When you first walk into a home, a scented candle or air freshener might make the space feel more inviting, however, many of these products are quietly polluting the air we breathe indoors. The hidden dangers lurking in these seemingly harmless products could be affecting your health in ways you might not even realize. Truly clean air doesn't rely on an artificial scent. Instead clean air is free of particles and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and, most importantly, purified. Instead of adding synthetic fragrances, the safer and more effective solution is to target the pollutants. Let's explore why some of your favorite scents might be doing more harm than good when it comes to the air quality in your home.
The Hidden Dangers Lurking in Scented Products
Candles, plug-ins, diffusers, and air fresheners create a comforting ambiance in a living space. However, many of these products release fumes and toxins into the air, and some of these could have concerning, long-term health effects.
Most scented air fresheners and candles contain a variety of chemicals, some of which are highly toxic and can be harmful to your respiratory health. For example, many of these products contain chemicals such as phthalates, which are hormone-disrupting substances, and formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. Two more highly toxic fumes that are lesser known?Alkanes and alkenes.
Alkanes & Alkenes: What Are They?
You may not have heard of alkanes or alkenes by name before, but these chemicals may be wreaking havoc on your health, released into the air in your home by everyday household items.
Alkanes are a group of hydrocarbons that are a main chemical in a variety of petroleum products, such as paraffin wax, frequently used in candles. They're known to release harmful substances into the air when burned or vaporized. Alkenes, on the other hand, are another class of hydrocarbons that have similar risks and are often used in artificial fragrances.
Often paired together in scented candles, alkanes and alkenes can have serious health consequences, especially when exposed for prolonged periods of time.
"You're burning basically petroleum knowingly and willingly in your own home. These candles release alkanes and alkenes into the air, which are also found in car exhaust," says Peter Spiegel, founder and co-CEO of AirDoctor.
"Then scented candles can make matters worse. They're scented generally with artificial fragrances. And what's in every artificial fragrance? An ingredient called phthalates, another petroleum product that is a known serious hormone disruptor," says Spiegel.
That's right, alkanes and alkenes are also found in fossil fuels and emitted in car exhaust. The same chemicals you'd typically associate with air pollution in cities with dense traffic, may also be found in your home, possibly at even more concentrated levels and trapped there due to limited ventilation.
When alkanes and alkenes are inhaled from indoor air pollution, it can lead to an increased risk of respiratory issues. While this can affect anyone, it is particularly concerning for children and anyone with pre-existing respiratory conditions, as they are more vulnerable to the toxic effects.
Watch indoor air expert Peter Spiegel explain why burning scented candles can be harmful, and what's really happening in your home when you light them.
What to Watch out For In Air Fresheners and Candles
If you've ever used an air freshener and found yourself experiencing lightheadedness or dizziness, it's likely because of the alkanes and alkenes and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These VOCs can cause headaches, nausea, and eye irritation, and with repeated exposure, they could contribute to more serious health issues for you and your family.
Here are some common culprits:
Phthalates – Used to make scents last; disrupt hormones, linked to reproductive issues.
Formaldehyde – Found in fragrance preservatives; irritates eyes/lungs, a known carcinogen.
Acrolein – Released when burning fragrances; causes respiratory irritation.
Toluene – A neurotoxin found in paints, adhesives, and cleaning products which can cause dizziness, nausea, and developmental issues.
Lead – Found in some wick coatings; harms brain development and cognitive function.
Carbon Monoxide – Released when burning fuels like wood, gasoline, or natural gas; even low levels can cause nausea and dizziness.
Acetone – Found in fragrance formulas; causes headaches, dizziness, and throat irritation.
Ethanol – Common in air fresheners; irritates eyes/lungs, especially with frequent use.
Benzene – A known carcinogen, released when burning scented candles.
Which Air Fresheners Are Safe?
What about products specifically labeled "natural" or "organic"? Unfortunately, many are greenwashed or simply marketed as being much safer when they still pose a risk. While they may avoid some of the harsher chemicals like phthalates or formaldehyde, many still contain harmful ingredients that can irritate your airways. These more natural products often contain a mix of natural and synthetic chemicals that are designed to mimic natural smells, but they come with a price.
So, are any safer for your home? The answer is some are much worse than others. Here are a few types of products to avoid if possible.
• Sprays: Aerosol air fresheners are a major source of indoor air pollution. They often contain high levels of VOCs and phthalates and disperse large amounts at once, making them the worst to use.
• Scented Candles: As mentioned earlier, most scented candles are made from paraffin wax, a petroleum-based product that becomes toxic when the candle burns. Look for natural bases like soy wax, beeswax, and coconut wax.
• Plug-ins: These devices emit small amounts of fragrance, which means they're continuously releasing chemicals into your air. Many plug-ins contain alkanes, alkenes, and other toxic chemicals that can build up over time.
• Incense: Burning incense releases particulate matter and VOCs, which can irritate your respiratory system and lead to long-term health problems.
• Essential Oils: Too many commercial oils are diluted with synthetic chemicals, and using diffusers with tap water can cause mold and bacteria growth. Look for labels that say 100% natural and organic. Always avoid synthetic chemicals. Look for organic oils like AromaTru.
How to Improve Your Air Quality
Now that you know the risks associated with synthetic air fresheners and artificially scented products, it's time to focus on how to actually improve your indoor air quality. Fortunately, there are several simple and effective ways to purify your air.
- Invest in an Air Purifier: One of the best ways to improve indoor air quality is by using a high-quality air purifier. A good air purifier will remove harmful particles, allergens, and VOCs from the air, leaving you with cleaner, healthier air. Look for a purifier like AirDoctor to capture small particles like dust, pollen, and pet dander, and an activated carbon filter to remove odors and VOCs.
- Ventilate Your Home: Proper ventilation is key to maintaining good air quality. Open windows whenever possible to let fresh air in, especially after cooking or cleaning. If you live in an area with occasional poor outdoor air quality, consider running the AC that circulates air without bringing in outdoor pollutants.
- Use Natural Cleaners: Opt for natural cleaners made from ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. They're safer for you and the environment, and they won't pollute your indoor air.
- Add Plants to Your Space: Certain plants are known to purify the air by absorbing harmful chemicals and producing oxygen. Some of the best air-purifying plants include spider plants, peace lilies, and snake plants. Not only will they improve air quality, but they'll also add a touch of charming greenery to your home.
- Look for 100% natural and organic candles and essential oils if you want to add a scent to your space.
Final Thoughts: Prioritize Clean Air
When it comes to indoor air quality, it's important to remember that a room that smells good, doesn't mean the air is good for you. Avoid air fresheners and scented products containing chemicals that can actually pollute your indoor air, and opt for natural and organic options. A more effective approach? Focus on keeping your house clean of these added pollutants.
Always purify your air with AirDoctor air purifiers to make it easy. It utilizes an advanced 3-stage filtration system that captures a wide range of airborne contaminants including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), alkenes and alkenes, smoke, pollen, per hair and dander, mold spores, bacteria, viruses, and more. Its UltraHEPA® filter is designed to trap particles 100 times smaller than the standard HEPA.
With AirDoctor, you're not just masking odors—you're creating a cleaner, healthier space where you and your family can breathe easier every day.
P.S. — Looking for pure air that's perfectly scented? Now you can diffuse essential oils with your AirDoctor air purifier! Our sleek new AromaTru Diffuser Clip by AirDoctor easily attaches to all AirDoctor air purifiers for pure air, perfectly scented. Get a free, organic, sustainably sourced AromaTru essential oil with purchase.
