Suppose your air purifier has a humidifier component. You may want to try putting a few drops of aromatic oils in the humidifier before turning on the air purifier to see if this helps. Unfortunately, there is no way to utilize essential oils, especially fabric conditioners such as Downy, in an air purifier if your device does not have a humidifier component.
Tackling the Root Cause of Room Odors
It may be challenging to determine which product is preferable for one’s health, despite both options being beneficial for persons suffering from asthma or allergies. This is because both air purifiers and humidifiers function to reduce the number of allergens that are present in a given space.
Some people work with baking soda to control room odors. Baking soda naturally dispels odors, but may not be sufficient for larger spaces. Furthermore, it’s usually more costly to use baking soda and requires more effort on the whole.
Focusing on Indoor Pollution
Indoor air pollution is a huge problem even in small homes. Using an air freshener does not address it. An air freshener simply masks odors. Additionally, an air freshener may not be ideal for homes or spaces where there are asthmatics around. If someone in your home cannot tolerate an air freshener, we suggest that you skip it altogether.
Beware Allergies
Some people are also allergic to things like laundry detergent. A fabric conditioner is no different. Most brands of fabric conditioner are loaded with artificial fragrances. A fabric conditioner is not a room deodorizer. It doesn’t matter if it’s solid or liquid fabric softener.
And while it’s easy to load the chemical into a spray bottle, the spray bottle method alone is insufficient to address most room odors. The spray bottle method also just masks fumes and odors. Dryer sheets are fine for cabinets and enclosed spaces. If you want to deodorize clothes, use dryer sheets between folded laundry.
The best air purifier can address the cause of the odors and keep your air fresh. That’s the main advantage.
Allergens and You
The presence of allergens in a space can be reduced by using air purifiers and humidifiers, making life simpler for people who suffer from allergies and asthma. An air purifier works by passing air through a filter that captures airborne contaminants and irritants such as smoke, pollen, and even specks of dust. In addition, mold and other bacteria need moisture to grow and thrive; thus, a dehumidifier removes excess moisture from the air while simultaneously lowering humidity levels.
The primary distinction between an air purifier and a humidifier is that air purifiers work by passing air through a filter. In contrast, dehumidifiers work by drawing in moisture from the air. Therefore, the germs, dust, pollen, animal dander, mold, and mildew that are in the air can be removed from the environment using air purifiers. Conversely, humidifiers are machines that remove moisture from the air.
Eliminating the Contaminants in the Air
Air purifiers eliminate pollutants from the air in a room by passing that air through some filters and then sending it back to your room. Dust, fungal spores, and smoke are just some of the airborne allergens and toxins that are captured by the filter. In addition, the levels of humidity in a space can be reduced by using a dehumidifier, which draws in moisture from the air. In turn, bacteria and mold that flourish in moist and humid conditions will not be able to live.
A dehumidifier cannot remove airborne pollutants like pollen, dust particles, or even pollen, but an air purifier can. An air purifier passes air through a filter and then recirculates it. Because it eliminates mold spores from the air, an air purifier can help prevent mold growth. However, because it cannot control the humidity levels in the residence, mold might still return if there is excessive moisture.
The primary objective of a humidifier is to remove excess moisture from the air and to lower the relative humidity level of a room to a more comfortable level. Although this device does not clean or filter the air, it does assist in removing allergens such as mold and dust mites, both of which flourish in moist or humid environments. These allergens and asthma triggers wither and perish in an environment with a humidity level that is less than 50 percent.
Can You Put Fabric Softener in an Air Purifier?
Most contemporary air purifiers function effectively across a broad humidity range. This ensures that the filter performance is unaffected by excessive or insufficient moisture levels in the air. Aside from it, the air purifier humidifier doesn’t remove moisture from the indoor air through its filtration system, which means that it does not compete with the humidifier by causing the air to become drier. Therefore, the air purifier and the humidifier need to be set reasonably far from one another to function correctly.
As was said before, an air purifier must have an attachment designed to act as a humidifier. Still, you cannot apply fabric conditioners on any equipment, or else you’ll ruin the purifying element.
Why There’s Demand for Air Purification
The worrisome pollution that has spread across the world has led to an increase in the number of people using air purifiers and humidifiers. Most customers have had experience using either air purifiers or humidifiers at some point in their lives. It could appear to a newcomer that both of these devices serve the same purpose, yet, there is a significant difference between them.
The humidifier adds moisture to the air, which helps settle particle matter onto the ground, reducing the likelihood of someone getting allergy symptoms. When moisture is added to particulate matter, the total volume of PM 2.5 increases, increasing its weight and leading to gravitational settling.
It is recommended that you use an air purifier that also functions as a humidifier to raise the overall humidity level and minimize the spread of viruses from one living space to another. The prevalence of the virus is significantly higher in environments with high or low relative humidity. Therefore, it is ideal for maintaining a relative humidity level of between 40 and 60 percent to lessen the amount of virus present.
The scent of fabric softener, which is both clean and inviting at the same time, has to be one of the most bright aromas. However, you can use fabric softener in the laundry and other house rooms. One way you can achieve this DIY hack is by producing a fabric softener spray for your curtains.
Curtains may absorb all odors, from cooking to smoking to outside pollutants. Having things done professionally can be costly and time-consuming. With the help of a fabric softener refresher spray, however, you can maintain the pleasant aroma of your drapes. Just like that, you’ll be able to freshen up your curtains. This spray can also be used on linens and other upholstered or soft surfaces.
Can I Put Fabric Softener in A Diffuser?
It would be easier if you didn’t stop using fabric softener because it leaves behind a heavenly scent on the garments you wear. Do-it-yourself projects and life hacks are fantastic, but some require further data to justify their safety.
When you use fabric softener in a diffuser, you run the risk of experiencing adverse health effects as a result of inhaling the chemicals that are contained in the solution—because of this, putting fabric softener in a diffuser is not a good idea because it could end up doing more harm than good.
It’s not the brightest idea to put fabric softener in a diffuser, but you can try it. Unfortunately, mold growth on the product is one possible consequence of using particular components, which is one of the reasons. Because of this, their efficiency as ideal dispensers of scented oil molecules is diminished.
Beware the Effects of Over-Inhaling Artificial Fragrances
When inhaled for a lengthy period, certain of the compounds found in fabric softeners have the potential to irritate the respiratory system. This is because the developers of this chemical intended for it to be used in textiles.
Inhaling is a function that the product’s manufacturers did not intend. Instead, they contain high concentrations of chemicals, some of which are known to be irritating to the respiratory system. And you never know; the accumulation could end up having fatal repercussions.
Because various compounds have varying molecular weights, they may also be responsible for specific blockages. Therefore, the molecules of fabric softener won’t disperse at the same temperature or vibrational frequency as water does.
And thirdly, applying fabric softener to specific types of cloth can cause the fabric to become highly flammable. Finally, the fabric softener stored in an empty glass jar increases the likelihood that it will spill over, as some diffusers do not come equipped with lids.
They’re For Laundry
Fabric softeners are formulated by companies that manufacture detergents to protect the fabric’s integrity. Typically, you use them to give your garments a one-of-a-kind fragrance scent that lingers on them until the next time you wash them, making them feel smoother.
In addition to this, the chemical that is found in fabric softeners has the potential to cause issues with the respiratory system. Therefore, utilizing them as a diffuser poses the risk of not only starting a fire but also aggravating existing respiratory conditions.
Keeping this information in mind, it is clear that using fabric softeners as a diffuser in either a decanter containing sticks or a plug-in diffuser would be exceedingly risky. Especially if you light candles all over the house, this is a formula for disaster waiting to happen.
When attempting this hack, it is not guaranteed that you will encounter a fire or other complications, but it is always preferable to err on caution rather than regret. Stick with fabric softener if you want a worry-free fragrance because the cost of refills for diffusers is typically close to the same as the cost of the product itself.
What is the Difference Between Air Purifiers, Dehumidifiers, and Humidifiers?
Many individuals wouldn’t realize that the three abovementioned appliances serve completely distinct functions in the home. So here are some pointers for learning about the air quality in your home and the devices that can improve it.
Air Purifiers
Purifying the air is the sole function of air purifiers. However, toxins, allergies, and pollutants can irritate the lungs and lead to serious health problems if they are present in indoor air. These toxins might be particularly troublesome if anyone in the house has allergies or asthma. Particles and contaminants can originate from various sources, including animals, cigarettes, cleaning supplies, and even candles.
Though, air purifiers can help eliminate these irritants in the air. First, air purifiers clean the air through filters that trap even the tiniest particles, typically made of activated carbon or thin sieves. Then, using HEPA filters, the air purifiers remove impurities from the air and hold them in place. Once the filter has cleaned the air, the purifier will let it out into the space.
Air purifier maintenance is essential and easy to understand and do. The majority of models only require regular filter replacement. However, depending on the type, the cost of a new filter might range from about $50 to $150. Therefore, it’s recommended to replace most of them every six to nine months and the rest yearly at the absolute latest.
It doesn’t worry what season it is or which room it’s in; an air purifier is always a good idea. Air purifiers are especially beneficial during the months when the house is sealed up, such as the chilly winter and the hot summer. Well-sealed houses are good at keeping out drafts but may also be dangerous airborne pollutants.
Dehumidifiers
Dehumidifiers eliminate moisture from the air, making it less humid, while humidifiers add moisture to the air. These devices remove moisture from the air, making it less favorable for mold formation, pathogens, and other contaminants.
Numerous factors need the installation of a dehumidifier in the house. First, the reduction of humidity is a significant perk because it helps prevent the growth of mold and mildew. In addition, they help eliminate the musty stench that frequently results from mold growth, which contributes to other unpleasant odors. Finally, as the air conditioner has to work more to cool moist air, dehumidifiers may help cut costs.
Although they remove moisture from the air, dehumidifiers do not purify the indoor environment. Instead, dehumidifiers remove moisture from the air, making it less hospitable to the growth of mold and mildew. The accumulation of moisture, especially in dry climes, is a common problem in tiny, poorly ventilated living spaces like bathrooms, apartments, and basements.
They don’t eliminate the mold spores already there or lessen the number of toxins like pet dander, chemicals, or radon; instead, they make the environment less hospitable to mold and mildew. For example, a dehumidifier’s air filter prevents dust from settling on the unit’s coils.
Dehumidifiers pose no greater danger than any other household equipment but have some drawbacks. First, there is potential chemical leakage from household dehumidifiers because many use freon to cool the coil.
Freon could leak even if the product uses a closed system. However, aside from the risk of electrical fires inherent to any electrical device, there is no other reason to be concerned about using a dehumidifier in the home.
Humidifiers
Humidifiers have been used to provide moisture to the air; however, they are ineffective as air purifiers. A room air purifier, which can also function as a humidifier, is the most effective tool for cleaning and purifying the air in a given space.
Humidifiers are available for localized and whole-house humidification; they may use warm or cool mist systems. Humidifiers designed to be used throughout a whole household can be installed in any room with adequate ventilation. In addition, other systems can be integrated into an existing HVAC setup to deliver humidified air through the existing ductwork.
Humidifiers are generally safe to use; however, a few minimal hazards can occur. Children should not be allowed to play with or use warm-mist products because of the risk of burns.
Overuse of humidifiers can cause mold growth due to moisture on walls and windows. Humidifiers should be cleaned regularly to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Humidifiers come in handy throughout the winter in colder climates where heating systems are always on. However, your eyes, tongue, and lungs may experience irritation from the dry air. A further issue is dry skin. On top of that, you might notice that the wood in your home is becoming increasingly dry. This can lead to squeaky windows, unsecured furniture, and gaps in the floorboards.
What Else Can I Put in My Humidifier?
Essential oils should never be placed in the tank of any humidifier because doing so might cause permanent harm to the device and violate the warranty. Instead, only water should be used when filling up the humidifier tank. When it comes to the majority of humidifiers, adding essential oils to the tank has the potential to break down the plastic of the tank and damage the humidifier’s internal components.
Suppose you are using a wicking filter in your filtered excellent moisture humidifier. In that case, you should turn it over each time you fill the water tank to help the filter age more uniformly and to lengthen the life of your wicking filter. This will allow you to use your humidifier for a more extended period.
Depending on the amount of use and the water quality, it is advised that you replace your wicking filter every thirty to sixty days. If you have hard water, your filter may need to be changed more often.
To prevent the humidifier from toppling, it should be put on a sturdy, level, the waterproof surface at four feet minimum and out of the reach of little children.
To maintain a sterile environment within the humidifier and prevent the growth of mold or germs, remember to clean the tank daily and always follow the cleaning instructions. Remember, when water is present in any equipment, the risk of mold growth increases.
Other materials
There are a few ideas you can explore when using a humidifier that will assist in keeping it clean, and they are listed below.
- After filling the tank of your humidifier with water (either distilled or regular), add one cup of white vinegar to the mixture. As a result, mold growth will be inhibited.
- You can also purchase humidifier tablets to place in the tank if you want. They disintegrate in less than ten minutes and can retain aromas! In addition, they contribute to the lengthening of your humidifier’s lifetime by maintaining the tank’s cleanliness while the water is contained within it.
- Besides water, you can put other materials in the humidifier’s tank. These include a few drops of tea tree oil and a minimal quantity of chlorine bleach; nevertheless, it depends on you to choose if you want to have anything like that in your bedroom.
Can Fabric Softener Cause Breathing Problems?
Even though many individuals use fabric softeners when doing their laundry, the vast majority are unaware of the substances that fabric softeners contain. When it comes to helping soften cloth, many producers of softeners do not go into depth about the compounds that they utilize. Unfortunately, most softeners are created from a diverse range of chemicals, some of which can have potentially harmful effects when exposed to the human body over a prolonged period.
Your fabric softener may include phthalates, responsible for dispersing odors; synthetic musks, such as galactoside; and much more. Nearly four thousand different scent components can be found in everyday products, yet there is almost any way to identify them.
Mixtures of fragrances can trigger allergic reactions, skin irritations including dermatitis, respiratory difficulties, and even potentially harmful effects on reproduction. According to research, smells may also create health concerns when vented outside, particularly for people with asthma who are sensitive to the effects of chemicals.
When inhaled, the other compounds found in fabric softeners have the potential to aggravate existing respiratory conditions and create considerable discomfort. For example, benzyl alcohol, a principal component, is an irritant that affects the upper respiratory tract. Other chemicals, such as a-terpineol and pentane, are also capable of causing damage to the lungs. In addition, these substances have been linked to the development of asthma, particularly in children of younger ages.
In the same manner as the phrase “fragrance,” the terms “preservatives” and “colors” or “colorants” on a component label can refer to a wide variety of different substances. The stabilizers in fabric softeners that cause the most concern are methylisothiazolinone and glutaral. Methylisothiazolinone is a powerful skin allergy, while glutaral is known to cause respiratory and skin allergies.
Substances that have been shown to be connected to cancer development are known as carcinogens. It is difficult to identify the specific compounds that are capable of causing cancer; however, substances that have been linked to sufficient evidence are frequently prohibited (like asbestos). However, some chemicals may have been associated with an increased risk of cancer in some studies; however, these chemicals have not yet been investigated sufficiently to establish a causal connection. For example, fabric softeners often contain cancer-causing agents, including chloroform and limonene, classified as carcinogens.
