Highest levels of phthalates:
- Walgreens Air Freshener Spray (removed from shelves)
- Walgreens Scented Bouquet Air Fresheners (removed from shelves)
- Walgreens Solid Air Fresheners (removed from shelves)
- Ozium Glycolized Air Sanitizer
Medium levels of phthalates:
- Air Wick Scented Oil
- Febreze NOTICEables Scented Oil
- Glade Air Infusions
- Glade PlugIn Scented Oil
- Oust Air Sanitizer Spray
Low levels or no phthalates detected:
- Citrus Magic
- Febreze Air Effects Air Refresher
- Lysol Brand II Disinfectant
- Oust Fan Liquid Refills
- Renuzit Subtle Effects
Further Dangers
Phthalates have also been linked to an increase of diabetes and obesity in children who are exposed to the harmful chemical. Since phthalates are found in soft plastic, it is important to rid your home of other sources of phthalates in addition to synthetic air freshener.
The bad news is that phthalates are not the only dangerous chemical in your air freshener. For instance, most synthetic air fresheners are known to emit terpene. When this volatile compound encounters ozone, the combination of the two elements creates formaldehyde, which the International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies as a dangerous human carcinogen.
Another worrisome side effect is that air freshener can increase your risk of asthma by as much as 50%, according to a study by the European Community Respiratory Health Survey. Clearly, synthetic air fresheners simply pose too many threats to the health of your family, even if they don’t contain phthalates.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re worried about your home smelling bad once you discontinue your use of synthetic air fresheners, incorporate the following strategies in order to create naturally fresh air within your home:
- Open your windows every day. Even in the winter, an open window can help to get the air in your home circulating.
- Use natural potpourri. Natural, organic potpourri can be left in a bowl or placed in sachets throughout your home in order to infuse your home with a pleasant, natural aroma.
- Leave boxes of baking soda open in the corners of different rooms. Baking soda can help minimize humidity and eradicate many unpleasant odors.
- Try one of these DIY air fresheners.
What are your recommendations for natural air freshening solutions? We’re looking forward to getting your advice in the comments!