Tip 27: A Better Air Freshener
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Posted by Christopher Gavigan
The best natural air freshener is, of course, fresh air itself, so opening wide the windows in the morning to get some air circulating is the best way to dispel stale aromas and VOC buildup. However, it can be useful to have a room-freshening spray on hand to brighten up a room or clear a stubborn smell.
Store bought air fresheners contain any number of synthetic chemicals, which can cause respiratory conditions so it's best to make your own.
Blend 10 drops of your chosen essential oil in 7 tablespoons water. Put the ingredients in a spray-bottle (one used for plants is fine) and shake well before spritzing around the home. Try lavender essential oil for calm, orange and bergamot for freshness, and lemon and pine to add a great scent to kitchens and bathrooms.
Posted by Natalie Cadranel on 10/24 at 01:37 PM
Adena, interesting point. The tip doesn’t mention storing, but rather creating natural air fresheners as you need them. This will prevent any long-term growth as the water/oils won’t be stored, but used.
Posted by Karen Rani on 10/24 at 02:11 PM
I found this site through BlogHer.org (I write there as well) and I’m so impressed. You’ve made me think about little changes we can make as a family to help the environment and to raise our two boys with less chemicals in the house. We’ve switched from ziploc bags in the lunches to Tupperware containers, from Jet Dry in the dishwasher to vinegar, and I’ve thought about every single thing I’ve been throwing in the garbage. We started composting last summer and we recycle alot too. I’m looking forward to more information on how to clean the house without any chemicals. Thank you.
Karen
Posted by Merrik's Mom on 10/27 at 06:17 AM
Many essential oils such as lavendar that Christopher suggests can be used in the spray, is naturally antimicrobal and should be able to be stored for several weeks to months. You can also keep your prepared spray in the refrigerator if you are concerned. A FANTASTIC line of cleaning products is Mrs. Myers Clean Day.
Posted by on 06/07 at 07:01 AM
A study released last week by the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) evaluated 14 air fresheners off the shelf of a local Walgreens and found that 12 contained variable amounts of substances called phthalates (pronounced THAL-ates), a group of chemicals that are used to dissolve and carry fragrances, soften plastics and also as sealants and adhesives. Phthalates are commonly found in a variety of products, including cosmetics, paints, nail polish and children’s toys — and have long been at the center of a larger international controversy over their health effects.
Leading medical & health experts team up with celebrity parents to help you create a cleaner, greener, safer home and lifestyle.
Posted by Adena on 10/24 at 08:57 AM
While creating natural products is always a good idea. One needs to be concerned about creating products that are breeding grounds for bacteria and other growths. Water in any product needs to be properly preserved as it the perfect element for microbial growth.