Ever walk into a bathroom after someone had left it a little… smelly?

I’m not talking about that kind of smell. After all, we are all mammals. I’m talking the un-natural, flowery (or fruit) chemical-laden smell of an air freshener spray. Air fresheners are a billion dollar business and are linked to numerous health problems including headaches, alter hormone levels, allergic symptoms and asthma. Plus, they contain phthalates which are bad news for your reproductive system (male or female) and are linked to birth defects – even in your cosmetics (regardless of what Katie Couric’s “experts” say).  Personally, I’ve gagged a few times at the now petunia-‘fresh’, artificially-flavored overwhelming.

What are viable alternatives?

Try soy candles, dried flowers and nature’s scents like lemon and oranges with baking soda. In fact, try any of these 12 natural DIY air fresheners.

Readers, what do you use for a natural air freshener?

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Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia. View all posts by Julie Hancher