In our quest for a fresher, more inviting home environment, many of us turn to air fresheners and scented candles. However, many commercial products contain harmful chemicals and synthetic fragrances that can negatively impact our health and the environment. Instead, consider making your own all-natural air freshener. Not only are they easy to make, but they’re also safer for you and your family.
Making your own all-natural air freshener is a straightforward and empowering way to create a healthier living environment. Not only can you enjoy delightful and refreshing scents without the worry of harmful chemicals, but you also contribute to a more sustainable world. By avoiding paraffin candles and commercial air fresheners, you take a significant step toward promoting better health for yourself and the planet. Embrace the natural alternatives and enjoy the fresh air!
Why Avoid Paraffin Candles and Commercial Air Fresheners?
1. **Toxic Chemicals**: Many candles are made from paraffin wax, a petroleum byproduct that releases toxic compounds into the air when burned. This can include benzene and toluene, both known carcinogens. These harmful elements can cause respiratory issues, allergies, and a host of other health problems.
2. **Synthetic Fragrances**: Commercial air fresheners often contain synthetic fragrances that can trigger allergic reactions and asthma attacks. These fragrances may consist of numerous undisclosed chemicals, some of which have been linked to health concerns.
3. **Environmental Impact**: Many air fresheners come in plastic containers that contribute to environmental pollution, and the production of paraffin wax itself has a significant carbon footprint. Choosing natural alternatives helps reduce your ecological impact.
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, plays a crucial role in homemade air fresheners. Here are some of the benefits of using baking soda in your all-natural air freshener:
1. **Odor Neutralization**: Baking soda is well-known for its ability to neutralize odors rather than just masking them. It interacts with odor-causing particles in the air, effectively eliminating unpleasant smells. This makes it an excellent ingredient for freshening up spaces like kitchens, bathrooms, and pet-friendly areas.
2. **pH Balancing**: Baking soda can help balance the pH levels in the air, creating an environment that is less hospitable to bacteria and mold, which can contribute to foul odors.
3. **Non-Toxic**: Being a natural compound, baking soda is completely safe to use around children and pets. Unlike many commercial odor eliminators, it does not release harmful chemicals into your home.
4. **Easy to Work With**: Baking soda is readily available and inexpensive, making it a convenient choice for DIY air fresheners. Its ability to incorporate easily into liquids makes it a versatile ingredient for various mixtures.
5. **Enhances Scent Distribution**: By combining with essential oils, baking soda can help carry and disperse fragrances more evenly throughout a room, ensuring that the desirable scent circulates widely.
Homemade Air Freshener
Equipment
- 1 Spray bottle I like glass over plastic but either will work
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp Baking soda
- 20 drops Essential oil
- 2 pack Continuous Spray Bottles
- 2 Pack Glass Spray Bottles with Silicone Sleeve
- 16oz Glass Spray Bottle with Silicone Sleeve Protection –
- Cliganic Organic Essential Oils Set (Top 5) – 100% Pure Natural
- NaturoBliss Organic Lavender Essential Oil, 100% Pure Therapeutic Grade, Premium Quality Lavender Oil, 1 fl. Oz
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the baking soda with the water until the baking soda is completely dissolved.
- Add about 10-20 drops of your chosen essential oils to the mixture. The more drops you add, the stronger the scent will be.
- Pour the mixture into a spray bottle. A funnel can help avoid spills.
- Shake well before each use to ensure the ingredients are mixed. Spray in the air or on fabrics to freshen up your space.
- Citrus Freshener**: Instead of essential oils, you can steep citrus peels (like lemon or orange) in the water. Allow it to cool, strain, and then add the baking soda before transferring to the spray bottle.– **Herbal Infusion**: Simmer fresh herbs (like rosemary or mint) in water for 30 minutes, cool, strain, and mix with baking soda.