Scented candles, incense, or aroma atomizers are perfect for expelling bad cooking smells, for example, but maybe it's better to open a window instead...
Sofie Vandenbroeck, environmental medical expert at the Flemish Agency for Zorn and Health, says it is better to take it easy with scented candles, aroma atomizers and incense. “You have to be the most careful with incense sticks. Burning it also releases benzene, which is a carcinogen. The benzene content is often even higher than when smoking a cigarette.”
Read also: ‘8 ways to detox your home‘
“The story is a little more nuanced for candles, scented candles and atomizers. The combustion process results in an increased value of particulate matter in the air. This is harmful, but only to the extent that we recommend just being aware of it and not overdoing it.
Scented candles are a little less good than regular candles, because the combustion of the scent leads to even more volatile compounds in the air. This also applies to specimens that contain paraffin, which also spreads additional harmful substances. People with sensitive airways can react strongly to this. If you want to diffuse essential oils, it does not matter whether you use natural or synthetic oils. The combustion process is the culprit for indoor air quality, not the oils.”
According to Vandenbroeck, it is important to ventilate your house well, because the air quality drops sharply if you keep everything closed. She recommends opening a window after cooking and showering. You should also ventilate the bedroom well to expel the much moisture that you lose during your sleep.
Source:Welinlichtingekringen.nl
