After analyzing data from 581 adults (mostly women) taking part in a long-running Swiss study on air pollution, researchers made an alarming discovery: Women who reported the most frequent use of spray air fresheners were the most likely to have hearts that don’t respond or adjust as quickly to different demands, like stress.
While they’re not exactly sure why this is, researchers speculate that it could be due to common ingredients in air freshening sprays—terpenes—that react with a common indoor air pollutant (aldehydes) to form another, toxic pollutant. Bottom line? If you want a clean-smelling home, ditch the air freshener sprays—and the synthetic scented candles while you’re at it. Crack a window, and try one of these alternative air scrubbers instead:
Vodka. Ethyl alcohol, found in vodka and other spirits, is a main odor-neutralizing ingredient in most commercial air fresheners. It doesn’t smell when it dries, so you can spray it as is, or add your favorite essential oils.
Cat litter. Your kitty’s litter (unused, of course) can be a great odor-eater. Look for a brand that contains diatomaceous earth, a naturally occurring mineral that—among its many wonders—absorbs smells.
Coffee grinds. Weird but true, coffee grinds (even the leftovers from your morning pot) work wonders at absorbing odors. Put dry grinds in a sock, and hang them in your closet or pantry to remove bad smells.
A good scrub-down. The best way to deal with odors is, unsurprisingly, to eliminate their source. Empty your garbage regularly and give your trashcan a weekly rinse with white vinegar, another potent odor destroyer. Cope with pet odors by sprinkling a box of baking soda over carpets and upholstery, let it sit for 30 minutes, then vacuum up.
Also see: Allergy Proof Your Home, How You Can Become More Earth-Friendly, 5 Ways To Sharpen Your Senses
