Sustainable Holiday Air Fresheners
by Kris Francefort
*As published in Natural Awakenings Magazine, November 2023
Create Your Healthy Holiday Home (4-part series)
Eco-Topic #2 = Indoor Air Fresheners and Fragrances
Chemicals found in indoor air fresheners, plug-ins and fragrances are a significant health risk in homes and to the environment.
Phthalates, formaldehyde, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by these products can lead to a range of health problems.
Common symptoms are respiratory issues, including asthma, coughing, shortness of breath, allergies, and skin irritations.
Prolonged exposure to indoor air pollutants can negatively impact the central nervous system, cognitive functions, and mental facility.
DIY, easy, and cost-effective options
- Open windows ventilation
- One of the simplest and most immediate ways to improve indoor air quality is by allowing fresh air to circulate through open windows.
- Opening windows for a few minutes each day promotes cross-ventilation, flushing out indoor pollutants.
- Remove stagnant air and odors and bring in natural outdoor scents, refreshing your home.
- Citrus Peel Air Freshener
- Save citrus peels from oranges, lemons, and grapefruits.
- Place dried citrus peels in bowls or tie them in sachets.
- The natural oils in the peels will release a fresh, citrusy aroma, providing a pleasant and cost-free indoor fragrance.
- Baking Soda Odor Absorber
- Place an open box of baking soda in areas prone to odors, like the fridge or near the trash can.
- Baking soda naturally absorbs and neutralizes odors.
- Replace the box every month for continual freshness.
- Holiday Simmer Pot
- Fill a pot with water and add citrus slices, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
- Bring the pot to a gentle simmer on your stovetop. Add water as it evaporates. (Caution – be sure to keep an eye on the pot and turn off the stove if leaving the kitchen area.)
- You can also use a crockpot for all-day scent.
- The heat will release nature’s aromas into the air, filling your home with a delightful festive fragrance.
- Herbal Air Freshener
- Harvest herbs from your garden or use dried herbs from your kitchen, like lavender, mint, or rosemary.
- Tie a bunch of herbs together and hang them upside down in well-ventilated areas.
- Place the herbs in small cloth bags and put them in drawers or closets.
- Herbs add a pleasant scent and have natural antimicrobial properties.
‘Tis the season to add extra sparkle, ambience, and flavors to your home in preparation for holiday festivities!
Swap pervasive harmful products with eco-friendly alternatives to promote the health and well-being of family and friends during this season of celebration.
There are two main ways to replace hazardous products and minimize dangerous chemicals in your home:
- Purchase eco-friendly alternatives from sustainable-conscious businesses.
- Upcycle and DIY: Add heart to the holidays with homemade offerings while saving time and money by making your own home products.
Stay tuned for more Common-Sense Crunchy ideas to help you create an eco-friendly holiday home. The Common-Sense Crunchy approach balances practicality, holistic wellness, and sustainability.
Click here for these Healthy Holiday Home Eco-Topics:
Full article on pages 16-17 in Natural Awakenings online magazine – click here
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