Candles, Air Fresheners, Fragrance Melts, Perfume
"Air freshener sprays and plug-ins, which are used by 75 percent of American families, usually contain phthalates, a potentially dangerous chemical (which was banned from cosmetics in the UK). The National Resources Defense Council tested 14 air sprays off the shelf in Walgreens, including those labeled “all-natural” and “unscented” and found that 12 of the 14 tested positive for phthalates. A study of scented candles showed that frequently burning paraffin wax candles in poorly ventilated rooms could be dangerous because when burned they give off toluene and benzene, potential carcinogens. Reed diffusers, on the other hand, are often made with dipropylene glycol, an ingredient also used in antifreeze, which is dangerous to cats and dogs, or ethanol, and also pose a danger to small children if they ingest the liquid or get it in their eyes."
What to use instead:
- Bees wax or soy candles that are either unscented or use essential oils
- Essential oil diffuser
- pot of water or small crock pot with 1 tablespoon of whole cloves and 3 cinnamon sticks. Simmer and enjoy the smell of Christmas!
- Here are a couple more recipe that I love to make my home smell great! Fall is in the air and Spring is here.
BRING PLANTS INTO YOUR HOME
ELIMINATE MOLD
CLEANING PRODUCT SWAP OUT
You breathe these toxins in when you use them, and they pollute the air in your home for days.
More info on Week 1 post.
CHANGE YOUR FURNACE FILTER
OPEN WINDOWS AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE
In the winter, that is not so practical. But, it's still good to occasionally crack a window open if it's a milder day, especially in the spring or fall. Don't forget about the basement windows. It's nice to have that air circulate occasionally.