Feeling Fresh With Air Fresheners? Here’s How They Are Causing Harm to You and the Environment

Air fresheners are commonly used in households and workspaces to combat unpleasant odours and promote a pleasant environment.

However, many people are unaware of the potential health risks associated with these products.

In addition, the environmental impact of air fresheners is often overlooked. In this article, we will explore how air fresheners can harm both human health and the environment and discuss alternative approaches to creating a pleasant indoor environment.

Health Risks of Air Fresheners

Many air fresheners contain chemicals that can be harmful to human health. One such chemical is phthalates, which are used to make plastics more flexible and are also found in some air fresheners as solvents and fragrances.

Studies have linked phthalates to reproductive issues, developmental delays, and asthma. Formaldehyde is another chemical commonly found in air fresheners that can cause respiratory problems, eye irritation, and headaches.

In addition to the chemicals themselves, air fresheners can also release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air.

VOCs can cause a range of health problems, including headaches, nausea, and eye and throat irritation. People with asthma and other respiratory conditions may be particularly sensitive to VOCs.

Environmental Impact of Air Fresheners

In addition to the potential health risks, air fresheners also have a negative impact on the environment.

Many air fresheners come in disposable containers that end up in landfills, contributing to the growing problem of waste disposal.

In addition, the production of air fresheners often involves the use of fossil fuels and other resources, contributing to climate change and other environmental issues.

Alternative Approaches to Creating a Pleasant Indoor Environment

Fortunately, there are alternative approaches to creating a pleasant indoor environment that does not involve the use of air fresheners.

One such approach is to use natural alternatives, such as essential oils. Essential oils can be used to create a pleasant scent in a room without the use of harmful chemicals.

However, it is important to note that some essential oils can be toxic to pets, so it is important to use them with caution.

Another approach is to reduce the need for air fresheners altogether. Proper ventilation is essential to creating a healthy indoor environment.

Opening windows and doors to let in fresh air can go a long way towards reducing unpleasant odours.

Regular cleaning is also important to remove dust, dirt, and other particles that can contribute to bad odours.

Finally, maintaining a healthy indoor environment, including controlling humidity levels and minimizing exposure to allergens, can also help to reduce the need for air fresheners.

In summary, air fresheners have detrimental effects on health and the environment. The chemicals and synthetic fragrances can cause respiratory issues and allergies.

They also release volatile organic compounds, contributing to air pollution and climate change. Single-use packaging adds to waste and pollution.

Natural alternatives like essential oils and opening windows offer safer and eco-friendly options. Practicing good hygiene and minimizing chemical use can also help reduce the need for air fresheners.

Organica Biotech’s OB Care Washroom Odour Control Solutions is equipped with Molecular Sponge Technology™ that combines natural plant-derived oils and powerful enzymes to tackle odour molecules at their source.

Our two-step process of adsorption and neutralisation ensures the effective elimination of odour-causing germs, thereby covering all bases and making washroom maintenance a hassle-free experience.