Why There's Simply No Need For Plug-In Air Fresheners Anymore

When your home is smelling funky, you've probably tried a plug-in air freshener to make it feel fresh. Once plugged in, these compact air fresheners either heat up (which activates their scent gels and releases fragrance) or regularly release automated aerosol sprays throughout the day. But you don't need to rely on plug-in air fresheners anymore. There are better-for-you options that won't emit toxic chemicals. Specifically, essential oil diffusers are effective, highly fragrant, and customizable; all without the potentially harmful effects of chemicals. 

According to a study in "Environmental Impact Assessment Review," plug-in air fresheners release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including ones classified as carcinogens and pollutants. They have also been linked to various neurological, respiratory, and dermatological issues like dizziness, nausea, and nose irritation. While it's not entirely clear how these fragrance VOCs impact one's health long-term, they can certainly have a short-term impact. In addition to VOCs, plug-in air fresheners also release phthalates, a semi-volatile organic compound (SVOC) which have been linked to an increased risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes, fertility and development issues, and (for certain phthalates) higher risk for some cancers. In contrast, essential oil diffusers typically use 100% pure, natural oils to create fragrance; allowing you to avoid additives and chemicals.

Using a diffuser brings inviting, relaxing scents into any space, and you can customize the fragrance by choosing your own essential oils to use throughout your home. That alone makes them more customizable than your average plug-in air freshener. You'll find these scent-spreading home accessories come in two forms: reed diffusers and electric diffusers. Reed diffusers (which you can DIY) use a series of porous wooden reeds or sticks placed inside a bottle of essential oils. The reeds absorb the oil and release its scent as it evaporates. Electric essential oil diffusers, on the other hand, are more complicated devices that bring fragrance into the air via gentle vibrations delivered via a nebulizer, fan, evaporation, or heat; depending on the model you choose.

No matter which type of essential oil diffuser you choose, they are easy to operate. In fact, reed diffusers don't even need to be plugged in. You may also find that diffusing essential oils comes with unexpected perks, as inhaling certain fragrances like lavender can change your mood for the better. Plus, the risk of VOCs from essential oils is extremely low, and the levels decrease quickly after being released. Just make sure to choose essential oils that don't feature "extra" ingredients. The benefit of these fragrance-makers is they are meant to contain no synthetics.