Does Air Freshener Kill Viruses?
It is important to take steps to prevent the spread of viruses, particularly in the home where we spend much of our time.
One way that people may try to keep their homes clean and free of viruses is by using air fresheners.
But do these products actually kill viruses, or are they just meant to mask odors?
In this article, we will explore the effectiveness of air fresheners at killing viruses.
Does Air Freshener Kill Viruses?
No. air fresheners do not KILL virus. Air fresheners can only mask odors and improve the overall scent of a room, but will not kill viruses.
There have been a few studies that have investigated the antiviral properties of air fresheners. One study published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology found that certain essential oils, such as cinnamon, thyme, and tea tree oil, had antiviral activity against the influenza virus[1].
However, it is important to note that this study was conducted in a laboratory setting and it is not clear whether these oils would have the same effect in a real-world setting.
Another study published in the journal Environmental Pollution examined the antiviral properties of several air fresheners and found that some products were effective at inactivating the hepatitis A virus and the rotavirus [2].
However, the study also found that the effectiveness of air fresheners varied depending on the type and concentration of the product, as well as the type of virus being tested.
It is worth noting that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not recommend the use of air fresheners as a primary means of disinfection. The CDC recommends using EPA-approved disinfectants to kill viruses and other pathogens, as these products have been tested and proven to be effective[3].
When it comes to comparing the effectiveness of air fresheners to other disinfectants, it is important to consider the concentration of the active ingredient in the product.
Many air fresheners contain very low concentrations of antiviral or antimicrobial agents, which may not be sufficient to kill viruses. In contrast, disinfectants such as alcohol and bleach are designed to kill pathogens and are often used at much higher concentrations.
There are also a number of factors that can affect the ability of air fresheners to kill viruses, including:
The type of virus: Some viruses are more resistant to disinfectants than others. For example, the Ebola virus is more difficult to kill than the influenza virus.
The type of air freshener: As mentioned earlier, the effectiveness of air fresheners can vary depending on the type and concentration of the product.
The surface being treated: Some surfaces may be more resistant to disinfection than others. For example, porous surfaces such as wood or fabric may be more difficult to disinfect than non-porous surfaces like glass or metal.
The duration of contact: The length of time that a disinfectant is in contact with a virus can affect its ability to kill the pathogen.
Related:
