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Precautions of Air Freshener
Precautions of Air Freshener
Always follow the instructions on the label and never spray aerosol air fresheners towards the body or
face.
Keep solid air fresheners out of reach of pets or children, as they can be deadly if ingested.
Use up the air freshener in its entirety before disposing. Recycle the empty vessel. If you have not used
all of the air freshener, bring it to your local community collection center. To find an Oregon location
near you, visit http://www.deq.state.or.us/lq/sw/hhw/collection.htm
Health Hazards:
Ethyl/isopropyl alcohol can be extremely dangerous if absorbed through the skin, inhaled, or ingested.
Symptoms include naesea, vommiting, depression, headache, dizziness, anesthesia and possible coma.
Formaldehyde, if inhaled, can cause difficulty breathing, trigger an asthma attack, cause throat irritation
and induce headache. It is also an irritant to mucous membranes.
Some propellants, such as butane, can cause drowsiness, narcosis, asphyxia, and cardiac arythmia
Alternatives:
The most helpful tip in staying away from the use of air fresheners is preventing bad smells. Keep your
home clean (particularly the kitchen) and ventilate your house by opening your windows and doors
when possible.
Use trash cans with lids to prevent smells eminating from the trash can.
To keep your carpet smelling fresh, sprinkle baking soda in the fibers and vacuum regularly.
Some alternatives to air fresheners include organic essential oils which are harmless to your health and
your home’s indoor air quality. They can be placed in a reusable vessel to minimize waste as well.
Potpourri, sage, and other such plant based alternatives work wonders as well.
Alternatives: Keep your home clean and well ventilated. If you must spray, make sure you are using
natural essential oils and pump, rather than aerosol, sprays. Potpourri is an alternative way to scent
your home.