Air safety. choose a non-toxic air freshener. How are air fresheners killing us? Safe Alternatives Harmless Fresheners

A sweet smell in your home can increase your risk of serious health problems, including cancer.

Whether you want your home to be filled with the scent of apple cinnamon pie, clean laundry, or the morning freshness of the forest, you can bet there's an air freshener to match. But did you know that its sweet smell can be harmful to health? Over the past decade, scientists have conducted research that has identified potentially harmful chemicals contained in such refreshers.

In 2015, the US air freshener market generated about $1.8 billion in aerosols, electrical appliances, candles, oil sprays, and other products. According to the National Consulate for Resource Protection, 75% of families use such funds.

University of Melbourne professor Ann Steinemann has done extensive research on the health effects of fragrances. She was able to find out that one quarter of the ingredients in air fresheners are classified as toxic or dangerous. “Ultimately it all depends on individual susceptibility,” she says. – Symptoms may not appear. However, if these drugs do not kill you, it does not mean at all that they are completely harmless. Some effects may appear later."

How much should you be concerned?

Scented products have been found to contain hazardous chemicals that are released into the air you breathe. However, not every researcher confirms the fact of the harmfulness of these funds. Kent Pinkerton, professor at the Center for Health and the Environment at the University of California, Davis, specializes in the effects of toxic substances on the respiratory system. It studies the effects of particles present in the air both indoors and outdoors.

“I'm not sure air fresheners should be banned,” says Dr. Pinkerton, “we don't have hard evidence. But there are definitely some chemicals that you need to be careful about. As you consider this question, consider what your lungs experience on a daily basis. Our lungs are like a filter. On a normal, even the clearest day, we breathe in millions of particles and still feel good. Either these particles are non-toxic, or they are trapped by the filter.”

When evaluating the potential risk of using products like air fresheners, consider the weakest links. In this case, these are people whose lungs are already more susceptible (for example, those who suffer from asthma or chronic lung diseases), as well as children. “Children don't have a fully developed metabolic system yet—their bodies can't process certain substances,” says Dr. Pinkerton, who is also a professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the Davis School of Medicine. “Regardless of what is in the air, due to the relationship between activity level and body size, children are 30 times more exposed to external influences of various substances.”

Dr. Pinkerton believes that people should consider risk in order to make the best choices for themselves and their families. “We are seriously concerned about long-term exposure to harmful particles in the air. Using air fresheners for years has a potential risk.”

5 chemicals in air fresheners to be careful with

If you do use these products, be aware that they contain the following chemicals.

Volatile organic compounds

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are gaseous by-products released into the air through a range of products, from paints to disinfectants and car cleaners, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. The most common volatile organic compounds are classified as toxic or hazardous.

According to a 2015 study by Dr. Steinemann, published in the journal Air Quality, Atmosphere & Health, air fresheners may contain acetone, ethanol, d-limonene, pinene, and acetate. Depending on the time of exposure to these substances, as well as individual sensitivity, toxic volatile organics can cause a range of symptoms, including irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, nausea, headaches, and even damage to the liver, kidneys and central nervous system.

“The most common chemicals found in fragrances are terpenes (limonene, pinene, etc.) and they are quite toxic,” says Steinemann. formaldehyde and ultrafine particles. Ultrafine particles cause heart and lung disease and respiratory problems."

To reduce exposure to such substances, the Agency recommends increased ventilation when using products containing the above elements. And also follow all the precautions listed on the packages and throw away used flavors in special containers for environmental safety.

Formaldehyde

The scientific community considered the safety of air fresheners about ten years ago. Research has shown that an abundance of potentially harmful chemicals and by-products such as formaldehyde are released into the air with every press of a spray button. In 2015, the journal Science of The Total Environment published an assessment of the risk of exposure to these chemicals in the respiratory tract under the most realistic scenario: using products containing harmful ingredients in the home. Scientists have found that electric air fresheners release a significant amount of formaldehyde (17% of the legal limit) and when combined with other products that are used indoors (such as cleaning products and furniture polish), formaldehyde exposure is 34% in 30 minutes.

“Formaldehydes are known carcinogens,” says Dr. Steinemann, “in terms of symptoms, you may experience irritation in your eyes, nose, throat, and you may also experience coughing, sneezing, bronchitis, and dizziness.” The reaction and intensity of the manifested signs depends on individual sensitivity.

According to the World Health Organization, other sources of formaldehyde include the following: rubber contained in chipboard and plywood, paints, varnishes, cleaning products, cosmetics, etc. “When some chemicals are used in combination with others, the possibility of pathological reactions increases,” notes Dr Steinemann. “You increase the risk by combining products with fragrances, as well as cleaners and disinfectants.”

Worried about the content of this substance in your home? Formaldehyde is one of the few air pollutants that can be measured with a special device. Assess and then, if possible, eliminate the source. If this is not possible, try to reduce the intensity of exposure by using sealing materials for all trim surfaces and furniture.

Phthalic ester

If your pregnant relative or young children spend time at your home, you should consider the safety of the usual ways to eliminate odors. One study conducted in 2007 looked at 14 types of fresheners. Of these, 12 were found to contain phthalic acid ester. And even those on which it was indicated "odorless" and "completely natural."

Phthalic ether, which is used to eliminate odors, causes changes in hormonal levels, poor sperm quality, birth defects, and reproductive disorders. What's more, a type of phthalic ether called Di (2-ethylhexyl), found in products like air fresheners, is a carcinogen.

1,4 dichlorobenzene

One of the main ingredients in mothballs, odor removers, and toilet fresheners, 1,4 dichlorobenzene (1,4 DCB), has been linked to two major diseases. It can cause deterioration in lung function. And as a result of an experiment on mice, it turned out that prolonged use of products containing this element causes liver cancer. This is reported by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

“Even a slight decrease in lung function can lead to serious consequences,” says scientist Stephanie London, lead author of the study. "The best way to protect yourself, especially for children with asthma and other respiratory conditions, is to reduce the use of products and materials containing these compounds."

Allergens

For people suffering from seasonal allergies, chronic asthma, lung disease or the common cold, air fresheners should be out of the question. This is reported by Jeanne Tuck, an allergist from Cape Gerardo and a representative of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.

“Sprays, suppositories and fragrances all contain substances that irritate the respiratory tract,” says Dr. Tuck. “Patients with asthma and other chronic lung diseases or allergic rhinitis already have inflammation, so irritants can further exacerbate the problem.”

According to information provided in 2011 by the American College, volatile organic compounds found in air fresheners can cause a 34% increase in health problems in people with asthma. “The example I give is: if you do not smoke and go into a room filled with tobacco smoke, will you feel sick and suffocate? And if you are already in the midst of a cold, how much worse will you perceive polluted air? If you are sensitive enough to the effects of volatile organics, it can be harmful to your health. As an allergist, I do not recommend any air fresheners to my patients,” says Dr. Tak.

The safest method for applying fragrances indoors

If you're concerned about the effects of VOCs, phthalic ether, and other chemicals found in home fresheners, but still want to fill your home with a pleasant fragrance, try to use sources that are close to natural. Brew mint tea or peel an orange. Only natural pure sources are free from various harmful substances. Even essential oils can contain unsafe chemicals.

Another way to freshen up a room is to simply open the windows. “Why use air fresheners at all? They are not designed to purify and disinfect the air; it's just a chemical mixture that masks odors,” says Dr. Steinemann. The best smell is its absence. This means that your home is actually clean.

The problem of unpleasant indoor air is familiar to everyone, but you really want the house to smell of freshness. To date, the choice of air fresheners and flavors is huge. Store shelves are full of different aerosols, sprays, crystals and bottles with odorous liquid and gel for different tastes and wallets. But, despite all this diversity, there is often a desire to make a freshener with your own hands.

Why do you need to create air fresheners with your own hands

Everyone who cares at least a little about the health of their loved ones, the question arises: “How do all these fresheners and “odors” affect the human body?”. After all, I want not only to surround myself with pleasant smells, but also to be sure of their safety. This is especially true for young children and allergy sufferers.

The fact is that the composition of purchased flavors and air fresheners includes oil refining products, which are carcinogens and pose a danger to our body and the health of pets. Aerosols are the most dangerous - many of them not only contribute to the destruction of the ozone layer, but can also cause various diseases of the lungs, bronchi and other organs. Being in a room in which such a "fresher" was sprayed is the same as being in a slow-acting gas chamber.

Therefore, the most correct option would be to make fresheners and flavors with your own hands from harmless and even useful ingredients. There are many options, and even a child can cook them.

This is how “delicious” natural home air fresheners can look

Options for creating natural air fresheners for the home

Let's consider different options for homemade air fresheners for the living room, bedroom, hallway, kitchen, bathroom and toilet, and also learn how to make smelly ones for car interiors. And most importantly - all with your own hands and only from ingredients that are environmentally friendly and healthy for the body.

Air fresheners for the apartment

To make your own air freshener, you will need your favorite essential oils, strong scented dried flowers, dried citrus peels, fragrant plant sprigs, and even some spices. Since even such a natural ingredient as an essential oil can cause allergies, we strongly advise you to first make sure that the aroma of a particular plant is tolerated.

Do-it-yourself gel air freshener made from gelatin and essential oils

The most "long-lasting" air freshener. To decorate and enhance the aroma, you can safely use dried flowers, such as violet, rose or peony, dried citrus peels, as well as various beads, pebbles, shells and ribbons for decoration. Also take care of a beautiful vase or jar in which the flavor will be located.

Tip: choose a container made of transparent glass or plastic - this way you will see all the "beauty" if you decorate the flavor with decorative elements.

So, you will need:

• boiling water - 1 cup;
• gelatin - 2 tbsp. spoons;
• glycerin - 1–1.5 tbsp. spoons;
• food coloring - 1/3 teaspoon;
• essential oil.

You don’t need expensive ingredients to make a “homemade” gel freshener

Gelatin will be needed to create a gel-like consistency, and glycerin will prevent the flavor from drying out quickly. Food coloring will give a beautiful color to the resulting gel. You can also add a cinnamon stick or 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon if you like the smell. You will need a little oil, only 5–10 drops for a moderate aroma and 15–20 for a stronger and more saturated one.

After you have prepared a suitable container and all the ingredients, proceed to the action.

1. Bring water to a boil in a saucepan and remove from heat.
2. Dilute gelatin in boiling water and cool slightly.
3. Add dye.
4. Add cinnamon (optional).
5. Pour in the glycerin.
6. Add essential oil.
7. Pour the resulting liquid into a container.
8. Put decorative items, flowers, peels, aromatic herbs.
9. Leave to cool for 2-2.5 hours.

Here's a pretty "jelly" you get if you add dyes of blue, green and orange colors

After the air freshener hardens, it will turn into a thick jelly. Of course, you can leave everything as it is, but we advise you to use your imagination and decorate the jar. This will turn out a fragrant home decor, which will not only give a unique aroma to the room, but also decorate it.

By the way, according to the same principle, you can make a “New Year's” air freshener using oils of coniferous trees, twigs and cones for decoration.

You can extend the life of your air freshener if you notice that the gel is starting to dry out. Lubricate the surface of the gel with a few drops of essential oil and glycerin, and it will delight you with a fresh aroma for a long time.

soda freshener

A very simple air freshener. You will need:

• a small glass or plastic jar with a lid (250 ml);
• soda - 1 tbsp. a spoon;
• essential oil - 30-40 drops;
• foil;
• rubber band.

Unlike gel, the preparation of this flavor will take a few minutes.. Do the following:

• pour soda into a container;
• measure 30-40 drops of any essential oil;
• mix soda with oil until a homogeneous consistency;
• pull a piece of foil over the neck of the container and secure with an elastic band;
• using a toothpick, make many holes in the foil;
• cut the ends of the foil in a circle;
• close the container with a lid.

Soda freshener is simple in appearance, but very fragrant

No food coloring was needed for this freshener option, since each essential oil has its own color, although you can “tint” the baking soda and even add flower petals if you wish. Due to the large amount of oil, such a fragrance can have a rather concentrated smell, so we do not recommend keeping it open all the time. You can experiment with the amount of oil, and if you use a container made of flexible plastic, then with a few clicks, the fluids will penetrate the room through the holes and fill it with fragrance and freshness.

Flavoring with salt and petals

For this option, we will “preserve” beautifully smelling flowers, petals and fragrant herbs.

In addition to flowers and herbs, you will need:

• glass jar with screw cap;
• ordinary kitchen salt - approximately 500 g, but less will be needed;
• alcohol or vodka - 50 ml;
• a few drops of essential oil - optional.

Salt air freshener is eco-friendly and safe

When you have prepared all the components, you can get to work.

1. Pour flowers on the bottom of the jar - 1–1.5 cm.
2. Sprinkle the flowers with salt in one layer.
3. Alternate flowers and salt until about 2.5 cm is left to the top.
4. Add alcohol and tightly close the jar with a lid.
5. Shake well so that the entire contents are saturated with alcohol.
6. Put in a dark place and do not open for 2 weeks.
7. Shake the jar every few days.
8. After 2 weeks, open the jar and pour the aromatic mixture into any container.

Don't worry about it smelling like alcohol. The characteristic smell will quickly disappear, and the magical aroma of flowers will fill the room. As a container for flavoring, you can use vases, bowls, glasses.

The only drawback of this fragrance option is that you have to wait for two whole weeks, but then your house will be filled with garden scents for a long time.

Air freshener with essential oils

The simplest version of the freshener, which will help to refresh and fill the air with aromas in a matter of seconds at the right time. You will need:

• essential oils;
• pure water (preferably distilled);
• conventional sprayer.

You can use an atomizer from an old cosmetic product (for example, hair spray) or from an expired “purchased” air freshener. If you are using an old sprayer, be sure to wash it well. You will choose the amount of essential oil yourself, focusing on your own sense of smell and the size of the container. For half a liter of water, we suggest taking 10 drops of oil, and then proceed as you wish. You will need just enough water to be able to shake the bottle before use.

This freshener is suitable for any room in the house: living room, bedroom, kitchen and even bathroom. You can buy several atomizers and make a fragrance for each room by adding different fragrance oils. For the hallway, you can take rosemary or cedar essential oil, for the living room - orange, grapefruit, ylang-ylang; for the bedroom - lavender or patchouli. Feel free to use spruce, cedar or lemon oil in the bathroom and toilet, and orange, geranium, mint oils in the kitchen.

Make a wonderful home freshener with your favorite essential oil

Baby Body Oil Fragrance

You will need the following ingredients:

• baby body oil - 150–200 ml;
• vodka - 2 tbsp. spoons;
• essential oil 5-10 drops;
• wooden skewers;
• glass vase;
• decor as desired.

Oil, unlike water, practically does not evaporate. This fact is of great importance, since this flavoring option will be "open". As for wooden skewers, wood is known to be able to absorb liquids and flavors.

Regarding the container, you will need a transparent vase with a wide neck, and since it will also act as a decor, take care of decorative pebbles, balls, ribbons and other decorations.

So, let's get down to business:

• pour baby oil into a vase;
• add vodka and essential oil;
• mix everything well;
• dip skewers into a vase - the more, the better;
• turn the sticks over after 3 hours and your freshener is ready.

While the sticks absorb "smells", you can decorate the vase. After 2-3 hours, the skewers will be completely saturated and then they will exude a magical aroma for a long time.

This homemade room fragrance will last at least 3 weeks. All you need to do is turn the skewers periodically.

"Liquid" room fresheners can also act as decor

Fragrance with the smell of your favorite perfume

Everyone has a perfume that is running out, or an empty bottle that still exudes a subtle smell and therefore it is a pity to throw it away. We invite you to give new life to your favorite fragrance. You will need:

• perfume bottle;
• small scissors;
• distilled or boiled water;
• wooden cooking skewers;
• syringe.

We only need a bottle, so the atomizer will have to be removed with old scissors. It is advisable to sterilize the skewers in boiling water. Using a syringe, fill the bottle with water by one quarter and insert wooden sticks into the neck. The intensity and duration of the scent will depend on the quality of the perfume itself or the eau de parfum. Since the neck in perfume bottles is narrow, the liquid will evaporate very slowly and this fragrance will last for a long time.

The appearance of the fragrance will depend on the beauty of the bottle.

Video: how to make a freshener from your favorite perfume

Citrus flavor for the kitchen

Unfortunately, the kitchen also has unpleasant odors. A citrus air freshener in a spray bottle will help eliminate the smell of runaway milk or a burnt dinner. You will need:

• spray;
• vodka - 200 ml;
• orange, lemon - 1 pc.;
• water - boiled or distilled;
• orange oil - 3-4 drops.

You will only need fruit peels, so you can eat the pulp for health.

Citrus peels are the perfect kitchen freshener.

Tip: cut fruit peels into thin strips - they will not only be a source of smell, but also have a decorative look in the bottle.

After the pulp has been separated from the skin and the latter cut into strips, you can start preparing the freshener.

1. Place half of the peels in a spray bottle.
2. Store the rest of the peels in the refrigerator.
3. Fill the contents with vodka.
4. Put the spray bottle in a dark place and let the contents brew for 2 days.
5. Open the vial.
6. Add essential oil.
7. Throw the rest of the peels into the bottle and add water.
8. Shake the bottle well.

An important ingredient in a citrus freshener is vodka or alcohol.

When you see that the freshener is running out, feel free to take on the preparation of a new one. By the way, any clean container or bottle is useful for this.

Tip: if you need to quickly eliminate an unpleasant smell, and there is no freshener at hand, then take a few grains of coffee, a cinnamon stick or dried citrus peels and put it on a hot gas stove burner. In just a minute, your kitchen will be filled with the aroma of coffee, cinnamon or orange.

Toilet fragrance

To maintain a constant pleasant and fresh smell in the toilet and bathroom, you can use any of the above options. We advise you to choose not only those essential oils that you simply like, but also those that can kill bacteria and fungi. These include tea tree oils, fir, grapefruit, lavender, ylang-ylang, cloves.

Essential oils are the main components of most types of "home" air fresheners.

Because the toilet - not the most sterile place, you will also need additional fragrances for the toilet. They should not only freshen the air, but also have disinfecting and cleansing properties.

Toilet bombs 3 in 1

For 30 bombs with a diameter of 2.5–3 cm, you will need the following ingredients:

• shavings of laundry soap - 3 tbsp. spoons with a slide;
• baking soda - 1 glass;
• citric acid - 3 tbsp. spoons;
• hydrogen peroxide - 2 tbsp. spoons;
• essential oils - 20 drops are enough.

Laundry soap will make the mass from which bombs are to be molded plastic. It also has antimicrobial properties. But, at your discretion, instead of laundry soap, you can take any other, for example, colored. As for citric acid and peroxide, they have a deadly effect on bacteria and fungi. To add additional disinfectant properties to this “explosive” mixture, as well as a magical aroma, we advise you to take four types of oils and measure 5 drops from each. Let's get down to business.

1. Grate the soap on a grater to get about 3 tbsp. heaped spoons.

   Soap is rubbed on a regular grater

2. Melt the chips in a water bath.
3. Pour soda and citric acid into a bowl with soap chips.
4. Mix thoroughly.

   The ingredients are mixed with a regular spoon

5. Add essential oil.
6. Pour in hydrogen peroxide and mix again - you should get a thick, viscous mass.
7. Blind round balls, 2.5–3 cm in diameter.

   To make the bombs have a beautiful round shape, you can use special devices

8. Lay the bombs out on a flat surface, such as a baking sheet lined with newspaper.
9. Leave to dry at room temperature for 4-5 hours.

You can, of course, just mix all the ingredients by rubbing the soap on a fine grater. But to obtain a homogeneous soft consistency, it is recommended to melt the chips first, and then mix with the rest of the components.

To make bombs beautiful, add a little food coloring to the mass. Fragrant multi-colored balls will please the eye and decorate the toilet room. When the "bombs" are dry, you can safely use them. You can store ready-made bombs in a box in the bathroom or put in a bowl, from where they will emit fragrance, further refreshing the room.

In order for the toilet to be always clean and the air in the toilet fresh, you need to throw one such bomb into the toilet or drain tank every day. They abandoned it, waited 5 minutes and washed it off - the smell is pleasant, the toilet bowl is clean, the microbes are destroyed.

And this is how bombs can look if you use dyes

Toilet tablets 3 in 1

Toilet tablets are made in a similar way. You can make them with your hands like bombs or use a silicone mold for ice.

For 30 tablets, we need the following components:

• soda - 2 cups or 15 tbsp. spoons;
• citric acid - 5 tbsp. spoons;
• hydrogen peroxide - 5 tbsp. spoons;
• vinegar 9% - 2.5 tbsp. spoons;
• essential oils - 20–25 drops;
• water.

We add water "by eye", a little bit, so as not to get too liquid mass.

1. In one bowl, mix soda and citric acid.
2. In another bowl, mix vinegar and hydrogen peroxide.
3. Gradually pour the liquid into the mixture of soda and citric acid and stir immediately.
4. Once the contents of the two bowls have been combined, add the essential oils.
5. Add some water.
6. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until smooth.
7. Blind 30 flattened balls or fill the ice molds with the resulting mass.
8. Let the tablets dry for 4-5 hours.

If you use beautiful shapes, then such tablets will be an excellent decor for the toilet room.

Use ready-made tablets in the same way as bombs.

Tip: do not dry the toilet tablets on the radiator - they may crack. Best to dry at room temperature.

You can store the tablets in a regular jar

Making fragrant toilet tablets is not difficult at all.

Video: how to make do-it-yourself toilet freshener tablets

Block toilet freshener 3 in 1

For this type of air freshener, you will need any old toilet wall hanging unit and the following components:

• any soap - 100 g (1 pack of regular or half a pack of laundry);
• vinegar - 1 tbsp. a spoon;
• soda - 2 tbsp. spoons;
• glycerin - 1 tbsp. a spoon;
• essential oil - 10-15 drops.

To enhance the aroma, you can buy a flavor with your favorite smell.

Instructions for preparing the filler:

1. Rub the soap on a fine grater.
2. Mix all ingredients thoroughly in a deep bowl.
3. Form blocks or balls with your hands, depending on what you need for the block.
4. Wrap the rest of the homemade freshener in plastic wrap and store it in a dark place out of the reach of children.

The big plus of such a freshener is that the soap is washed off gradually, so for one person living in an apartment, it is enough for 3-4 weeks. Of course, the duration of such a block will depend on the intensity of visiting the toilet.

With the help of colored soap, you can make bright blocks for the toilet that will not be inferior to the purchased ones.

Gel block toilet freshener

You can also make a gel freshener for the hanging unit yourself. Gelatin will help to achieve the consistency of a thick gel.

Freshener Ingredients:

• gelatin - 20 g;
• water - 1 glass;
• salt - 2 tbsp. spoons;
• soda - 2 tbsp. spoons;
• vinegar - 3 tbsp. spoons;
• essential oils - 30-40 drops;
• food coloring - 1 pack.

Your actions:

1. Pour the gelatin into a deep bowl and fill it with hot water.
2. When the gelatin swells, mix it with water until completely dissolved.
3. Add dye, salt, soda, vinegar, oils and mix until all ingredients are dissolved.
4. Pour the resulting mixture into a shallow container and refrigerate for several hours.
5. After the mass hardens, remove it from the refrigerator and cut into pieces of the desired size.

A shallow rectangular container is suitable as a form. Future jelly is poured with a thickness of 1.5–2 cm, depending on the thickness of the hanging block for the toilet. Jelly is cut according to the shape of the block, and the rest is cut into the same pieces, after which it is carefully wrapped in a film and stored in a freezer.

Cotton wool soaked in essential oils can refresh and absorb unpleasant odors. Just apply 5-10 drops of oil to a small piece of cotton wool and place it in a small jar or bowl. You can enhance the effect of the fragrance by placing it near a heat source.

Car air fresheners

Since the car has long turned from a luxury item into a necessary means of transportation, you need to take care of the air freshener for the cabin. Purchased "odorants" can hardly be called useful for the human body, and the synthetic smell sometimes cuts the nose so much that there is a desire to leave the car and walk.

Learning how to make natural and healthy flavors is easy. We offer several options.

Fragrant sachet

Cotton wool is placed in a small bag of organza (you can buy or sew it yourself), and then 5-10 drops of essential oil are added inside. You can do more, but do not forget that the area of ​​​​the car interior is much smaller than the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe living space, and the smell of pure essential oils is quite concentrated. Such a sachet will delight you with a wonderful aroma for a week. When the smell becomes less noticeable, it will be necessary to add a few drops of oil again.

Instead of cotton wool and oil, you can use coffee beans, aromatic herbs, leaves and petals. The bag can be made of any fabric that is well breathable.

Such a sachet can be hung on a mirror or thrown under the seat.

Coffee beans absorb all unwanted odors

Gel fragrance for car

If you want the flavor to be "in sight", then you have to take care of a beautiful jar. If you still have a container from the old air freshener, then wash it and safely use it.

You can peep the recipe for making a gel freshener above. The only thing is that you need fewer ingredients. For example, it will be enough to prepare a "smell" from 50 ml of water, 10 g of gelatin, 1 teaspoon of glycerin and 5-10 drops of essential oil.

You can also use a container from an old hanging liquid fragrance by pouring essential oil into it.

Fabric Hanging Car Air Freshener

Another version of the hanging fragrance. You will need:

• favorite essential oil or aromatic composition;
• a piece of felt, felt or thick overcoat fabric;
• cardboard for making a stencil;
• pen or marker;
• cord or ribbon;
• scissors.

Armed with everything you need, get down to business.

1. On cardboard, draw any object that you like: a leaf, a flower, a Christmas tree, a heart - whatever.
2. Cut out the drawing with scissors.
3. Attach the design to the fabric and circle with a pen.
4. Of course, if you are a good artist, you can draw directly on the fabric.
5. Cut out the design from the fabric.

   It turned out to be a pretty nice Christmas tree for the future flavoring

6. Make a hole in the top with scissors or a sharp object.
7. Pass a ribbon or cord through the hole.
8. Apply 10-15 drops of oil to a cloth.
9. Hang it on a mirror and enjoy your favorite scent.

   Felt "herringbone" will fill the car interior with a delicate aroma

It will be pleasant to be in such a salon, besides, essential oils benefit the body.

Video: how to make a car air freshener from fabric and in the form of a sachet

How long do home-made "smells" last and for what area are they enough

Any residential air freshener made in the suggested quantities is sufficient for an area of ​​15–18 m². For large rooms, we recommend using two fragrances, placing them in different corners. On average, one such air freshener lasts 2-4 weeks, but you can keep them fresh with the help of the tips above.

As for toilet fresheners, the validity period will depend on the number of people in the house and the frequency of visits. "Smells" for cars please an average of 1-2 weeks, but their smell can be updated on the principle of updating a gel home freshener or simply applying a few drops of oil to a sachet or cloth.

My name is Olya, I am 29 years old. I like to write articles, make artistic product descriptions for websites. The following topics are in priority: jewelry, clothing, interior items, cooking, as well as useful tips (household). It is very important for me that readers, customers and, of course, myself like my texts!

There are no such people who would not love the feeling of cleanliness and freshness. In order for fresh air to enter the room, you need to move the curtains and open the windows. The fastest and easiest way to create a feeling of cleanliness and freshness is to apply a fragrant aerosol freshener.

But it's no secret that these air fresheners contain substances that are not only toxic to the environment, but can also cause health problems. For example, an allergy attack or even provoke asthma.

There are two types of air fresheners. These are those that act instantly and those that act continuously. Just aerosols belong to the first category, and fresheners in the form of gels and deodorants to the second.

However, both are made using chemicals that release allergens and toxins that pollute the air. Perhaps they create a feeling of cleanliness, but the air does not become cleaner from this.

Here are some proven natural and safe remedies that will create a feeling of freshness without harming your health.

Aloe

The aloe plant is used not only for decorative and medicinal properties, but also as an air freshener.

This plant is able to filter out toxins from the air around it, thus making it cleaner.

Geranium

Houseplants such as geranium, gardenia, jasmine, and some other flowers are known for their bright scents, but they can also purify the air.

They are known to absorb toxins. If geranium or jasmine grows in your house, be sure that the air in the room will not only be fresh, but also clean.

Cinnamon and anise

The sweet and savory smells that fill our home when we cook with spices can also be refreshing.

You can simply boil cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves and cardamom in water - the vapors will give the room a fresh aroma.

Cinnamon and dried orange

The aroma of tart freshness combined with cinnamon creates an unsurpassed incense. You can take dry orange slices and place them in a jar filled with warm water.

Put the cinnamon sticks in there too. You will get the aroma of unsurpassed freshness.

citrus zest

Lemon, orange, lime, grapefruit and other citrus peels contain essential oils that give off a pleasant aroma.

The next time you peel a grapefruit or orange, don't throw away the skin. Dry it and store it in a dry place as an air freshener you can make at any time.

Victorian fragrance

Such decorations have been used since ancient times as natural air fresheners. Why don't you use it in your apartment.

Oranges studded with cloves can be used as room decoration. You can simply put them in a vase and put them on the table.

Fresh flowers

A bouquet of fragrant fresh flowers placed in a vase or jar of water is not only beautiful, but is known to fill a room with its sweet scent.

Flowers exude their fragrance throughout the day, so the air stays fresh for a long time.

dried flowers

A bouquet of dried flowers, pine cones or fragrant branches will fill the air with a fragrant smell for a long time.

Dried flowers can be crushed and arranged in canvas bags, and then hung in a warm place. This will enhance the flavor even more.

dried herbs

Rosemary, thyme, bay leaf, oregano and other aromatic herbs can be effectively used in dried form. They are not only excellent fresheners, but also exterminate foreign odors well.

Dried herbs can be hung or placed in a place convenient for you, and they will perfectly clean the air for months.

herbal wreaths

A dried wreath woven from fragrant herbs can be both a natural freshener and an excellent decorative element. They will create a special atmosphere and aroma in the room.

If wreaths are not your thing, just pour a pinch of chopped herbs into boiling water and let the water boil a little.

Oil burner

Burners or fondue pots can be used to diffuse the aroma of essential oils into the surrounding atmosphere.

All you need is a small candle flame and a container of essential oil.

Aroma candles

Scented candles can serve as a continuous air freshener. Light candles in the places of the house where it is needed and the persistent aroma will do its job.

Incense

Burning sticks, incense, incense, or even pieces of myrrh are known for their pleasant scents. Use these products as a freshener in your home.

Aromatic salts

Fragrant bath salts can be used as an air freshener. Pour salt into a bowl, place candles nearby and the exquisite aroma will refresh your home like any other fragrance.

Aroma sticks

Sandalwood or rosewood sticks can emit pleasant odors when smoldering. You can also use incense sticks. They will fill your room with delicious aromas.

Essential oil dispensers

Oil dispensers distribute aromatic oils using wicks or special sticks. All you have to do is put them in a container of oil and enjoy the pleasant smells.

This material is subjective, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a guide to the purchase. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

Dealing with bad odors in your home is a tricky business. You can do wet cleaning several times a day using special tools. But the effectiveness of this method is questionable: after a short time, the smells return again. Air fresheners come to the rescue, which instantly fill the room with a light pleasant aroma of flowers, citrus fruits or herbs. Some products not only neutralize unpleasant odors, but also destroy bacteria and prevent their spread again.

Air fresheners come in several types.

Aerosol balloon- the most common type. This is an affordable tool that can be found in every home. It quickly sprays the liquid, neutralizing the smell. Its disadvantage may be the appearance of an allergic reaction when it enters the respiratory tract.

Gel fresheners(aromacrystals) neutralize odors and are used as laundry sachets. They are absolutely safe for humans, have a light unobtrusive aroma. The disadvantage is the short duration of action of the remedy and its high price.

Auto. The most convenient type of freshener. Diffusing after a certain period of time, the intensity of which you determine yourself, allows you to maintain pleasant aromas constantly. It is usually wall-mounted and requires rechargeable batteries to operate.

Based on consumer feedback, our experts have compiled a rating of the best fresheners that will help get rid of kitchen, tobacco, pet, mold odors and create a pleasant atmosphere with the help of natural aromas.

Rating of the best air fresheners

The best inexpensive air fresheners: budget up to 500 rubles

Buyers are not always ready to pay large sums for household items. This is why inexpensive air fresheners are so popular. In principle, they cope with their direct task - they remove third-party odors. And this is important, despite the fact that their duration of action is not long enough. We have selected 4 of the best inexpensive but effective air fresheners according to users.

The Polish manufacturer has presented a strict black automatic air freshener, which is suitable for any interior and will not stand out among other furnishings. The rich aroma of freesia will appeal to lovers of oriental sweet smells. The product does not contain carbon dioxide and propane, it moisturizes and aromatizes the air well.

Choice of spray intensity: 9, 18 or 36 min. With a minimum consumption of a spare block, it lasts for 2 months. Requires two AA batteries to operate.

The freshener sprays well, does not form droplets, removes the persistent smell of tobacco, and disinfects the room. It does not require special care, it is easy to install and configure.

Advantages

the presence of a balloon;

economical consumption;

harmless composition;

well neutralizes odors;

universal body color.

Flaws

too intrusive aroma;

only original spare cylinders are used.

The aroma of freshness after the rain will be given by an inexpensive automatic freshener of the AIR WICK brand, popular with our consumers. It is a reliable device that is easy to install, does not require maintenance, and is easy to operate.

Layered fragrance absorbs unpleasant odors. The agent is sprayed without the formation of drops. The manufacturer offers three intensity options: 10, 28 and 32 minutes. At the minimum level, the cylinder is enough for 70 days of use. At the maximum - for 2450 sprays, that is, for 1.5 months of work.

When replacing, it is easily installed in the holder. An indicator light will indicate when this needs to be done. Low noise level during spraying, effective removal of third-party odors, fresh aroma, optimal price allowed us to include this product in our rating.

Advantages

effectively removes odors;

easy to operate;

quiet spray level;

long time use.

Flaws

not suitable for large rooms;

wall mount only.

Glade "Fresh effect. Green apple"

An aerosol type air freshener of a well-known brand in our country will bring an unforgettable effect of freshness and eliminate persistent smells of the toilet, pets, and smoke. The aroma of green apple is the most familiar and favorite among many consumers.

The composition does not contain components harmful to health, it is made from 100% natural atomizing gas, which is very important when used in residential areas with children.

The freshener is ideal for removing odors from fabrics. According to the results of testing, it does not harm colored materials, so it can be used without the risk of damaging clothes. According to consumer reviews, the product perfectly absorbs the smells of the kitchen, tobacco, mold and even sweat in shoes, and a 275 ml bottle lasts for quite a long time.

Advantages

natural composition;

harmless to health;

removes odors from fabric;

comfortable spray.

Flaws

• short duration of action.

Chirton "Light Air", relaxation of the senses

The second aerosol-type product presented in our rating allows you to effectively eliminate unpleasant odors of any origin. It does not cause allergic reactions and headaches, it is approved for use in a house where a small child lives.

The thoughtful shape of the balloon makes it easy to hold in your hand, and the design with a curved silhouette will harmoniously fit into the interior of any room. Convenient valve allows you to gently and easily spray the aerosol.

The composition includes natural oils that leave behind a pleasant floral aroma. Dry spray technology avoids drip marks and smudges by allowing the aerosol to dry quickly in the air.

Advantages

pleasant floral aroma;

stylish balloon design;

dry spray;

does not leave stains;

permanent odor removal;

natural essential oils in the composition;

convenient spray valve.

Flaws

• not very strong scent.

The best automatic air fresheners in terms of price-quality ratio

Manufacturers of household products release automatic fresheners with improved characteristics: more convenient and stylish design, multiple spray modes, convenient use and simple operation. But many of these models go beyond the middle price segment, as a result, the demand for such a product is reduced. We have selected the 3 best air fresheners in terms of the ratio of the best price and impeccable quality.

For large areas of public bathrooms, sports and medical facilities, the Connex automatic air freshener is ideal. The case is made of impact-resistant plastic, which significantly increases the service life with high traffic of people.

Stylish simple design will allow you to install the air freshener in rooms with any interior. Before use, the operating mode is configured: period and interval (range from 5 minutes to 4 hours), days of the week, start and end, one-, two-, three-time spraying. The set parameters are displayed on the LCD display.

The freshener is several times more concentrated compared to household products, so the persistent aroma lasts for a long time. Requires 2 R20 batteries to operate.

Advantages

for large rooms;

effective odor removal;

persistent aroma;

convenient setting;

easy installation;

the duration of the balloon.

Flaws

• not detected.

Small in size, in white color and stylish design, the freshener can be installed in any place, from a public toilet to a restaurant hall, and everywhere it will successfully fit into the interior.

The intensity of the spray depends on the choice of the user: around the clock (periodicity from 5 to 20 minutes), night (works in the absence of light) or day (only with light). In this model, it is allowed to install cylinders of different volumes: 260, 300, 320 ml. Requires 2 AA batteries for power.

Advantages

housing made of durable material;

for various areas;

nice design;

installation of cylinders of different volumes;

permanent odor removal.

Flaws

• not detected.

Small and light, this air freshener made our list for a reason. It is ideal for installation at home in the toilet room or living room. Economic consumption makes this model one of the best in terms of price and quality. The air freshener effectively copes with any persistent odors, gives aroma and freshness for the whole day.

One cylinder is enough for 6000 sprays, which is from 3 to 6 months of operation, depending on the setting mode. If replacement is required, the indicator light will turn red. The intensity is user selectable: 5,10, 15 or 30 minutes, and modes: 24/7, day or night.

To reset the settings, the device is switched off and on again. Requires two AA batteries to operate.

Advantages

effectively removes odors;

long period of use;

convenient setting;

multiple spray modes.

Flaws

installation at least 2 m from the floor;

Difficulty replacing the balloon

How to choose the right air freshener

Picking up an air freshener sometimes seems like a simple matter - choose the smell you like and buy it. But not everything is so simple. There are some tips from experts to help you with this.

First, we decide: for a home, office or industrial premises, we choose an air freshener. It depends on which type is best suited. For home use, sometimes an aerosol can is enough. For public toilets, restaurants and other places with high traffic, professional automatic devices are better suited.

When choosing smells for the toilet, it is better to focus on citrus or coniferous. For the kitchen, air fresheners with “delicious” aromas of vanilla, chocolate are suitable. In the living room, the natural smells of a pine forest, sea breeze, flower meadow are appropriate.

Price is also an important parameter. Very cheap aerosols can eliminate the smell for a short time, but more expensive well-known manufacturers not only neutralize, but also disinfect the air, eliminating harmful microbes.

If there is a child in the room or someone from the household has allergic diseases, then you need to familiarize yourself with the composition and choose a product that does not contain carbon dioxide, propane and other harmful products.

If it is necessary to remove stubborn odors from the upholstery of furniture, carpets, curtains, clothes, aerosols are used, which are recommended for use on fabrics. They are tested by experts and guarantee the safety of materials.

For maximum convenience, many customers choose automatic air fresheners. To choose the best and not overpay, first read their characteristics. Many are designed for large rooms, and in small apartments there is no need to install them. There are models for home use that can work up to 6 months without changing the cylinder and batteries.

Third-party odors are present in every living space. Sometimes, they are not visible to the residents themselves, but are well felt by the guests. The smell of tobacco is especially acute. If a smoking person lives in the house, then getting rid of an unpleasant “loop” is very difficult. Also, unpleasant smells coming from the toilet, exhaust gases from the street, kitchen aromas significantly worsen the atmosphere in the house. Today, air fresheners help to combat this phenomenon.

How to choose an air freshener for your home

There are several types of air fresheners, thanks to which a pleasant aroma is maintained in the room and even optimal humidity in the living room.

Air humidifier with air freshener function

The traditional air freshener humidifier works on the principle of natural evaporation. Water poured into a special tank of the humidifier is a kind of filter. The water molecules coming from the humidifier bind dust and dirt particles. Contaminated water, passing through the evaporator, leaves the collected "garbage". A container of aromatic oil fills the house with a pleasant aroma that can be selected according to personal desires. Humidifier - The purifier produces no more than 60% humidity. Such devices are capable of producing from 4 to 16 liters of steam in 24 hours, have a capacity of up to 5 liters of water, which is enough for 10 hours of continuous operation. Depending on the type of humidifier, the power consumption is 32-50 W, depending on the performance.

When choosing a humidifier-freshener, you should pay attention to what area it is designed for. Too low-powered device can not cope with its purpose. A large humidifier will consume a lot of electricity unnecessarily. For a room of no more than 20 m2, a device with a capacity of up to 5 liters of water and a capacity of up to 8 liters of steam per day is perfect.

Humidifiers-air fresheners are:

• traditional, working on the principle of an electric kettle;
• ultrasonic, in which a special membrane is installed that vibrates at a high frequency.

Important! In a residential area, it is worth using a low-noise device that emits no more than 40 dB. Such a freshener will not interfere with a night's sleep.

To understand which air freshener is best for your home, you need to clearly outline its objectives. Modern humidifiers with the effect of aromatherapy are able to humidify the air in the room up to an acceptable 60%, purify the air from microorganisms, dust and bacteria, and fill the room with a pleasant aroma. A variety of natural oils are used in such devices.

Wall mounted air fresheners

Such air fresheners consist of an aromablock. They are very convenient, as they do not require space for placement: the air freshener is simply mounted on the wall in the room. Their advantages are:

• long period of operation: one block is enough for a couple of months with regular use;
• easy to use: lightly pressing the device provides a pleasant smell for more than 8 hours;
• have an aesthetic appearance, are produced in different color variations;
• maintenance-free: after use, the block is replaced with a new one.

Such mechanisms are not without drawbacks: they do not eliminate the unpleasant odor, but only mask it.

Aerosol refreshers

These air fresheners are very popular, but unfortunately also the most harmful to the environment. With their help, you can eliminate the third-party cutting smell in the room with one click. The fragrance does not last more than 2 hours. Aerosol-based air fresheners come in a wide variety of scents. Pine needles and lemon are popular.

Toilet blocks

Blocks for the toilet room are available in two types:

• hanging, which are attached to the rim of the toilet;
• in the form of sticks that are glued inside the toilet bowl.

These air fresheners can eliminate unpleasant odors, refreshing the toilet room.

Important! When using blocks for the toilet, it is strictly forbidden to take them with your hands. It is necessary to work with such fresheners in rubber gloves.

aromacrystals

Outwardly, they resemble a small picture: an aromatic gel cartridge is placed in a frame in the form of a crystal. After the gel has completely dried, it should be replaced with a new one. Such a device eliminates unpleasant odors for 1 month. It should be especially carefully placed on light-colored panels, as the air freshener can leave stubborn stains.

Important! Aromacrystal-based air freshener should only be used in rooms with installed ventilation.

Electronic fresheners

Such devices can be used both in residential and office premises. They are:

• oil;
• gel;
• aerosol.

Modern gadgets have a spray interval setting and a cartridge replacement indicator. They can work no more than 15 hours without a break.

Important! The best air fresheners for the home are devices that do not mask the smell, but eliminate it. For example, OUST air purifier 3in1 "Morning dew", Armed "Ecosphere" and others.

Rating of home fresheners

1. The most popular are aerosol home fresheners. When choosing, preference should be given to those means that first neutralize odors, and then aromatize the air.
2. No less in demand are electrical appliances. Autonomy in use ensures their simple application: there is no need to monitor the air freshening personally.
3. But the best air freshener is an aromatherapy humidifier. Although appliances are more expensive and require regular maintenance, they are increasingly preferred. Modern devices are multifunctional and easy to use. They not only eliminate unpleasant odors, but are “air washers”, which is extremely important in a city apartment.

Are air fresheners harmful?

Traditional aerosol air fresheners are not safe for the environment and humans. The most dangerous are substances that have volatile chemical compounds. They enter the human respiratory system. Sodium benzoate and sodium nitrite are especially unsafe. If the air freshener contains these components, then the spray should be discarded. That is why before you buy an aerosol freshener, you should study the composition in detail.

The main focus when choosing a freshener is its harmlessness.

Gel air fresheners are safer. The danger of such fresheners lies in causing allergic reactions. In a house where an allergic person lives, the use of gel air fresheners is highly undesirable.

The safest are humidifiers with a freshener function, which use natural aromatic oils that have a beneficial effect on humans.

Important! Aerosol air fresheners are designed for the toilet. It is strictly forbidden to use them in the bedroom or nursery. For such rooms, it is worth buying an aroma humidifier, for example, AIC ST2850. This device with a power of 23 W is able to serve a room up to 25 m2.

Modern air fresheners can be completely safe and still perform different functions. They have different shapes, colors, dimensions and can be a great addition to the room.