Unscented vs. Fragrance-Free: Safer Choices for Sensitive Homes

If you’ve never met someone with chemical sensitivity, you might assume “unscented” and “fragrance-free” mean the same thing—but they don’t. The difference is critical for people with allergies, asthma, or respiratory issues.

Why Scented Products Can Be Harmful

Millions of people worldwide experience severe reactions to scented products used in homes, cars, and offices. Synthetic fragrances in perfumes, air fresheners, and cleaning products often contain chemicals that can trigger asthma, allergies, and even long-term health problems.

For example, air fresheners with 1,4-dichlorobenzene (DCB) have been linked to cancer in animals and respiratory issues in humans. Many fragrance compounds are protected as “trade secrets,” limiting government oversight and safety testing.

Unscented vs. Fragrance-Free

• Unscented: The fragrance is removed, but the product may still contain synthetic chemicals or aerosol propellants.
• Fragrance-Free: No added fragrance and typically safer for sensitive individuals.

Choose Safer Alternatives

Opt for fragrance-free cleaning products, laundry detergents, and personal care items. Many eco-friendly brands now offer effective solutions without harsh chemicals or VOCs, helping you create a healthier home environment.