When you think about “new car smell,” you might picture that iconic little tree air freshener hanging from the mirror. But what if I told you that most car air fresheners release hundreds of chemicals — some of which can disrupt your brain, hormones, and lungs?
Studies, like those cited by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), show that many popular air fresheners release dozens, sometimes hundreds, of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), phthalates, and other harmful substances. These chemicals aren’t just passive scents — they’re actively altering the air you breathe.
I know firsthand how bad it can be. I live with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS), and I can’t count how many times I’ve gotten into someone else’s car and instantly felt sick — brain fog, dizziness, nausea, and even chest tightness — just from whatever air freshener they were using. It’s not about being picky. For people like me, it’s about basic health and survival.
And it’s not just people with MCS who are at risk. Kids and pets are especially vulnerable. Their smaller bodies and developing systems are more sensitive to chemical exposure. Regular exposure to synthetic fragrances can affect respiratory development, hormone balance, and even cognitive function.
If you’re wondering whether common services like Uber, Waymo, or rental cars use these products — the answer is: often, yes. Many rideshares and rentals use commercial air fresheners or sprays to make the car feel “clean.” That means if you’re sensitive like me, getting into one of these vehicles can feel like walking into a chemical cloud. Some taxi services and airport shuttles are even worse. I’ve had to exit cars mid-ride before because the scent triggered such an intense reaction. It’s embarrassing, exhausting, and sadly, still misunderstood.
What You Can Do Instead
Here are some safe and natural alternatives to keep your car smelling clean without harming your health:
1. Activated Charcoal Bags
These absorb odors without releasing chemicals. Moso Natural makes long-lasting, fragrance-free options.
2. Baking Soda
Place an open container under a seat or in a cup holder to neutralize odors. Refresh monthly.
3. Essential Oil Diffusers (With Caution)
Use diffusers with 100% pure essential oils like lemon or lavender. Trusted brands: Plant Therapy, Rocky Mountain Oils, Aura Cacia.
That said, I personally can’t tolerate any scents in a small space — even natural ones. If you’re sensitive like me, skip this one and stick with fragrance-free options.
4. DIY Vent Clips
Place a few drops of essential oil on a cotton pad and clip it to the air vent. Refresh as needed.
5. Air Out Regularly
Crack the windows. Letting in fresh air is one of the simplest and best ways to keep your car clean-smelling and safe.
Why It Matters
Your car should be a safe space — especially for those with allergies, asthma, migraines, or chronic illness. But even if you’re healthy, synthetic air fresheners can build up in your system over time.
You’re breathing in chemicals linked to hormone disruption, asthma, neurological symptoms, and even cancer.
More reading:
Final Thought
We all want clean, fresh spaces — but there’s a big difference between clean and chemical.
Switching to natural alternatives is one small but powerful way to protect your health and the people (and pets) you love.
If you’ve ever walked into a car and immediately felt sick — you’re not crazy. You’re reacting to something real. And you’re not alone.
Most people don’t realize that companies aren’t required to disclose all the ingredients in fragrance blends. This means you could be breathing in hazardous chemicals without knowing it. According to MADE SAFE, common air fresheners may contain ingredients linked to hormone disruption, cancer, and developmental toxicity—even though these substances aren’t listed on the label.
Let’s stop normalizing toxic exposure. Let’s start normalizing clean air.
Have a favorite natural car freshener idea? Drop it in the comments and help someone else breathe easier.
If this resonated with you, share it with a friend who still hangs that little tree.
