Genius House Hacks · a GopherCentral & PulseTV publication
Household Hacks & Natural Remedies · May 10, 2022 edition

Four Chemical-Free Ways to Freshen the Air at Home

From the Genius House Hacks archive.

Genius House Hacks logo

Most air fresheners you buy in the supermarket don't actually destroy odors — they just mask them, often with a cocktail of chemicals that aren't especially healthy for you or the environment, including formaldehyde, phenol, and petroleum distillates like butane and propane. Here are a few healthier, more environmentally friendly alternatives you can make yourself. (Be cautious with these if you have young children or pets around the house.)

Use an Orange-and-Salt Deodorizer

Sprinkle a tablespoon of salt into a halved orange with the flesh scooped out and set it where odors tend to linger.

Soak Up Odors With Baking Soda

Baking soda is great for absorbing acidic odors. It can also be used as a spray — dissolve a teaspoon in a cup of water and mist it as needed.

Neutralize Odors With Vinegar

Vinegar neutralizes alkaline odors. It can smell a little strong itself at first, but that initial odor fades quickly.

Simmer Citrus or Cinnamon on the Stove

Placing citrus fruit or cinnamon in a pot of water and simmering gently for a few minutes will completely invigorate a room.

Got a handy tip of your own?

Reply and let us know, we love hearing your tips.

Subscribe to Genius House Hacks
This edition is part of the Genius House Hacks archive — 20+ years of tips, rebuilt from the original Handy Hints newsletter. Browse more hacks →