With the new year in full swing, I’ve been thinking a lot about the little changes that make a big difference in our family’s life. And guess what’s at the top of my list? Bidding farewell to those plug-in air fresheners. Yep, those sneaky little fragrance boxes might be doing more harm than good. Let’s chat about ditching the toxins and Switching to Nature’s Best instead. Why are we making these changes and what are we using now?
What’s the Fuss About Air Fresheners Anyway?
So, I did a bit of digging into these everyday air fresheners we’ve been using. Turns out, they’re loaded with stuff like phthalates and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). I know, it sounds like a chemistry class, but stick with me. These chemicals can be real troublemakers, especially for the kiddos and pets running around our homes. We’re talking itchy eyes, headaches, and yeah, even messing with our brains. Neurotoxins in our living room? No thanks!
Plants Over Plugs: Going Natural
Alright, so we know the problem, but what’s the solution? It’s actually pretty cool – going all-natural. I’ve been experimenting with essential oil diffusers and, let me tell you, they’re a game-changer. You get to choose your scents (hello, lavender and peppermint) and no weird chemicals. Also, have you ever tried beeswax candles? They’re like nature’s air purifiers. And plants! Not only do they make the house look great, but they also clean the air. Who knew, right?
One Step at a Time: Making the Switch
Now, I’m not saying you should go and throw out every air freshener you own right this second. It’s all about baby steps. Start with one room and see how it feels. Read those labels carefully, and remember, just because it says ‘natural’ doesn’t always mean it is. Oh, and get creative – making your own air fresheners can be a fun family activity. Plus, it’s pretty satisfying knowing exactly what’s going into the air your family breathes.
Breathe Easy, Live Happy
Making this switch isn’t just about smelling good, it’s about feeling good too. Since we’ve started using natural alternatives, the house just feels lighter, and honestly, I feel better knowing I’m doing something good for my family and the planet. It’s like hitting two birds with one stone – or should I say, two scents with one diffuser?
Wrapping It Up with a Breath of Fresh Air
So, there you have it. The Great Air Freshener Toss of 2024 is underway in our house. It’s a small step, but hey, it’s about the little things, right? Here’s to making our homes a little healthier and a lot happier this year. Who’s with me?
References:
- Air Fresheners May Improve Odors, but Harm Your Indoor Air Quality …, www.washingtonpost.com/weather/2023/02/22/air-freshener-indoor-air-quality/.
- Alford, Kyle L, and Naresh Kumar. “Pulmonary Health Effects of Indoor Volatile Organic Compounds-A Meta-Analysis.” International journal of environmental research and public health vol. 18,4 1578. 7 Feb. 2021, doi:10.3390/ijerph18041578
- National Research Council (US) Committee on Neurotoxicology and Models for Assessing Risk. Environmental Neurotoxicology. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 1992. 1, Introduction: Defining the Problem of Neurotoxicity. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK234243/
- “Interior Landscape Plants for Indoor Air Pollution Abatement – NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS).” NASA, ntrs.nasa.gov/citations/19930073077.
- “What Is Fragrance?” Environmental Working Group, 10 Jan. 2024, www.ewg.org/news-insights/news/2023/07/what-fragrance.
