Alternatives to Air Fresheners
Natural Ways to Keep Your House Smelling Fresh
With recent studies confirming the toxicity of conventional air fresheners, many households are looking for ways to freshen the air naturally; try one of these ideas.
A September 19, 2007 press release by the National Resources Defense Council (NRDC) confirms the dangers of commercial air fresheners. The majority of the air fresheners tested contained dangerous levels of chemicals that can affect a person’s reproductive development; babies appear to be the most affected by these chemicals. The chemicals that are cause for the most concern fall under the class of phthalates. Phthalates are of so much concern that in October of 2007, a bill was signed into law in California banning their use in children’s products. If you enjoy using air fresheners you don’t have to stop; simply switching to one of these easy-to-use products will provide you with the same effect, but in a way that is safe for your entire household.
Oil Warmers
Oil warmers have been around for centuries; even the Ancient Egyptians used them. Oil warmers can be a great way to complement your décor while adding a fresh scent to your house in a safe manner. You choose your own oils, whether they are essential or fragrance oils, and create a custom scent based on your mood. You can also mix oils together; a common combination is tea tree oil with lavender oil. The combination provides you with a relaxing but clean-smelling aroma. You can also scent your house with seasonal flair; peppermint oil during the Christmas holidays will keep everyone in the holiday spirit.
Lamp Rings
It is not recommended that essential or fragrance oils be placed directly on light bulbs; using a lamp ring will provide you with a similar effect. Lamp rings can be made out of a variety of products but most are either brass or terracotta. The ring sits on the top of a light bulb and has a small lip for the oil. As the light bulb heats up, it helps to diffuse the oil and spread the aroma throughout the room. You can place lamp rings on lamps in several areas of a room, or house, to increase the consistency of the aroma.
Fan Diffuser
Fan diffusers are one of the easiest ways to freshen your house. The oil is placed on an absorbent pad and then the fan spreads the smell about. Fan diffusers vary; some are battery-operated so more portable while others require an electrical outlet. Fan diffusers come in a variety of sizes; the larger the fan the larger the area that it can scent.
Making the change from commercial air fresheners to one of the options listed above is easy and inexpensive. Knowing that you’re not exposing your family to hazardous chemicals is worth the little extra effort these products require.
Source:
NRDC
