Many of us turn to store-bought air fresheners to freshen up our surroundings from time to time. These can include spray air fresheners, plug-ins, gel-based, hanging or clip-on products for cars, scented candles with synthetic fragrances containing paraffin wax and even oil-based air fresheners containing synthetic chemicals.   

While these air fresheners do a great job of masking unpleasant odours, they also often release harmful pollutants that are a danger to both our health and the environment. This is because air fresheners emit more than 100 different chemicals, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as benzene and formaldehyde that react with the ozone and other indoor oxidants, releasing toxic molecules. Research by University of York revealed that aerosol sprays actually emitted more harmful VOC air pollutants when compared with all the vehicles in the UK.  

Chemicals found in most air fresheners can contribute to respiratory problems, headaches, and even cancer with prolonged exposure. Not to mention, synthetic fragrances in air fresheners often contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals which can interfere with human hormone regulation.   

Scented Sticks for Aromatherapy (Image: Alesia Kozik/Pexels)

According to a study published in Preventive Medicine Reports, about one third of the Australian population have reported experiencing adverse health effects from fragranced products, including respiratory issues, migraine headaches and asthma attacks. The study also found that over 70 per cent of participants were not aware that fragranced products (even those labelled green or organic) can emit hazardous air pollutants.   

The impact of air fresheners goes beyond chemicals, with many also coming in single-use plastic packaging that can cumulatively generate a significant amount of waste. There has been an increase in the number of these products made from recyclable materials in recent years, but this doesn’t make up for the overall impact of the products and the emissions produced during their manufacturing, transportation and disposal.   

The good news is there are alternatives to what we buy from stores that are not only chemical-free and free from pollutants, but also cheaper and low-waste.   

Here are some solutions:  

• Repurpose fruit peels, herbs and spices 

Instead of discarding citrus peels, turn them into a pot simmer using a simple recipe with spices like cloves and cinnamon sticks. Another option is to dry peels and garden herbs like rosemary, lavender or other fragrant herbs and place in a bowl around the house to release a natural, aromatic scent.  

• Limit exposure to chemicals 

Resist the urge to immediately throw out all the products you might already have, as this can lead to more damage than intended. It’s generally fine to use air fresheners in moderation and dispose of them responsibly disposal by checking Recycling Near You or your local council for guidance. To limit exposure to chemicals in these products, try to keep the space you are using them in well-ventilated and check the product labels for safety instructions.   

• Avoid artificial fragrances  

These often contain the most chemicals and can be toxic, and there are plenty of products on the market that use natural fragrance (such as citrus) instead. For an old-fashioned home-made air freshener and linen spray, try combining fragrant herbs, lemon and water in a spray bottle for a refreshing alternative around the house.    

• Keep indoor plants 

Plants have significant health and wellbeing benefits, and there are plenty of Australian natives that offer both fragrance and culinary benefits such as lemon myrtle. There are even some types of plants that can absorb toxic pollutants at home, purifying the air and helping prevent further indoor air quality damage.  

• Check source of materials before purchasing 

Make a habit of checking the materials and ingredients contained in products before buying, as this will help be more conscious with consumption. Avoid retailers that don’t list the country of origin or methods of extraction for their products and choose local where possible.  

• Utilise common pantry items that are natural deodorisers 

Items like baking soda, white vinegar, lemon juice, coffee grounds and tea leaves each have their own deodorising and, in some cases, disinfectant properties. Place sachets of these items in odour-prone areas and replace them every now and then for an all-natural odour eliminator.