Toxic Nation | Pollution. It's In You.

For all those who thought fragranced products were great ways to spruce up the home, a bit of a warning.

A study published in the Environmental Impact Assessment Review journal says that most fragranced products for the home emit a number of toxic chemicals into the air, deteriorating your indoor air quality and endangering your health.

The study looked at six commonly-used products: dryer sheets, fabric softeners, laundry detergent, and three types of air freshener: solid, spray and oil. Findings showed that together the products emitted over 100 different volatile organic compounds (VOCs), like benzene and formaldehyde, all of which were above levels of exposure considered to be safe for humans.

Federal laws do not require manufacturers to label their fragranced products with a list of ingredients, so it is often difficult for consumers to make informed choices. Even products labeled as ‘all-natural’ or ‘unscented’ can contain toxics like phthalates, the controversial hormone-disrupting chemicals linked to birth defects and cancer.

The report recommends that consumers avoid synthetic air fresheners. Below are some great all-natural alternatives:

• Opening the window : Studies show that the air inside the home is often more polluted than the air outside. Open your window and let in the fresh air!
• Baking soda :   Put baking soda in an unsealed container and place in enclosed areas like the closet or the fridge.
• Citrus air fresheners :   Place a few slices of lemon, grapefruit or orange in a pot with enough water to cover and let simmer with the lid open.
• Essential oil diffusers or sprays :   Fill an aromatherapy diffuser with water and 4-5 drops of a pure essential oil, and light the candle. Alternatively, create air sprays using essential oils, baking soda, lemon juice and water.
• Plants :   Aloe Vera and Chrysanthemum absorb a number of indoor air toxins, while English Ivy can remove benzene, and Fig Tree and Spider Plants can remove formaldehyde. Hang dried herbs like Basil, Thyme, Oregano, Sage, Rosemary.

Read the full story on fragranced products on NaturalNews.com.

Read the Environmental Impact Assessment Review journal article abstract by Anne. C. Steinemann here.

In 2007, Green Living Online published an air freshener hit list, rating phthalate levels in a number of air freshener brands. Check out that list here.

Cheers,

Sarah