Air Freshners-Friend or Foe
Posted On 2008-01-12 , 1:48 PM
AIR FRESHNERS – FRIEND OR FOE
There is a controversy brewing about the use of air fresheners in the home,
office and other public buildings.
Environmental groups are concerned that there are significant health risks
associated with the use of air fresheners including asthma, breathing difficulties,
developmental problems in babies and cancer in laboratory animals.
The manufacturers claim that the products do not appear to cause any significant
health risks when used properly. Fragrances have been used safely for
centuries with no ill effects.
The manufacturers are partly right. Fragrance has been used to contribute
to the quality of life for a long time.
However the missing piece to the controversy is -
WHAT ARE THE INGREDIENTS IN AIR FRESHNERS THAT MAY CAUSE PROBLEMS?
The fast majority of air fresheners may contain a number of harmful chemicals,
including benzene, formaldehyde, and phthalates.Phthalates soften polyvinyl
chloride products such as toys, raincoats, shower curtains and medical tubing,
and are found in upholstery, detergents and cosmetics as well as air fresheners.
WHAT CAN THE CONSUMER DO TO LIMIT EXPOSURE TO THESE HARMFUL CHEMICALS?
Here are some easy solutions.
- Clean with vinegar and water solution.
- Keep draperies and carpets clean.
- Mist a solution made from water and items like lavender or lemons. In addition you may want to try using a pure therapeutic grade of essential oil.
- Use a cup of baking soda in problem areas such as the fridge or the trash cabinet.
- Make your own potpourri with dried flowers and fruits. The addition of pure therapeutic grade oils is a great option.
- Grind up half a lemon in the garbage disposal. Alternatively one drop of lemon essential oil in the drain works well.
- Open a window to air out a room.
- Bake something. Nothing makes a home smell nicer than fresh cookies or bread.
- Diffuse essential oil of your choice once or twice a day.
Simple steps done consistently over time will do much to improve your environment.
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