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11 Best Non Toxic Air Fresheners for a Safe and Healthy Home
Isn't it ironic that most air fresheners contain toxic ingredients that can harm our health and the environment? If we want to truly freshen up our surroundings, non toxic air fresheners are the way to go.
Smelling something unpleasant in our homes, cars, or shoes can be really irritating. We all want to breathe fresh air while reading our favorite books on the couch or cooking dinner in the kitchen.
That's why many people turn to conventional air fresheners to cover up foul smells. However, these "air fresheners" can do more harm than good. They often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can cause health problems like migraines, headaches, asthma attacks, and respiratory issues.
To promote clean living and ensure our air fresheners serve their purpose, switching to non-toxic natural air fresheners is the best choice!
Using essential oil-based sprays not only freshens the air but also provides therapeutic benefits. For instance, a lavender spray helps me relax before bedtime, while a citrus mint blend invigorates my mornings. These small changes have made a big difference in creating a healthier living environment for our families.
In this article, we'll explore why conventional air fresheners can be dangerous and why it's important to switch to non-toxic alternatives.
What is a Non Toxic Air Freshener?
A non-toxic air freshener, also known as a chemical-free air freshener, improves indoor air quality without harsh chemicals.
Unlike traditional air fresheners that may contain toxic chemicals like phthalates, benzene, formaldehyde, and other VOCs (volatile organic compounds), nontoxic versions use natural ingredients like natural essential oils and plant extracts. These options are safer for your health and the environment, lowering the risk of allergies, respiratory issues, hormonal disruption, neurological effects and even more serious health concerns.
For instance, a non-toxic air freshener might use a mix of lavender and eucalyptus oils for a refreshing scent without synthetic additives.
Home is our safe haven from the outside pollution, so it's important to choose our air fresheners carefully. We want something that truly freshens the air without adding toxic chemicals.
That is why we carefully test each product to ensure its effectiveness in freshening the air and verify that its ingredients are truly non-toxic. We also check if their brand certifications and manufacturing processes meet our high standards.
The Best Non Toxic Air Freshener Brands
"Best"
Enviroscent | Shop here*
Grow Fragrance (Linen) | Shop here*
Grow Fragrance (Car Freshener) | Shop here*
Scent Fill | Shop here*
Fresh Wave | Shop here*
Attitude | Shop here*
Fate Naturals | Shop here*
Moso Natural | Shop here*
Muse Apothecary | Shop here*
"Better"
Poofy Organics | Shop here*
Air Essentials | Shop here*
How Do We Choose the Best Non Toxic Air Fresheners?
"Best" vs "Better"
We've categorized the products into two lists— "Best" and "Better"—based on their ingredients and overall safety.
Our top picks for nontoxic air fresheners are labeled "Best." They use the safest and most effective natural ingredients, such as essential oils and plant extracts, which minimize exposure to harmful chemicals. These products are free from phthalates, parabens, formaldehyde, benzene, and other toxic substances.
"Better" products are solid non-toxic options but may contain ingredients that aren't ideal for highly sensitive individuals or babies. While they still avoid major harmful chemicals, they may include components that are less desirable but still significantly safer than conventional air fresheners. They're still a good choice, just not the safest.
What Are the "Best" Non Toxic Air Fresheners?
Grow Fragrance Air + Fabric
Spray*
Top Pick Overall
Pricing: $15
Certifications: Leaping Bunny, USDA
Key Non Toxic Ingredients: Sandalwood oil, Bergamot oil, Vanilla
Why We Like It: This is by far our favorite air freshener - We keep one in every room of the house. The sophistication of the Blondewood scent, derived from natural, chemical-free ingredients, lifts our mood without being overpowering. The non-toxic ingredients, like vanilla planifolia and lemon petitgrain, ensure a safe environment, especially for those with allergies. Grow Fragrance’s exceptional customer service, Leaping Bunny and USDA certifications, and commitment to ethical practices make this product a top pick.
Image @ Grow Fragrance
Grow Fragrance Car Freshener*
Best for Car
Pricing: $44
Certifications: Leaping Bunny, USDA
Key Non Toxic Ingredients: Neroli oil, Sweet Almond oil, Cedarwood oil
Why We Like It: This car freshener stands out for its impressive longevity and perfectly balanced scent that’s never overpowering. Made with nontoxic ingredients like essential oils, it’s safe even for those with fragrance sensitivities. Grow Fragrance ensures complete ingredient transparency and offers a 100% money-back guarantee, making them a brand we can trust.
Image @ Grow Fragrance
Enviroscent Essential Oil Diffuser*
Best for Bathrooms
Pricing: $14.99
Certifications: Leaping Bunny, FSC
Key Non Toxic Ingredients: Clove leaf oil, FSC Certified Wood Pulp
Why We Like It: This diffuser is perfect for bathrooms with its sleek design that blends beautifully with any decor. The stix offer customizable scent strength and are long-lasting, making them a practical and stylish choice. Enviroscent’s liquid-free, mess-free formula and eco-friendly refills add to its appeal. Their Leaping Bunny certification and SmartLabel® transparency provide additional peace of mind, ensuring you know exactly what’s in your air freshener.
Image @ Enviroscent
Scent Fill Plug-In Air Freshener*
Best Plug-in Air Fresheners
Pricing: $19.95
Certifications: Leaping Bunny
Key Non Toxic Ingredients: Natural eucalyptus oil, Cedar leaf oil, Rosemary
Why We Like It: Unlike other systems that have let us down, Scent Fill consistently delivers with impressive longevity and effectiveness. Scent Fill’s commitment to quality is backed by their Leaping Bunny certification and excellent customer service. Plus, their Scent Finder tool makes it easy to discover your perfect fragrance, but we highly recommend the Lavender or the Eucalyptus scent!
Image @ Scent Fill
Fresh Wave Odor Absorbing Gel Refill*
Best for Kitchens
Pricing: $67.49 (Pack of 2)
Certifications: EPA, Safer Choice
Key Non Toxic Ingredients: Lime Oil, Pine Needle Oil, Anise Oil
Why We Like It: This odor-absorbing gel is perfect for kitchens, tackling even the impossible fish fry or steamed broccoli. Fresh Wave’s products are EPA Safer Choice certified and their innovative odor-fighting formula have been proven to work in even the most challenging of environments like landfills and wastewater treatment centers. Its effectiveness and allergy-friendly formula make it a standout choice.
Image @ Fresh Wave
Attitude Air Purifier*
Best for Pet Odors
Pricing: $9.49
Certifications: ECOLOGO, Certified by PETA, EWG, FSC
Key Non Toxic Ingredients: Activated carbon
Why We Like It: This air purifier is excellent for eliminating pet odors, using activated carbon for effective odor control. The natural, non-overpowering lavender scent is reminiscent of fresh garden lavender, making it a pleasant addition to any home. Attitude’s commitment to eco-friendly practices is evident through their vegan, cruelty-free certifications and innovative packaging solutions that reduce plastic waste. ATTITUDE is always a trusted brand in our home.
Image @ Attitude
Fate Naturals Laundry Day Odor Eliminating Candle*
Best Non Toxic Odor-Eliminating Scented Candles
Pricing: $20
Certifications: N/A
Key Non Toxic Ingredients: 100% soy wax, unbleached cotton wicks, eco-scents plant based oils
Why We Like It: This candle is a must-have for anyone seeking a non-toxic odor-eliminating solution. The fresh laundry scent effectively neutralizes strong unwanted odors, making our house smell phenomenal. Fate Naturals impresses with their commitment to ingredient transparency and health, ensuring no phthalates, parabens, or other harmful substances are used. Their extensive "never any" list leaves no toxic ingredient out.
Image @ Fate Naturals
Moso Natural Air Purifying Bag*
Best For Closets & Drawers
Pricing: $38.95
Certifications: FSC
Key Non Toxic Ingredients: Moso bamboo charcoal
Why We Like It: After storing winter coats and boots in a closet all season, we placed these bags inside to eliminate musty smells, and the air was noticeably fresher within 24-48 hours. Moso Natural’s commitment to sustainability is impressive, with a nearly carbon-neutral manufacturing process and cruelty-free practices. Their bamboo charcoal, sourced from China’s Fujian Province, is one of the most effective natural air purifiers available.
Image @ Moso Natural
Muse Apothecary Linen Ritual*
Best For Linen
Pricing: $9.98
Certifications: Leaping Bunny
Key Non Toxic Ingredients: Aloe, Eucalyptus, Lavender
Why We Like It: This linen spray stands out for its delightful amber cashmere scent, which is warm, cozy, and slightly sweet—perfect for a cuddly and comfy bed. The scent lasts until the next wash, making it a long-lasting addition to our linen routine. Muse Apothecary’s commitment to quality is evident with their hand-crafted, hand-poured products made in California. Their Leaping Bunny certification ensures that the product is cruelty-free.
Image @ Muse Apothecary
What Are the "Better" Non Toxic Air Fresheners?
Poofy Organics Aromatherapy Air Freshener Spray*
Best For Aromatherapy
Pricing: $12
Certifications: N/A
Key Non Toxic Ingredients: Organic Aloe Juice, Organic Saponified Coconut Oil, Organic Saponified Shea Butter
Why We Like It: This air freshener spray room spray is perfect for aromatherapy, creating a calming and welcoming atmosphere. It's a great way to start the day, whether at home or on the go. We love that Poofy Organics was founded by two families inspired by their cancer journeys and dedicated to providing clean, organic, and non-toxic products to other families.
Why "Better": Contains "natural flavors" in ingredient list
Image @ Poofy Organics
Air Essentials Odor Eliminating Spray*
Best For Eliminating Odor
Pricing: $24.95 (Pack of 2)
Certifications: N/A
Key Non Toxic Ingredients: Not available
Why We Like It: This spray is excellent for eliminating odors, providing a long-lasting and pleasant eucalyptus mint aroma. It effectively neutralizes recurring odors from smoke, garbage cans, pet areas, and cooking, keeping our living spaces fresh. Made in the USA with plant-derived ingredients and pure essential oils, it’s free from parabens, sulfates, dyes, synthetics, alcohol, and phthalates.
Why "Better": There is no specific ingredient list available although the Air Essentials website claims that this spray contains only plant-derived ingredients and a blend of pure essential oils and is free from parabens, sulfates, dyes, synthetics, alcohol, and phthalates.
Image @ Air Essentials
Why Switch to Non Toxic Air Fresheners?
Using conventional air fresheners exposes us to toxic chemical particles that float in the air. Inhaling these chemicals can harm our lungs, especially with prolonged exposure.
Switching to natural, eco-friendly air fresheners benefits us for several reasons:
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Healthier Air: Reduces exposure to harmful chemicals, promoting better respiratory health.
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Eco-Friendly: Made with biodegradable ingredients, lowering environmental impact.
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Safe for All: Gentle enough for sensitive individuals, children, and pets.
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Natural Scents: Uses essential oils and plant-based fragrances for a more pleasant aroma.
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Fewer Allergens: Minimizes the risk of allergic reactions and irritations compared to synthetic options.
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Versatility: Many natural air fresheners double as chemical-free room sprays, offering multiple uses.
Ingredients to Avoid
Having a good understanding of the toxic ingredients found in air fresheners helps us identify and avoid them when making future purchases.
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Formaldehyde: Causes respiratory issues, skin irritation.
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Benzene: Linked to leukemia, causes dizziness.
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Phthalates: Disrupts hormones, affects reproductive health.
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Toluene: Affects central nervous system, causes headaches. It is commonly used as a synthetic fragrance.
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Xylene: Causes loss of muscle coordination, headaches.
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Styrene: Affects the nervous system, slowed reaction time.
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Parabens: Disrupt hormones, linked to breast cancer.
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Acetaldehyde: Irritates respiratory tract, possible carcinogen.
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Dichlorobenzene: Affects liver/kidneys, potential carcinogen.
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Triclosan: Disrupts hormone function, allergic reactions.
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Methylene chloride: Causes central nervous system and respiratory depression
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Ethylene glycol: Severe toxicity may result in coma, loss of reflexes
Non-Toxic vs Conventional Air-Fresheners
DIY Ways to Freshen the Air in Your Home
For DIY enthusiasts, there are plenty of ways to create your own natural, eco-friendly air fresheners at home.
1. Air Flow
Opening windows and doors allows indoor air to circulate, removing moisture and stale odors, and reducing indoor pollutants. Promoting good air flow also controls humidity levels and helps maintain a comfortable temperature in our home.
2. Simmering Herbs and Spices
Simmering a pot of water with herbs and spices like cinnamon, cloves, and rosemary can naturally scent your home. The essential oils released into the air have antiviral and antibacterial properties, providing additional health benefits.
3. Dried Herb Sachets
Using dried herb sachets in drawers or laundry hampers keeps clothes and linens smelling fresh while repelling moths and insects.
To make dried herb sachets, simply fill small fabric pouches with your choice of dried herbs and tie them securely. You can also add a few drops of essential oil for extra fragrance.
4. Baking Soda Deodorizer
Using baking soda instead of conventional deodorizers avoids harmful chemicals and keeps the air fresh.
To make a baking soda deodorizer, fill a small bowl or jar with baking soda and place it in the desired area, or mix baking soda with a few drops of essential oil for added fragrance.
5. Air & Fabric Freshener
This natural solution freshens the air and fabrics, eliminating odors without harmful chemicals.
To make an air and fabric freshener, combine one cup of water with a tablespoon of baking soda in a spray bottle. Add 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil, then roll the bottle before spraying to ensure it's mixed well.
Key Takeaways:
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Non-toxic, natural air fresheners reduce exposure to harmful chemicals found in conventional air fresheners like VOCs, which can cause migraines, asthma attacks, and respiratory issues.
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When selecting non-toxic air fresheners, consider factors like effectiveness, ingredient safety, air freshener manufacturers certifications, and suitability for sensitive individuals and pets.
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Look for certifications such as Leaping Bunny, USDA, and FSC to ensure the product meets high standards for safety and eco-friendliness.
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Whether you opt for store-bought options or DIY recipes, non-toxic air fresheners offer a safe and effective alternative to conventional products.
If you enjoyed this post, check out these other articles on safe and non toxic products:
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The 11 Best Non-Toxic Cleaning Products for the Safest Sparkle
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11 Non Toxic Laundry Detergent Brands for Clean Clothes and Clean Living
FAQs
Are there any air fresheners that aren't toxic?
Yes, non-toxic air fresheners use natural ingredients like essential oils and plant-based fragrances. Some examples include brands like Grow Fragrance, ATTITUDE, and Fresh Wave.
You can also create your own air fresheners by mixing essential oils with water in a spray bottle or simmering herbs and spices like cinnamon and cloves on the stove. We can also use non toxic candles to fill the house with a calming scent.
What is the healthiest type of air freshener?
The healthiest type of air freshener is made with 100% pure essential oils and natural, non-toxic ingredients, free from harmful chemicals, dyes, and synthetic fragrances.
Is Febreze non-toxic?
No, Febreze is not non-toxic. It contains synthetic chemicals that can cause respiratory issues, skin irritation, and worsen allergies and asthma.
How can I naturally freshen the air in my house?
Essential oil diffusers and the other non toxic air fresheners listed in this post will spread natural scents throughout your home without harmful chemicals. Other methods include opening the windows, or simmering a pot of water with herbs and spices like cinnamon, cloves, and rosemary. Additionally, placing bowls of baking soda around your house can absorb odors. You can also make dried herb sachets with lavender or mint to place in drawers and closets.
Which car air freshener is best?
Grow Fragrance Car Freshener* stands out for its impressive longevity and perfectly balanced scent that’s never overpowering. Made with non-toxic ingredients like essential oils, it’s safe even for those with fragrance sensitivities. Grow Fragrance ensures complete ingredient transparency, making them a brand we can trust.
What's the difference between natural air fresheners and conventional ones?
Natural air fresheners use plant-based ingredients and essential oils, while conventional ones often contain synthetic fragrances and chemicals. Eco-friendly air fresheners are typically biodegradable and have less environmental impact.
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Lauren Eaton
