Guide for Chemically Sensitive Households

A practical resource for creating and maintaining a safe, comfortable living environment that respects your chemical sensitivities while effectively managing household odors.

Avoiding VOC-Releasing Products

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature, releasing gases that can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. Many common household products contain VOCs.

What to Avoid

Aerosol sprays and air fresheners
Fragranced cleaning products
Scented candles and wax melts
Plug-in air fresheners
Fabric softeners and scented detergents
Paints and finishes with strong odors

Safe Alternatives

Unscented cleaning products
Natural absorbents (charcoal, zeolite)
Plain white vinegar (with ventilation)
Baking soda for cleaning
Unscented laundry products
Low-VOC or VOC-free paints

Storing Clothing to Prevent Odor Buildup

Proper clothing storage is essential for preventing odors from developing and becoming trapped in fabrics. Follow these guidelines to keep your wardrobe fresh without chemical interventions.

Storage Best Practices

Ensure clothing is completely dry before storing—moisture leads to musty odors
Use breathable storage containers—avoid plastic bins that trap moisture
Store in well-ventilated areas with good air circulation
Place natural odor absorbers (charcoal sachets) in closets and drawers
Rotate seasonal clothing regularly to prevent stale air buildup
Keep storage areas clean and free of dust

Textile Choices

Some fabrics naturally trap fewer odors than others. Natural fibers like cotton, linen, and wool tend to breathe better and hold fewer odor molecules compared to synthetic materials.

Cotton: Excellent breathability, easy to clean, minimal odor retention
Linen: Natural antimicrobial properties, dries quickly
Wool: Naturally odor-resistant, but requires careful cleaning
Avoid: Synthetic blends that trap odors and require frequent washing

Safe Washing Routines

Your laundry routine plays a crucial role in maintaining a chemical-free environment. Follow these guidelines for effective, sensitive-friendly washing.

Detergent Selection

Choose unscented, dye-free detergents specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Look for products labeled "fragrance-free" rather than "unscented," as the latter may contain masking fragrances.

Washing Process

Use the minimum recommended detergent amount
Run an extra rinse cycle to remove all residues
Wash in warm or cold water to prevent odor setting
Remove items promptly after washing

Drying Methods

Air-drying outdoors when possible provides natural freshness. If using a dryer, use unscented dryer sheets or skip them entirely. Clean lint traps regularly to prevent musty odors.

Recommended Unscented Cleaners

Maintaining a clean home doesn't require harsh chemicals. These unscented options effectively clean while respecting your sensitivities.

Essential Unscented Cleaners

Baking Soda: Excellent for scrubbing surfaces, deodorizing, and gentle abrasion
White Vinegar: Effective for cutting grease and disinfecting (use with ventilation)
Castile Soap: Unscented liquid soap for general cleaning
Hydrogen Peroxide: Natural disinfectant without strong odors
Lemon Juice: Natural degreaser (use fresh, not scented products)
Plain Water: Often sufficient for regular maintenance cleaning

Ventilation Rhythms

Establishing regular ventilation patterns is one of the most effective ways to maintain fresh air and prevent odor accumulation.

Daily Ventilation

Open windows for 10-15 minutes each morning
Create cross-ventilation when possible
Use exhaust fans during and after cooking
Ventilate bathrooms during and after use

Weekly Deep Ventilation

Open all windows for 30+ minutes weekly
Create maximum air flow through the space
Ventilate closets and storage areas
Check and clean ventilation systems

Safe Home Checklist

Use this checklist to evaluate and maintain a safe, comfortable environment for chemically sensitive individuals.

Air Quality
All air fresheners and scented products removed. Natural odor absorbers in place. Good ventilation established.
Cleaning Products
All cleaning supplies are unscented and free of VOCs. No fragranced products in storage.
Laundry Routine
Unscented detergents in use. Extra rinse cycles enabled. No fabric softeners or scented dryer sheets.
Clothing Storage
Clothing stored in breathable containers. Natural odor absorbers in closets and drawers. Good air circulation maintained.
Textile Choices
Natural fiber fabrics prioritized. Synthetic materials minimized or properly maintained.
Ventilation System
Regular ventilation schedule established. Exhaust fans functional. Windows accessible and operable.
Storage Areas
Closets, basements, and storage spaces well-ventilated. No musty odors present. Natural absorbers in place.
Emergency Preparedness
Safe, unscented cleaning supplies readily available. Ventilation plan for unexpected odors. Natural odor removal methods accessible.