Air Fresheners for the Eco-Aware

[Dean D]

Ever since the "health-conscious craze" began in earnest among the movement's early adopters a few decades ago, the toxic nature of many foods and household products has been of growing concern. Now, more and more mainstream consumers are becoming aware of the damaging effects of many types of chemicals, preservatives, and additives found in foods and common household products. One of these product types is air fresheners.

Effective elimination of household odors is something almost everyone makes provision for – unpleasant odors in bathrooms and kitchens are part of daily life, and finding ways to get rid of or mask these smells is just as common as the odors themselves. Choosing healthful alternatives to many of the popular brands of air fresheners is growing in importance to eco-conscious consumers. This is a result of either personal reactions to the toxic nature of the products, or the awareness of new research that indicates that many of these products are, indeed, harmful.

Research conducted by Anne Steinemann, a University of Washington professor of civil and environmental engineering and public affairs, was featured in Science Daily. Her investigation found that "top-selling laundry products and air fresheners emitted dozens of different chemicals. All six products tested gave off at least one chemical regulated as toxic or hazardous under federal laws, but none of those chemicals was listed on the product labels."

Another feature on the toxicity of many common air fresheners, by Richard Alexander for Consumer Law Page, states that "Most air fresheners interfere with your ability to smell by coating your nasal passages with an oil film, or by releasing a nerve deadening agent. Known toxic chemicals found in an air freshener include Formaldehyde: Highly toxic, known carcinogen. Phenol: When phenol touches your skin it can cause it to swell, burn, peel, and break out in hives…"

The awareness growing among people about the hazards inherent in products once used without a second thought is causing health- and environmentally-conscious consumers to find new alternatives for clearing the air. Solutions that meet the need without jeopardizing people or planet can be simple to use, and there are effective, toxin-free products available as well.

Some Delicious Organics tips for safely eliminating unwanted household odors include:

• Boost ventilation by opening windows or using exhaust fans.
• Place open boxes of baking soda in the bathrooms and refrigerator.
• Spritz a mixture of pure essential oils and distilled water into the air with a mister.
• Simmer herbs like ginger, rosemary, or basil.
• Decorate with potted plants. They naturally clear carbon dioxide and other toxins Use organic herbal sachets and potpourris.

Another healthful alternative is Ozium, an air purifier registered by the EPA that actually cleanses the air. Purchase Ozium air sanitizers at Atmosphere Products Co., which offers a variety of air fresheners and useful information about the safety of Ozium and other products.