Page Contents
Overview
Having a pleasant smelling interior is an important part of car ownership and maintenance for many drivers. However, some air fresheners contain chemicals and ingredients that can be hazardous to health or damage car interiors when used incorrectly. When choosing an air freshener for your vehicle, it’s important to understand which types are safest.
Some key factors to evaluate are:
- Ingredients – Avoid air fresheners with phthalates, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), or formaldehyde
- Form – Gel or canister fresheners are safer than aerosol sprays around upholstery
- Scent type – Essential oil or organic scents are ideal
- Location – Dashboard and vent placement is best to minimize residue
With a little diligence, you can find effective air fresheners that keep your car smelling clean without putting your health at risk.
Dangers of Some Common Air Freshener Ingredients
Many conventional air fresheners contain chemical ingredients that can be harmful with prolonged exposure. Three ingredients to especially watch out for are:
Phthalates
Phthalates are added to air freshener liquid to help the fragrance stick to surfaces and disperse through the air. However, studies have shown links between phthalates and health issues like hormonal disruption, developmental problems, and asthma. Long-term inhalation of phthalates from air fresheners could pose risks.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
VOCs are chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature. Air fresheners often contain VOCs to help disperse the scent. VOCs can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation along with headaches or loss of coordination from inhalation. Many VOCs are also suspected carcinogens and can be toxic if inhaled in high concentrations over time.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is sometimes used as a preservative in liquid air fresheners. It’s a known human carcinogen that’s also linked to asthma, neurotoxicity, and developmental issues. Air fresheners are a big source of formaldehyde exposure indoors, so it’s best avoided.
The risks of these chemicals increase in small, enclosed spaces with poor ventilation like cars. It’s prudent to avoid air fresheners containing phthalates, VOCs, or formaldehyde, especially if you’ll be exposed regularly on longer commutes.
Safer Air Freshener Ingredients
The key to finding a healthier air freshener is checking the ingredient list for more natural, non-toxic compounds. Two safer options are:
Essential Oils
Essential oils like lemon, lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint, and tea tree oil can provide pleasant scents without harsh chemicals. Just be sure to spot test oils on a hidden area first, as some may stain leather or plastic. Essential oil air fresheners also tend to be more expensive than synthetic versions.
Plant Oils
Some air fresheners use plant-derived oils like soybean, palm, or coconut oil as a safe alternative to petroleum-based chemicals. These natural oil air fresheners provide light scents and moisturize the air. They’re biodegradable and non-toxic as well.
Safest Air Freshener Types for Cars
The formula isn’t the only factor to consider – the type of dispenser matters too. Some basic guidelines:
Gel Air Fresheners
Gel tins or plastic trays filled with fragrance gel provide low-mist diffusion without sprays or vapors. Without liquid, gels won’t leak onto interior surfaces either. Gels tend to be moderately priced and last 1-2 months. Just check ingredients and watch for drying out, which concentrates the gel over time.
Canister Air Fresheners
Canisters contain scented liquid with a wick or perforated openings to passively diffuse the fragrance. Better designs allow adjusting scent strength. Canisters have a lower risk of residue or leaks compared to sprays. For safety, look for spill-proof canisters secured in a holder. Refillable canisters are most cost effective long-term.
Car Diffuser Ceramic Pads
These reusable terracotta or fiber pads are infused with essential oils. Leave in direct sun or low heat to evaporate the oils and scent the car. Diffuser pads provide very mild fragrance without chemical residues. They’re economical and eco-friendly but require regular re-scenting.
Scented Clips
Air vent clips, cardboard trees, and porous scented bags allow adjustable ventilation of fragrance from essential oils. Clips are affordable but scents fade after 1-2 weeks unless you add more oils. Check for non-staining, non-scratching materials if clipping onto vents.
Where to Place Air Fresheners in Your Car
Proper air freshener placement promotes fragrance distribution while minimizing residue on interior surfaces:
Dashboard
Laying a canister, tin, or diffuser pad on the dash allows air circulation to disperse the scent. Avoid soft plastic dashes that could get damaged by some air freshener bases. Don’t place near defrost vents.
Rearview Mirror
Hanging a porous scented bag or canister from the rearview mirror places the fragrance in middle air circulation. Just be sure it doesn’t obstruct your mirror view.
Air Vents
Clip, stick, or wedge canister air fresheners into corner dash vents to move scent through the cabin. Check that it fits securely so it doesn’t dislodge and block airflow.
Cup Holders
Cup holders safely hold canister or tin gel fresheners upright. Scent disperses gradually without risk of spilling.
7 Safest & Healthiest Car Air Freshener Picks
Based on the safety criteria above, here are 7 of the best air freshener options for cars:
| Brand | Name | Type |
|---|---|---|
| PURGGO | Car Diffuser | Canister |
| Yankee Candle | Spill-Proof Vent Clip | Gel canister |
| Febreze | UNSTOPABLES Vent Clip | Scent beads |
| Ozium | Gel Canister Air Sanitizer | Gel canister |
| InnoGear | Aromatherapy Car Diffuser | Ultrasonic diffuser |
| Amir | Ceramic Diffuser Pad Kit | Terracotta diffuser pads |
| Meguiar’s | AirRe-Fresher Odor Eliminator | Odor eliminator spray |
DIY All-Natural Air Freshener Recipe
For a non-toxic and inexpensive air freshener, you can easily make your own with natural ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 3 Tbsp baking soda
- 10-15 Drops essential oil like lemon, lavender, peppermint etc.
- 4 Tbsp water
- Spray bottle
Directions:
- Combine baking soda and essential oils in spray bottle.
- Add water and shake vigorously to dissolve and mix.
- Mist lightly over seats, floor mats, headliners.
- Shake before each use to disperse oils.
The baking soda neutralizes odors while essential oils provide a light scent. Feel free to experiment with different oils or add more baking soda for extra deodorizing power. Store unused portion in a sealed container to maintain fragrance potency.
Conclusion
While air fresheners make a car’s interior more pleasant, it’s important to choose the right types to avoid health hazards or damage. To keep your car smelling fresh safely, look for fresheners with natural essential oils or plant oils in an enclosed canister, gel, diffuser pad, or vent clip. Check labels to ensure no phthalates, VOCs or formaldehyde. Position the air freshener smartly to circulate scent without residue buildup. A homemade baking soda and essential oil freshener also works well. With a little research, you can freshen your car’s air without unwanted risks.