10 Toxic Household Scented Products · Fit 'n Healthy Forever

10 Toxic Household Scented Products

Scented products are everywhere in the modern home, and many of them contain toxic fragrance chemicals, including phthalates, VOCs (volatile organic compounds), formaldehyde, and even synthetic musk compounds.

These are linked to hormone disruption, respiratory issues, headaches, skin irritation, and long-term toxicity (especially in children and pets).

1. Plug-In Air Fresheners

Constantly emit synthetic fragrances and VOCs into the air.
Often contain phthalates, which are linked to hormone disruption.
Brands to be wary of: Glade PlugIns, Air Wick, Febreze plug-ins.

2. Aerosol Spray Air Fresheners

Used in bathrooms, living rooms, kitchens.
Contain propellants, solvents, and synthetic fragrance blends.
Can trigger asthma, migraines, and skin allergies.

3. Car Air Fresheners

Those popular tree-shaped or vent clip fresheners are loaded with fragrance oils and VOCs.
Small, enclosed spaces like cars make exposure worse.

4. Fabric or Upholstery Sprays

Marketed to “eliminate” odors (like Febreze), but actually mask them with chemicals.
Ingredients often undisclosed; may include formaldehyde releasers and synthetic musks.

5. Laundry Scent Boosters

Includes scent beads (like Downy Unstopables), dryer sheets, and scented detergents.
Can coat clothing in fragrance chemicals that rub off onto your skin all day.
Major source of indoor & outdoor air pollution from dryer vents.

6. Scented Candles

Often made from paraffin wax (petroleum-based) and scented with synthetic fragrance oils.
Can emit formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene when burned — especially in enclosed rooms.

7. Scented Toilet Paper & Tissues

Chemicals added for “fresh” smell near sensitive areas — can cause irritation or hormonal effects over time.

8. Personal Care Products

Shampoos, lotions, deodorants, body washes, perfumes, etc.
“Fragrance” on a label can legally hide hundreds of undisclosed chemicals.

9. Pet Fresheners

Sprays or powders used on pet beds, collars, or directly on fur.
Animals are more sensitive — and can’t detox as efficiently.

10. Scented Garbage Bags & Cleaning Wipes

Often loaded with strong synthetic fragrances that can off-gas even when not in use.

If it smells like a “spring breeze,” or “mountain rain,” it’s probably toxic.

Just because it sounds natural - like "lavender" or "Citrus scent" doesn't mean it''s natural.

Unless the product is specifically labeled fragrance-free or scented with REAL essential oils only (no isolates or synthetics), assume it contains potentially harmful compounds.

Safer Alternatives