2024 Air Freshener Safety Guide: How to protect your kids, pets and sensitive groups

We all want a fresh smelling home but what makes our spaces smell nice can be dangerous to some members of our family. 

As we head into 2024 it’s important to know the safety considerations of air fresheners for different user groups, children, pets and people with allergies or sensitivities.

This guide will show you how to have a scented home and prioritise the health and safety of all the people in your home. 

Let’s get into the world of safe scenting and find the balance between freshness and wellbeing.

1. Inhalation Hazards : Small airways make children more prone to respiratory irritation from airborne chemicals.
   
   

2. Skin Irritation : Direct contact with some air freshener ingredients can cause skin rashes or allergic reactions.
   
   

3. Accidental Ingestion : Attractive scents and colourful packaging can tempt children to taste or swallow air freshener products.

• Natural, plant based air fresheners
  
  

• Solid or gel air fresheners over sprays
  
  

• Products labelled as child safe

• Keep air fresheners out of reach of children
  
  

• Use in well ventilated areas
  
  

• Consider alternative methods like simmering spices or using essential oil diffusers under supervision

Our furry friends are even more sensitive to air fresheners than us due to their sense of smell and different physiology.

1. Respiratory Issues : Strong scents can irritate pets’ sensitive noses and airways.
   
   

2. Skin Allergies : Some pets may react to air freshener residue on their skin.
   
   

3. Toxicity Concerns : Some ingredients like essential oils can be toxic if ingested by pets.

Create the perfect mood on demand with these Essential Oil-based Air Fresheners

- Baby Powder Air Freshener Spray

- Egyptian Musk Air Freshener Spray

- Cantaloupe Long Lasting Air Freshener Spray

• Pet safe essential oil diffusers (avoid oils toxic to pets)
  
  

• Natural odor absorbers like activated charcoal or baking soda
  
  

• Fragrance free air purifiers

• Keep air fresheners out of reach of pets
  
  

• Monitor your pets for any signs of discomfort or allergic reactions
  
  

• Use in well ventilated areas

For those with allergies or chemical sensitivities choosing the right air freshener is key to a comfortable living space.

• Synthetic fragrances
  
  

• Phthalates
  
  

• Formaldehyde
  
  

• Benzene derivatives

• Headaches
  
  

• Nausea
  
  

• Skin irritation
  
  

• Respiratory difficulties
  
  

• Eye irritation

• Fragrance free air purifiers
  
  

• Natural odor absorbers like zeolite or bamboo charcoal
  
  

• DIY air fresheners using safe ingredients

• Use baking soda to absorb odors
  
  

• Open windows or use air purifiers to improve ventilation

• Clean regularly to prevent odor buildup

Knowledge is power when it comes to choosing safe air fresheners for your home.

• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
  
  

• Phthalates
  
  

• Synthetic musks
  
  

• Formaldehyde

• Full ingredient disclosure
  
  

• Be wary of vague terms like “fragrance” or “parfum”
  
  

• Allergen warnings

Natural ingredients are often seen as safer but both natural and synthetic ingredients can cause reactions in sensitive individuals. Always research specific ingredients and test new products carefully.

How you use air fresheners is just as important as what you use.

• Keep out of direct sunlight and heat
  
  

• Use in well-ventilated areas
  
  

• Don’t use near food preparation or eating areas

• Sprays: Use sparingly, and don’t spray on fabrics or skin
  
  

• Plug-ins: Use in open areas and don’t overuse
  
  

• Gels: Use in areas with good airflow

Always use in well ventilated areas to reduce fragrance and irritant concentration in the air.

Sometimes the best option is to skip air fresheners altogether.

• White vinegar in a bowl absorbs odors
  
  

• Coffee grounds can neutralize strong smells
  
  

• Houseplants purify air naturally

• Simmer cinnamon sticks, cloves and orange peels in water
  
  

• Mix water, and a few drops of safe essential oils
  
  

• Make pomander balls with oranges and cloves

• Regular cleaning and vacuuming
  
  

• Use doormats to reduce outdoor pollutants
  
  

• Maintain humidity levels

Here are the answers to help you navigate: