Volatile Organic Compounds in the Home
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are significant contributors to indoor air pollution.
“Volatile” refers to the fact that these chemicals evaporate easily at room temperature. “Organic” simply means that they are carbon-based. There are thousands of VOCs.
VOCs They are emitted into our homes as gases from countless household sources, including paints, furniture, carpeting, beauty and personal care products, laundry products, and cleaning supplies. As a result, indoor VOC levels are often two to five times higher than outdoor levels.
VOC exposure affects both comfort and health. Short-term effects of exposure can include headaches, dizziness, and eye or throat irritation, and long-term exposure to some VOCs, like formaldehyde and benzene, is linked to organ damage and cancer risk.
Fragrances are important sources of VOCs in the home. Scented candles, air fresheners, hair or beauty products, and even trash bags, may release dozens of VOCs per use. Laundry products are another major contributor, since scented detergents, fabric softeners, and dryer sheets emit compounds that continue off-gassing from fabric long after washing.
Pairing fragrance-free product selection with proper ventilation and low-VOC building materials can significantly improve air quality. Because modern airtight buildings trap VOCs rather than letting them disperse, make thoughtful choices, especially around scented products. Given how much time people spend indoors, prioritizing fragrance-free options is a simple, high-impact step toward healthier air.
