use this blend in aroma lamps and burners when enjoying a quiet summer night on the patio.
Green Air Fresheners
Let’s be honest: do you really enjoy the smell of violets, or maybe you need that little synthetic
plug-in to cover up the smell of not-so-clean curtains, the dog’s lack of toilet manners, another burned
dinner, or even worse, stale tobacco smoke? There are many reasons you reach for that aerosol spray
or scented candle. But the surprising fact is that most air fresheners may be making you ill. They work
by emitting heavily scented chemicals that mask unwanted odors, using synthetic perfumes such as
musk and other aromatic hydrocarbons to provide fragrance.
The toxic chemicals released by air fresheners—particularly those with pine, orange, and lemon
scents—are known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These are well-proven toxins, many of
which have been linked to a range of diseases and conditions when inhaled even in low
concentrations over a long period of time. Some of these chemicals include benzene, a petroleum-
derived chemical that causes cancer in animals and has been linked to leukemia; xylene, which has
been linked to nausea and “sick building syndrome,” as well as liver and kidney damage; phenol,
which can cause kidney, respiratory, neurological, and skin problems; naphthalene, a suspected
carcinogen that has been linked to blood, kidney, and liver problems; and formaldehyde, a colorless,
unstable gas. Inhaling formaldehyde fumes in even small amounts can cause coughing, a sore throat,
and respiratory and eye problems. Formaldehyde has been linked to cancer, particularly in the nasal
cavity.
Green Tip
Try filling your home with plants. Plants can effectively detoxify the air by absorbing toxic vapors and releasing
oxygen back into the atmosphere, which also improves air quality. The spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) and
rubber tree (Ficus elastic) are especially good. Research by NASA found that a single spider plant could reduce
dangerous levels of toxins in a room by 96 percent in 24 hours.
So what should we do to keep our homes smelling like vanilla cookies if we aren’t in the mood to
bake? Try green air fresheners. Look for nonaerosol canisters and words such as “biodegradable,”
“plant-based,” “formulated without synthetic fragrance,” and “contains no formaldehyde/phthalates.”
Green, nontoxic air freshener sprays are made by Seventh Generation, Miessence, and Rainforest
Organic, while California Scents now makes organic gel fresheners that are practical and spill-proof.
Of course, you can use an all-natural body deodorant (Weleda, for example) in citrus or wild rose
scent and generously spray it around the house whenever you need to. Most natural nonaerosol air
fresheners are quite concentrated, and a little squirt will last a long time.
You may also try some of Grandma’s recipes. Put some whole cloves in a pan of water and simmer
it on the stove. Another way to fill your home with a natural fragrance is to simmer four lemons cut
into quarters or bake them in the oven for about forty-five minutes. The citric acid can also destroy
airborne toxic particles. For bathroom odors, a simple lit match often does the trick.
Soy candles are fun and easy to make from loose soy wax chips and premade wicks using essential
oils such as lavender, vanilla, and lemon. (These are also safe to use if you’re pregnant.) If you are
not in the DIY mood, try a lush candle by the Organic Pharmacy, Diptyque, or an ultra-luxurious
candle with essential oils by Costes. For the baby’s room, try a candle by California Baby with
scents of lavender, lemon, or orange— these scents quickly eliminate a soiled diaper odor.