Blog

Everyday I’m reading and learning about new ways, products and recipes to stay healthy using non-toxic and non-chemical practices! In addition there are many I’m utilizing each day and always want to share. There are so many that I’ve decided to create a monthly “Short Takes” post where I can share a collection of cool tips in all areas of our lives. You, my readers are smart people so sometimes I don’t need to write 500 words to get my point across. And because you’re smart, I’ll include links to my sources in case you want to research these themes on your own. In the meantime, enjoy!

Are your air fresheners or candles toxic?

I’ve never been a fan of products like Febreze because they do contain toxic chemicals and I know they don’t present healthy breathing for me, my loved ones, and our sweet pets. Check out for yourself this list of chemicals which are particularly harmful in this air freshener, especially to young children. Even the fragrance is a known neurotoxin. Inhaling these chemicals has been shown to increase asthma risk by 50%! Even infant diarrhea has been linked to exposure to these chemicals.

According to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) study Hidden Hazards of Air Fresheners, 12 of 14 air fresheners they tested contained phthalates, which extend the life of these products. Phthalates (pronounced thal-ates) are chemicals found in many cleaning and skin care products have been linked to cancer and reproductive problems. Phthalates have also been linked to an increase in diabetes and obesity in children. Once you inhale them and they get into your bloodstream you may experience depression, reproductive disorders, asthma and digestive disorders. Long term exposure, especially with the plug in air fresheners has been linked to cancer.

A List of Air Fresheners Containing Phthalates to Avoid

• Air Wick Scented Oil
• Citrus Magic
• Febreze NOTICEables Scented Oil
• Glade Air Infusions
• Glade PlugIn Scented Oil
• Lysol Brand II Disinfectant
• Oust Air Sanitizer Spray
• Oust Fan Liquid Refills
• Ozium Glycol-ized Air Sanitizer

The Environmental Working Group is a great place to check out which products you’re using are safe: http://www.ewg.org

Candles can also be highly toxic in that most are made of paraffin wax. Would you believe the toxins released from these candles are the same as those in diesel fuel fumes? Scented candles often emit other toxic chemicals in the form of artificial scents and dyes. Soy-based candles are genetically modified and not the first choice for my breathing environment.

 My Top Three Alternatives:

1. Buy an infuser at any Bed, Bath and Beyond or natural products shop and put a few drops of essential oils in them each day. I love orange and lemon! And there are some that provide immune support. Link to essential oils. So much healthier! Lavender is a natural anti-bacterial, smells good and is calming. Orange essential oil is a mood booster and smells wonderful too!
2. Mix 1 Tbsp. backing soda, 2 cups distilled water and 10 drops of essential oil in a spray bottle and mist away!
3. If you love candles, try a beeswax candle which is healthy and safe for all.

 

And…I’m Over the Moon Excited about This!

One of the things I’m really excited about is that Colorado lifted the ban on Amazon affiliate programs. That means that by becoming an affiliate partner with them I have the opportunity to promote my favorite books and products. Should you feel inclined to purchase through my site, I can make a small percentage (like 4%) from your sale. Any little bit helps support my site and I want to donate a portion of my sales to a family transitional home here in Denver.

Okay, that’s a wrap, as they say in the movie biz. Hope you found one good nugget of info that you can take into your week!

Peace and Good Health!

 

 

Sources:

Clean Eating
Healthy Holistic Living
More.com
National Defenses Resource Council
Sustainable Baby Steps

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