Car air fresheners seem pretty harmless, right? They keep our vehicles smelling pleasant, and the fragrance options are endless. But growing evidence suggests these everyday products may come with hidden health risks, especially in the enclosed space of a car.

What's Actually in Car Air Fresheners?

Studies have identified that car air fresheners emit numerous volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including some classified as potentially hazardous . A 2020 study by the CDC found that car air fresheners, including both regular and "natural" versions, emit a range of volatile chemicals, many of which are not disclosed to the public .

In fact, one analysis of 12 car air fresheners found they collectively emitted 546 VOCs, with 30 classified as potentially hazardous – and none of these were disclosed on product labels . Even products labelled as "natural" showed no significant difference in the emission of hazardous compounds compared to regular versions . Many commercial products also carry warning labels indicating they can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and serious eye irritation .

Health Risks Linked to Air Fresheners

The enclosed environment of a vehicle allows chemical concentrations to build up quickly, making the potential for health effects more concerning than in larger spaces .

Short-term effects: Spraying air fresheners can rapidly increase particle concentrations in the vehicle cabin, with nanoparticles making up a significant portion . One study measured total VOC concentrations reaching 364.3 µg/m³ in the front seat after spraying . This can trigger headaches, nausea, respiratory irritation, and dizziness – especially for drivers who are fragrance-sensitive or have pre-existing conditions like asthma or allergies .

Long-term risks: Research has linked air freshener exposure to cardiovascular disease, systemic inflammation, and autonomic dysfunction . The secondary products formed when fragrance compounds react with ozone – including formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and acrolein – can be even more irritating than the original compounds .

Why cars are particularly risky: "Car air freshener emissions are of particular concern, given that car interiors are small and enclosed spaces," states the CDC study. "Air fresheners, which add a chemical mixture into the air space, are designed to impart a scent or mask an odor, rather than to reduce air pollutants or health risks" .

Who Is Most at Risk?

According to the American Lung Association, people with asthma, allergies, migraines, or chemical sensitivities tend to have stronger reactions. Common irritation areas include the nose, throat, and eyes, while headaches, dizziness, coughing, brain fog, or light-headedness are also possible . Anyone with children, pets, or elderly or immunosensitive passengers should be especially cautious.

Safer Alternatives for a Fresh-Smelling Car

Instead of masking odors with synthetic fragrances, consider addressing the root cause and using safer alternatives:

• Activated charcoal bags – Absorb odours and moisture without releasing any chemicals. Can be recharged by placing in direct sunlight monthly .

• Baking soda jars – Place a small jar with baking soda and a few drops of essential oil in a cup holder to naturally absorb and neutralise odors .

• Essential oil diffusers – Use wooden clothespins with a few drops of essential oil clipped to air vents, or create small clay ornaments that absorb and slowly release scents .

• Citrus peels & herbs – Dried citrus peels combined with herbs like rosemary or mint in a small breathable pouch .

• Regular ventilation – Park with windows slightly cracked when possible to circulate fresh air, and occasionally switch the air conditioning to outside air intake .

If you do choose to use a scented product: opt for milder scents, avoid vent clips which can dispense VOCs directly into the airflow , and periodically open windows to allow fresh air to enter the vehicle. The stronger "extra strength" formulas can be the biggest issue in a small cabin space .

Final Thoughts

While the occasional use of a car air freshener is unlikely to cause serious harm for most people, regular exposure in a confined space may pose health risks. For those with respiratory conditions or chemical sensitivities, the safer choice is to avoid synthetic fragrances altogether and opt for odour-absorbing solutions like charcoal bags or natural alternatives. If you choose to use air fresheners, use them sparingly and ensure your car is well-ventilated to minimise exposure.