The Fresh Air Illusion

As spring cleaning season approaches, many people turn to air fresheners, candles and scented cleaning products to refresh their homes. But while these products may give the illusion of a cleaner space, they often do more harm than good. Research from Purdue University’s innovative zEDGE Lab has shown that household fragrances and cleaning agents can make indoor air more polluted than the air outside, even in urban environments. The invisible pollutants they release can have serious consequences for respiratory health, cognitive function and overall wellbeing.

Many cultures have long relied on natural methods to maintain clean indoor air. In Japan, opening windows daily, even in colder months, is a common practice to allow for fresh air circulation and prevent humidity buildup that can lead to mold. In Scandinavian countries, the concept of friluftsliv – embracing the outdoors as part of everyday life – extends to the home, where regular ventilation and the use of natural cleaning products like vinegar and plant-based soap are preferred over synthetic cleaners. In India, using camphor has traditionally been used to purify indoor spaces, as this natural substance has antibacterial and antiviral properties. Across Latin America, it’s common to place bowls of salt or activated charcoal around the home to absorb excess moisture and odors naturally. While these practices vary, they share a common thread – prioritizing simple, natural solutions over chemical-based products to maintain healthier indoor air quality.

Public Goods plant-based multi-purpose surface cleaner. Photo courtesy of Public Goods

The Hidden Dangers of Synthetic Scents

Many commercial cleaning products, air fresheners, and scented candles contain synthetic fragrances, which are often composed of a complex mix of chemicals, including phthalates, formaldehyde, and petroleum-derived compounds. These artificial scents are designed to linger in the air and on surfaces, but they also contribute to long-term indoor air pollution and potential health risks, such as hormone disruption and allergic reactions. Some brands market their products as ‘natural’ while still incorporating synthetic fragrance compounds that are far from truly clean.

Even many ‘green’ or ‘eco-friendly’ products contain undisclosed fragrance blends that can release harmful Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), a class of chemicals that easily evaporate into the air. Once released, these VOCs interact with oxidants like ozone, creating secondary pollutants such as nanoparticles. These ultrafine particles, some as small as 1 nanometer in diameter, can penetrate deep into the lungs, enter the bloodstream and affect various organs.

Scented Air Fresheners, Wax Melts and Essential Oil Diffusers

Air fresheners, wax melts and essential oil diffusers are marketed as ways to bring the fresh scent of nature indoors. Yet, these very products, which often contain VOCs, significantly contribute to indoor air pollution. Long-term exposure to these pollutants has been linked to respiratory issues, cardiovascular diseases and even neurological disorders. Studies suggest that inhaling nanoparticles may contribute to inflammation, which can exacerbate conditions like asthma, reduce lung function and increase the risk of heart disease. What makes this especially concerning is that many people use air fresheners daily, unknowingly exposing themselves to harmful airborne chemicals.

The Purdue team found that wax melts, often advertised as ‘nontoxic’ due to not having flames – if an electric burner is being used as opposed to a tea light – are as pollutive as candles when it comes to releasing atmospheric nanoparticles. One alternative is simmering citrus peels and herbs on the stove as a natural way to refresh indoor air. This method involves placing ingredients like lemon or orange peels, rosemary, cinnamon sticks or cloves in a pot of water and letting it gently simmer on a low heat. The steam carries the natural aromas throughout the home, creating a fresh scent without releasing harmful VOCs or nanoparticles.

While essential oils like peppermint, citrus and lemon myrtle offer a natural alternative, they should also be used with caution – highly concentrated oils with chemical additives can cause skin and lung irritation, particularly in enclosed spaces. When purchasing essential oils, there are several things to consider such as quality and safety to ensure their purity and minimize the risk of adverse reactions.

"In Scandinavian countries, the concept of friluftsliv – embracing the outdoors as part of everyday life – extends to the home, where regular ventilation and the use of natural cleaning products like vinegar and plant-based soap are preferred over synthetic cleaners."

Candles

Scented candles, particularly those made from paraffin wax, are another common culprit of indoor air pollution. When burned, paraffin-based candles release VOCs such as toluene and benzene – both of which are classified as hazardous air pollutants. Toluene is known to cause dizziness, headaches and nervous system dysfunction, while benzene is a well-documented carcinogen linked to leukemia and other blood disorders. The soot emitted from candles contains fine particulate matter that can irritate the respiratory system and contribute to indoor air pollution levels comparable to those found in heavily trafficked outdoor environments.

Even soy or beeswax candles, often considered safer alternatives, can contribute to pollution if they contain synthetic fragrances. While these candles burn more cleanly, the artificial scents used in many varieties still release VOCs that interact with indoor air. Without proper ventilation, these compounds accumulate, leading to prolonged exposure and potential health risks. Brands such as Wax Atelier produce natural alternatives to conventional candles.

Cleaning Products

Spring cleaning often involves an arsenal of sprays, disinfectants and multipurpose cleaners – many of which contain chemicals that degrade air quality. Common ingredients like ammonia, chlorine and synthetic fragrances are particularly problematic. Disinfectants, for instance, often contain Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QACs) that are linked to respiratory issues and skin irritation. Some research suggests that regular use of such products may contribute to conditions like asthma, particularly in individuals who already have sensitivities. Likewise, ammonia-based cleaners, while effective for cutting through grime, release fumes that can irritate the lungs and exacerbate breathing difficulties.

Another major concern is the reaction between cleaning products and ozone, a naturally occurring gas that enters homes from outdoor air. When VOCs from scented cleaners react with ozone, they create even more harmful secondary pollutants, compounding the risk of indoor air contamination. For a fresher, healthier home, swap synthetic cleaners for natural solutions that can often be found in the pantry, like white vinegar, baking soda and plant-based soaps.

For those looking for truly non-toxic options, brands like Koala Eco and Poetica offer natural, plant-based formulations without the synthetic additives found in most mainstream products. Dirty Labs offers dishwasher detergent formulated with bioenzymes and Public Goods has created a walnut scrubber sponge free from pesticides such as triclosan. However, even within the natural cleaning space, it’s essential to research ingredients, as many brands that claim to be ‘non-toxic’ still contain synthetics.

Poetica's Lemon Myrtle & Cardamom Mist naturally freshens and fragrances fabrics and rooms. Photo courtesy of Poetica

Koala Eco's plant-based Gift Collection Home, Set of 3. Photo courtesy of Koala Eco

Public Goods plant-based Bathroom Cleaner. Photo courtesy of Public Goods

Dirty Labs nontoxic Bio Enzyme Dishwasher Detergent. Photo courtesy of Dirty Labs

Simple Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality Without Chemicals

• Regular Ventilation: Open windows and doors for 5-10 minutes daily to allow fresh air to circulate and flush out indoor pollutants.
• Choose Fragrance-Free Products: Opt for unscented or fragrance-free cleaning agents and avoid air fresheners to reduce VOC emissions. Many natural alternatives are just as effective at keeping a home clean without compromising air quality.
• Incorporate Houseplants: Certain plants, such as spider plants, peace lilies and snake plants, can help filter indoor air pollutants, contributing to a healthier environment.
• Use Air Purifiers: Investing in an air purifier with a HEPA and carbon filter can help remove VOCs, allergens and fine particulate matter from indoor air.
• Switch to Natural Alternatives: Vinegar, baking soda and castile soap are excellent replacements for conventional cleaning products. They effectively clean surfaces without releasing harmful chemicals into the air.
• Avoid Paraffin Candles: If you enjoy candles, opt for unscented beeswax varieties with natural cotton wicks. Beeswax candles burn more cleanly and may even help remove airborne toxins by releasing negative ions.

The irony of modern home care is that the very products we rely on for cleanliness and comfort may be the ones polluting our space. But fresh air doesn’t come in a can and a truly clean home shouldn’t come at the expense of your health. The good news? Small, simple changes – like opening a window, removing artificial fragrances and embracing natural cleaning alternatives – can make all the difference. You don’t need chemical-laden sprays or scented wax melts to create a fresh environment. Just let the air in and let the toxins out.

Feature Image: Vianca Soleil via Poetica

Photography: Public Goods, Poetica, Koala Eco, Dirty Labs