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Best Non-Toxic Room & Fabric Spray in 2024
Updated:
Nov 18, 2024
Written by Camille May
Cofounder & Product Curator
+ 1 more
Medically reviewed by Olushola Awoyemi
PhD Environmental Toxicology
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Our use of affiliate links does not influence how we rate products. Learn more about our affiliate policy here.
What you should know when choosing non-toxic room & fabric sprays on Welpr:
- Only the cleanest products make it onto Welpr.
- We use a score called the Welpr Rating to rank each product.
- The Welpr Rating is based on math, not opinion, ensuring it's free from human bias.
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Find Non-Toxic Room & Fabric Spray
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Air Scense Natural Air Refreshers, Lime - Citra Solv
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$14.69
Product Details
- Made from premium essential oils and plant extractives for a refreshing, long-lasting scent.
- Non-aerosol pump spray with recyclable aluminum can, promoting reduced carbon footprint and environmental impact.
- Provides up to 3000 sprays per can, offering more usage compared to most leading air fresheners.
- Comes with a guarantee, ensuring customer satisfaction and product trust.
- Includes usage instructions for optimal performance, such as nozzle removal and inner tube pumping.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Long-lasting
- Pleasant
- Effective
Cons Mentioned
- Defective
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Limonene (The Clear Liquid From The Peel Of The Orange, Food Grade), Concentrated Lime Oil Blend (Plant-Derived)
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Room Freshener, Basil - Mrs. Meyer's
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$13.39
Product Details
- Made with essential oils and other thoughtfully chosen ingredients.
- Delivers quick freshening between cleaning days with a non-aerosol spray bottle.
- Cruelty-free formulas; certified by Leaping Bunny.
- Features a garden-inspired Basil scent that is cool, crisp, uplifting, and grounding.
- Free from propellants, phthalates, parabens, and artificial colors.
- Uses at least 30% post-consumer plastic in bottles (excluding trigger).
- Available in a variety of garden-inspired scents and products.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Fresh
- Natural
- Pleasant
Cons Mentioned
- Weak
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Water, Alcohol Denat, Fragrance, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Trideceth-9, Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Oil, Carum Petroselinum (Parsley) Seed Oil, Piper Nigrum (Black Pepper) Seed Oil, Sodium Citrate
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Aromatherapy Mist, Lavender - Aura Cacia
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$6.32
Product Details
- Made using 100% pure essential oils.
- Combination of lavender, lavandin, and spike lavender essential oils designed to calm the senses, relax the body, and soothe the spirit.
- Safe for use on both room and body due to its simple composition of water and pure essential oils.
- Packaged in a sturdy, recyclable, and reusable aluminum bottle that protects contents from contamination and degradation.
- Produced by Frontier Co-op, a brand committed to responsibility towards people and plant.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Relaxing
- Natural
- Soothing
Cons Mentioned
- Fleeting
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Lactobacillus Ferment, Benzoic Acid, Lavandula Intermedia (Lavandin) Oil, Lavandula Latifolia (Spike Lavender) Oil, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Room & Linen Spray Concentrate, Sweet Lemongrass - Good Natured
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$9.99
Product Details
- Offers long-lasting freshness with a lingering sweet lemongrass scent using natural essential oils.
- Hypoallergenic and crafted with premium natural essential oils, making it safe for children and pets and cruelty-free.
- Provides bright citrus aromatherapy that encourages motivation and purifies the air, also associated with boosting self-esteem and bravery through balancing the third chakra.
- Can be used in various spaces like bedding, living areas, bathrooms, and cars to refresh and eliminate odors.
- Cost-effective and eco-friendly; mix 1 oz of concentrate with 15 oz of water to create a powerful odor eliminator. One 4 oz bottle makes up to 64 oz of spray.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Refreshing
- Concentrated
- Customizable
Cons Mentioned
- Leaked
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Water, Decyl Glucoside, Cymbopogon Schoenanthus (Lemongrass) Oil
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Room Spray, Lavender & Bergamot - Everspring
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$13.99
Product Details
- Naturally fragranced with plant extracts and essential oils.
- Non-toxic to humans when used as directed.
- 100% natural fragrance.
- Not tested on animals.
- Free from parabens, ammonia, and formaldehyde-donating preservatives.
- Biodegradable formula.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Subtle
- Pleasant
- Long-lasting
Cons Mentioned
- Strong
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Water, Natural Fragrance, Bergamot Oil, Eucalyptus Oil, Lavandin Oil, Lavender Oil, Patchouli Oil, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil (Castor Seed Oil), Ethanol, Benzisothiazolinone
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Room & Fabric Freshener, Gardenia - Grab Green
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$23.79
Product Details
- Formulated with biodegradable ingredients to eliminate odors and freshen rooms and fabrics.
- Contains plant- and mineral-based ingredients without phosphates, phthalates, ammonia, formaldehyde, or dyes.
- Incorporates a gardenia scent derived from natural sources, designed to purify and offer a sweet, soft fragrance.
- Utilizes zinc ricinoleate for natural odor neutralization, suitable for air scenting and refreshing fabrics in areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
- Proudly cruelty-free, never tested on animals.
- Manufactured in the USA by a female and mother-owned company that emphasizes eco-responsibility and non-toxic household products.
- Committed to transparency by listing every ingredient and its purpose on the packaging.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Pleasant
- Long-lasting
- Natural
Cons Mentioned
- Overpowering
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Deionized Water, Zinc Ricinolate, Fragrance, Ceylon Cinnamon Essential Oil, Sodium Iminodisuccinate, Alcohol Ethoxylate, Benzisothiazolinone, Ingredients Vary By Scent
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Istros Aromatique Room Spray, Pink Pepper Lavender & Tobacco - Aesop
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$98.99
Product Details
- Aesop Istros Aromatique Room Spray features a blend of enlivening florals and tobacco.
- Designed to stimulate the atmosphere with aromas reminiscent of a bazaar.
- Application involves spraying two to three pumps throughout the immediate space, with the aroma lasting for several hours.
- Key ingredients include pink pepper, lavender, and tobacco.
- The aroma is described as vibrant, floral, and smoky.
- Formulated with a focus on efficacy and sensory pleasure.
- All Aesop products are vegan and unisex.
- Does not involve testing on animals and is Leaping Bunny approved.
- Aesop is a Certified B Corporation.
- Packaging is made from a minimum of 97% recycled plastics.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Calming
- Delicious
- Quality
Cons Mentioned
- Expensive
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Alcohol Denat., PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Fragrance (Parfum), Polysorbate 80, Citronellol, Linalool, Geraniol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Limonene, Citral, Anise Alcohol, Farnesol, Coumarin
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Refreshing Room & Linen Spray, Peppermint & Lemon - Rebel Green
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$11.51
Product Details
- Made with essential oil
- Cruelty-free/not tested on animals
- Sulfate-free
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Sensitive-friendly
- Organic-smell
- Deodorizing
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Water, Polysorbate 20 (Solubilizer), Ethanol SDA 3C (Dispersant), Mentha Piperitas And Citrus Limon Peel Oil (Fragrance)
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Aromatherapy Spray, Rose + Sandalwood - 8 Days
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$23.99
Product Details
- Handcrafted with fresh rose petals from an organic farm in Sonoma County, California.
- Suspended in a base of certified organic rose hydrosol to uplift the senses.
- Contains aromatherapeutic, certified organic essential oils and precious botanical absolutes.
- Formulated with locally-sourced, organic grape alcohol to refresh and clean the air.
- Free of synthetic fragrances, parabens, phthalates, dyes, and aluminum.
- 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and contains 94% certified organic ingredients.
- Uses environmentally conscious practices including reusable glass packaging and electric delivery vehicles.
- Multi-purpose as a room, body, and pillow spray, and for meditation and yoga.
- Leaping Bunny certified, confirming no animal testing.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Relaxing
- Refreshing
- Soothing
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Water, *Pinus Sylvestris (Pine) Hydrosol, *Essential Oils, *Grape Alcohol, *Sequoia Sempervirens (Coast Redwood) Tips, Caprylyl/Capryl Glycosides, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Citric Acid
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Room + Linen Spray, TAUNT - Dedcool
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$40.00
Product Details
- Features the scent 01 "Taunt" which includes top notes of bergamot and fresh dew, middle notes of floral and cassis, and bottom notes of vanilla and amber.
- Made with 100% organic and natural plant extracts and biodegradable ingredients.
- Designed to evoke an aura of confidence and intensify uniqueness.
- Free from animal testing.
- Packaging is largely recyclable and reusable, with encouragement for refilling.
- Fragrances have a shelf life of 12 months and may adjust in color with exposure to direct sunlight or fluorescent lighting.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Long-lasting
- Musky
- Complimented
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Parfum (Fragrance), Polysorbate-20, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate , *Certified Organic Extracts Of Borago Officinalis (Borage) Seed Extract, Sambucus Nigra (Elder) Flower Extract, Camellia Sinnsis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail) Extract, Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Fruit Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, Trifolium Pratense (Clover) Extract, Althea Officinalis (Marshmallow) Root Extract, Rosa Canina (Rose) Fruit Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Humulus Lupulus (Hops) Extract, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Extract, Macrocystis Pyrifera (Kelp) Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Ilex Paraguariensis (Yerba Mate) Leaf Extract, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract, Camellia Sinensis (White Tea) Leaf Extract, Fucus Vesiculosus (Bladderwrack) Extract, Porphyra Yezoensis (Red Algae) Extract, Alcohol Denat
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.
Hypoallergenic Air Purifier, Eucalyptus & Lavender - Attitude
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$9.99
Product Details
- Activated carbon: Eliminates odors and traps contaminants.
- Adjustable vents: Allows for easy intensity control.
- Scent: Releases a gentle fragrance of lavender and eucalyptus.
- Formulated from plant and mineral origin ingredients.
- Effective for up to six weeks, effectiveness dependent on room size.
- Designed to create a peaceful atmosphere through its herbaceous aromas.
- Vegan-friendly product.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Natural
- Effective
- Fresh
Cons Mentioned
- Subtle
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.
Ingredients: Activated Carbon (Air Purifier), Resin (Odor Neutralizing And Fragrance Releaser), Natural Plant-Derived Fragrance
Our Product Rating System
First, Camille (co-creator of Welpr) hand picks cleaner product options from a variety of sources.
Next, we collect information about each product's safety, consumer satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing.
Finally, we run all this information through an algorithm that calculates the Welpr Rating.
Welpr Rating:
5.0/5
Part 1: Product safety
We evaluate safety information from 3rd party organizations (e.g. EWG, Made Safe, etc.). Instead of relying solely on any one of these companies for safety information, we assess all of them.
Part 2: Consumer satisfaction
We scour the web for consumer ratings and reviews to verify products are not only cleaner options, but also effective. Products can either be Above Average, Average, or Below average for their respective category (e.g. cleaning products).
Part 3: Ethics & Environment
When you buy a product, you’re supporting that company with your dollars. We believe it’s important to support ethical companies, so we pool together certifications that verify a company's ethics and environmental impact.
Common Harmful Chemicals in Room & Fabric Spray
Chemical Name
Why it’s harmful
Methylchloroisothiazolinone
5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one (CMI) is a compound frequently used as a preservative in cosmetics, hygiene products, and other industrial applications such as hydraulic fracturing fluids. It can also be deployed as a pesticide in the U.S, pending regulatory approval. CMI, which is often used in combination with 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one (MI), can cause contact dermatitis in humans. Various animal studies have shown that a high exposure to a CMIT/MIT mixture can cause alterations in rats' liver function. The production and use of CMI in a range of products mean it can be release into the environment, with some susceptibility to degradation through photolysis in sunlight. Its mobility in soil is high but volatilization from soil or water surfaces is not expected to be significant. Occupational and general exposure to CMI can occur especially through inhalation and dermal contact with CMI-containing products.
Sources:
Antimicrobial agents, triclosan, chloroxylenol, methylisothiazolinone and borax, used in cleaning had genotoxic and histopathologic effects on rainbow trout, Methylisothiazolinone toxicity and inhibition of wound healing and regeneration in planaria, Methylchloroisothiazolinone and/or methylisothiazolinone in cosmetic products, Isothiazolinone Biocides: Chemistry, Biological, and Toxicity Profiles, Methylisothiazolinone and isothiazolinone allergy, Analysis of isothiazolinones in environmental waters by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, Methylisothiazolinone induces apoptotic cell death via matrix metalloproteinase activation in human bronchial epithelial cells, EU REGULATIONS , Methylisothiazolinone contact allergy: a review, Effects of methylisothiazolinone and octylisothiazolinone on development and thyroid endocrine system in zebrafish larvae, Two Cases of Chloromethylisothiazolinone and Methylisothiazolinone-associated Toxic Lung Injury, An update of the risk assessment for methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI) with focus on rinse-off products, Effects of a mixture of chloromethylisothiazolinone and methylisothiazolinone on peripheral airway dysfunction in children, Isothiazolinone preservative: cause of a continuing epidemic of cosmetic dermatitis, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: Methylisothiazolinone and Methylchloroisothiazolinone
Methylisothiazolinone
Methylisothiazolinone can reportedly cause allergic contact dermatitis in workers who interact with products containing it. This substance is recognized as a contact allergen for consumers using cosmetics that include it. It can cause skin burns and sensitization, and inhaling it may lead to corrosive injuries in the upper respiratory tract and lungs. Ingesting this substance is harmful, and inhalation is toxic. This preservative is linked to the category of isothiazolinones.
Sources:
Antimicrobial agents, triclosan, chloroxylenol, methylisothiazolinone and borax, used in cleaning had genotoxic and histopathologic effects on rainbow trout, Methylisothiazolinone toxicity and inhibition of wound healing and regeneration in planaria, Methylchloroisothiazolinone and/or methylisothiazolinone in cosmetic products, Isothiazolinone Biocides: Chemistry, Biological, and Toxicity Profiles, Methylisothiazolinone and isothiazolinone allergy, Analysis of isothiazolinones in environmental waters by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, Methylisothiazolinone induces apoptotic cell death via matrix metalloproteinase activation in human bronchial epithelial cells, EU REGULATIONS , Methylisothiazolinone contact allergy: a review, Effects of methylisothiazolinone and octylisothiazolinone on development and thyroid endocrine system in zebrafish larvae, Two Cases of Chloromethylisothiazolinone and Methylisothiazolinone-associated Toxic Lung Injury, An update of the risk assessment for methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI) with focus on rinse-off products, Effects of a mixture of chloromethylisothiazolinone and methylisothiazolinone on peripheral airway dysfunction in children, Isothiazolinone preservative: cause of a continuing epidemic of cosmetic dermatitis, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: Methylisothiazolinone and Methylchloroisothiazolinone
Diethyl Phthalate
Diethyl phthalate is a synthetic, colorless liquid used mainly for making plastics more flexible, and is found in a range of products from toothbrushes to food packaging. The substance can be released from these products as it is not part of the plastic's polymer chain. Additionally, diethyl phthalate is used in cosmetics, insecticides, and aspirin. However, it is known to be an eye and respiratory irritant when heated, and has reportedly caused allergic contact dermatitis. Long-term and high-dose exposure to the chemical, notably in rats and mice, has resulted in testicular damage, increased fetal losses, malformations, and possible central nervous system depression.
Benzisothiazolinone
Isothiazolinones are preservatives known to cause allergic contact dermatitis, primarily in workers involved in manufacturing industries like paint, paper, rubber, and air fresheners. Additionally, there's a reported case of occupational asthma from exposure to this chemical among workers.
VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are released by many cleaning products, as revealed by a study in Chemosphere which analyzed 30 such items. Of the 530 distinct VOCs identified, 193 were considered hazardous, linked to health issues like respiratory system damage and cancer. Indoor air contamination from VOCs is significantly higher than outdoor, with up to 10 times more pollutants. However, products labeled as green, particularly those without fragrances, exhibited fewer hazardous VOC emissions. Exposure to VOCs has critical health implications, especially for cleaning industry workers and children, and these compounds also contribute to outdoor air pollution.
Butylphenyl Methylpropional
Butylphenyl methylpropional, also known as lilial, is a chemical compound commonly used in cosmetics and laundry powders. It is found naturally in crow-dipper and tomato plants and is also produced synthetically in large quantities. In May 2019, the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) deemed its use in cosmetics as unsafe. Following animal studies indicating reproductive toxicity, the EU banned its use in cosmetics by March 2022. Moreover, butylphenyl methylpropional can sometimes serve as an allergen, potentially leading to contact dermatitis in susceptible individuals.
Sources:
Fragranced consumer products: exposures and effects from emissions, 10 reasons to avoid synthetic fragrances in cleaning products, Synthetic chemical in consumer products linked to early death, study finds, Review of the Styrene Assessment in the National Toxicology Program 12th Report on Carcinogens, Expert Panel Confirms that Fragrance Ingredient Can Cause Cancer, Fragrances, Beyond the Label: Health Impacts of Harmful Ingredients in Cleaning Products
Toluene
Toluene is a clear, colorless liquid that naturally occurs in crude oil and the tolu tree. It's prominent in the production of gasoline, coke from coal, and various consumer products like paints, adhesives, and nail polish. Toluene is even added to gasoline, used to create benzene, and acts as a solvent. However, exposure to toluene, especially from inhalation, can have serious health effects. It primarily targets the central nervous system, inducing symptoms like fatigue, nausea, headaches, and in chronic cases, can cause severe dysfunction. Exposure has also been linked to developmental effects in children, but there isn't enough evidence to conclude its carcinogenic potential. Abuse of toluene can cause permanent brain damage, liver injury, and even potential birth defects or increased risk of spontaneous abortions in pregnant women. Despite these risks, cognitive deficits from toluene exposure below a threshold limit value (TLV) of 50 ppm remain extremely low.
Benzyl Alcohol
Benzyl alcohol can occasionally lead to allergic contact dermatitis or occupational contact urticaria. It can irritate the skin and eyes, and inhalation at high quantities can result in central nervous system effects. Rats exposed to high concentrations showed no deaths, however, it has caused fatalities in premature infants when given in IV solutions at doses over 4.5mg/kg a day. The substance is quickly metabolized to hippuric acid and is noted as a known contact allergen in humans.
DMDM hydantoin
DMDM hydantoin is a substance used in cosmetics that has the potential to cause allergic contact dermatitis, although rinse-off products generally have a low risk. According to various reports, skin sensitization patch testing has yielded positive results.
Hydrochloric Acid
Hydrochloric acid is used in multiple industries like chlorides, fertilizers, dyes, electroplating, and others. It has dangerous health effects like irritation and inflammation of eyes, nose and respiratory tract, and pulmonary edema after short-term inhalation; corrosion to mucous membranes, esophagus, and stomach and severe burns after oral exposure; dermatitis, photosensitization, gastritis and chronic bronchitis after long-term occupational exposure. While the EPA hasn't classified hydrochloric acid for carcinogenicity, many chemicals can spill to release HCl in water.
d-Limonene
d-Limonene is a liquid with a lemon-like smell, often used as a solvent to substitute for more volatile and toxic organic solvents. When it comes into contact with air, it can oxidize, and this oxidized form is a known skin sensitizer, capable of irritating skin and eyes. The combination of d-limonene and l-limonene is known as limonene or dipentene. The estimated lethal dose for humans is between 0.5 to 5 g/kg, and studies have shown that it can cause diarrhea and liver effects when ingested in high doses.
Linalool
Linalool is a naturally occurring terpene alcohol found in many flowers and spice plants, consisting of two enantiomers. It is widely used in commercial products for its pleasant floral and spicy scent, serving as a key ingredient in soaps, fragrances, food flavors, household products, and insecticides. In plants, linalool functions as a metabolite, volatile oil component, antimicrobial agent, and aroma compound. Acute exposure to linalool can lead to central depressive effects with symptoms such as ataxia, reduced motor activity, and respiratory disturbances. Additionally, inhalation, oral intake, or skin absorption can result in irritation, pain, and allergic reactions.
Sodium Borate
Sodium borate, a toxic white powder, is used in various products ranging from cleaning agents and personal care items to children's toys for pH adjustment. Commonly known as borax, it's found in cleaners, detergents, air fresheners, diaper creams, and some toys like playdough. Although often considered a "green" component, sodium borate can lead to organ system toxicity, fertility issues, harm to an unborn child, endocrine disruption, skin allergies, eye and respiratory irritation, and damage to the male reproductive system. Canada has imposed restrictions on its use in cosmetics.
Sources:
Assessment of consumer exposure to boron in cleaning products: a case study of Canada, Watch Out For Borax, Borax: Not the green alternative it's cracked up to be, Antimicrobial agents, triclosan, chloroxylenol, methylisothiazolinone and borax, used in cleaning had genotoxic and histopathologic effects on rainbow trout ,
Trideceth-4
Trideceth-4 is a water-soluble compound with notable wetting, permeability, and emulsifying properties. It enhances the effectiveness of certain silicone oils and is used in various applications including metal processing aids, detergents, and household cleaning agents. However, it can be harmful if ingested and is known to cause serious eye damage, skin irritation, and eye irritation, as indicated by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). Despite these concerns, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has determined it to be safe when formulated to be non-irritating.
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