bad for you.
- For a vinegar detox air freshener.
- 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.
