Are Home Fragrance Products Harmful to Young Children?

Are home fragrance products harmful to young children?

Hello: I saw the news that a pediatrician shared about a 7-year-old girl who experienced chest pain and was taken to a clinic by her mother.
After examination, it was found that she had precocious puberty.
The pediatrician noted that the family had been using a diffuser, and he warned that many fragrance products contain phthalates, which, when used excessively, may affect children's physical development.
Since I have a 2-year-old at home, I took stock of the products we use, and the most fragrant one is the Bref hanging toilet cleaner ball, which makes the entire bathroom smell pleasant.
Given that the child's height is similar to that of the toilet, I wonder if this product could affect my toddler.
Thank you~

Grace, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/10/24

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

These types of products typically contain a variety of compound ingredients, depending on their composition.
For instance, if the ingredients include substances that are inherently harmful to the human body, such as phthalates, they are unsuitable for both adults and children, with the impact being more significant on lighter-weight children.
Some ingredients may not have obvious adverse effects on the human body, but they can easily trigger respiratory allergic reactions in individuals with respiratory allergies, including children, making them unsuitable as well.

Reply Date: 2023/10/24

More Info

The concern regarding home fragrance products and their potential impact on young children is indeed valid, especially given the increasing awareness of the chemicals present in many household items. As you mentioned, a pediatrician recently highlighted a case where a young girl experienced precocious puberty, which was linked to the use of fragrance diffusers that may contain harmful substances such as phthalates. Phthalates are a group of chemicals used to make plastics more flexible and harder to break, and they are often found in various household products, including air fresheners and cleaning supplies.

When it comes to young children, their developing bodies are particularly vulnerable to environmental toxins. Children have a higher respiratory rate than adults, which means they breathe in more air relative to their body weight. This can lead to a greater exposure to airborne chemicals, including those released from scented products. Additionally, children's skin is thinner and more permeable, making them more susceptible to chemical absorption.

The specific product you mentioned, the Bref hanging toilet cleaner, is designed to release fragrance continuously. While it may make the bathroom smell pleasant, it is essential to consider the ingredients. Many cleaning and fragrance products contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can contribute to indoor air pollution and may cause respiratory issues, headaches, or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, including children.
To assess whether a product is safe for your child, it is crucial to look at the ingredient list. If the product contains phthalates, synthetic fragrances, or other harmful chemicals, it may be best to avoid using it, especially in areas where your child spends a lot of time. Opting for products labeled as "fragrance-free" or "free from harmful chemicals" can be a safer choice.
Moreover, it is advisable to ensure proper ventilation in areas where such products are used. Keeping windows open or using exhaust fans can help reduce the concentration of any potentially harmful chemicals in the air.
In terms of alternatives, consider using natural air fresheners, such as essential oils, which can provide pleasant scents without the harmful additives found in many commercial products. However, it's important to note that some essential oils can also be irritating to young children, so they should be used with caution and in moderation. Always consult with a pediatrician before introducing any new products into your home environment, especially those that may affect your child's health.

In conclusion, while home fragrance products can enhance the ambiance of your living space, it is crucial to be mindful of their potential effects on young children. By choosing safer alternatives and ensuring proper ventilation, you can help minimize any risks associated with these products. If you have any specific concerns about a product's ingredients or its safety for your child, consulting with a healthcare professional is always a wise step.

Similar Q&A

Are Air Fresheners Harmful? Understanding Risks and Safety Tips

1. Are indoor air fresheners harmful to the human body? Which organs or systems can they affect? Why is it labeled "Keep out of reach of children"? 2. With the current SARS outbreak, what is the concentration of the commonly used disinfectant at home—bleach? Should it...

Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
The main components of fragrances include aromatic compounds and organic solvents. The aromatic compounds are categorized into three types: natural extracts, semi-synthetic, and synthetic. Some manufacturers specifically advertise their products as "methanol-free," indi...

Are Deodorants and Perfumes Harmful to Your Health?

I would like to ask the doctor: Recently, news reports have stated that indoor air fresheners can cause cancer. So, if I use deodorants, antiperspirants, or perfumes, will long-term use be harmful to the body? Thank you.

Dr. Huang Ruiyun reply Dermatology
Hello: Currently, there is not enough evidence. Wishing you safety.

Is Mold Exposure Harmful to Infants? Safety Tips for Parents

Hello Doctor, I apologize for bothering you. I would like to ask a question. Recently, there has been mold in my home, so yesterday I used sodium hypochlorite to wipe down the furniture and some walls in the room. As a result, there is a strong odor in the room. Although I opened...

Dr. He Shenglong reply Pediatrics
Hello: The letter mentions a strong smell of wiped sodium hypochlorite in the room, which may cause some discomfort, but it is unlikely to cause direct harm. Of course, it is important to pay attention to ventilation issues in the future. Thank you for your letter!

Is Camphor Wood Furniture Safe for Infants with Favism?

Hello, I have a nearly three-month-old baby at home who has favism. Recently, we purchased a TV cabinet made of camphor wood, which emits a camphor scent. I would like to know if this could have any adverse effects on my baby. Please let me know, thank you!

Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: Generally, substances that can cause Favism include camphor, gentian violet, and essential oils. As for the camphor wood TV cabinet, opinions vary; some say it can cause issues while others disagree. However, since your child is still very young, you should be cautious abo...