Try as you may to keep your home smelling great, certain factors may occasionally leave a trail of stench that just won’t quit, especially if you keep compost in your kitchen or if you have any pets.
The first step to getting rid of unpleasant smells is to get rid of the source of the stink. While the scent disperses, avoid the urge to spray air freshener around your home; you’ll be glad you did.
The Dangers of Air Fresheners
Ever notice that the label on your bottle air freshener contains a flurry of warning signs? Some even warn that the products can cause illness or death if inhaled and should not be used around children and pets.
One of the main ingredients in air freshener is fragrance, made from a combination of hundreds of petroleum-derived synthetic compounds.
Some of these compounds are known to cause “neurological problems, poor immunity, autoimmune disorders, dermatitis, respiratory distress, asthma, eye irritation, cancer, allergies, infertility, miscarriage, and child behavior disorders including learning disabilities, mental retardation, hyperactivity and ADD” (1).
Another harmful chemical groups found in air fresheners are phthalates, chemicals used to prolong the fragrance in scented products for a longer amount of time.
These chemicals are endocrine disruptors, meaning that they mimic hormones and are know to cause reproductive and neurological toxicity (2).
Phthalates can also cause allergic reactions or even trigger asthma attacks (3).
This combination of chemicals may result in watery eyes, difficulty breathing, nausea, headaches, coma, and burning of mucous membranes of the nose and throat.
Scented candles and other conventional scented products aren’t much better for the health of your family and pets, but there are natural ways to have your home smelling great!
How to Keep your Home Fresh
To clear the air in your home, open up your windows for 10-15 minutes and use one of the two methods below.
You’ll Need
- A mason jar with a lid or a used candle jar
- A hammer
- A fork
- An empty candle container
- A screwdriver
- Baking Soda
- Essential oils of your choice
Method 1:
- Pour the baking soda into a regular-sized jar about a 1/4 of the way full.
- Add 8-10 drops of the essential oil of your choice and use the fork to whisk it together until combined.
- Add a beeswax tealight or short beeswax candle and place it in the baking soda. The candle should not be touching the surrounding glass.
- Light and enjoy!
Method 2:
- Use the hammer and screwdriver to puncture 4-5 holes in the tin lid of your jar.
- Pour the baking soda into the small jar up to 1/3 to 1/2 way full.
- Add 8-10 drops of the essential oil of your choice and use the fork to whisk it together until combined. Add more if necessary.
- Screw the top back on and place it in the room of your choice.
- Enjoy!