Fragrance. Seems so benign, but what’s really behind this word? When used on labels this word legally allows companies to use any chemical (even illegal and banned chemicals) under the Trade Secret Act.
The Eco trend even has the most conscious environmentalists confused when they shop. So many products say “Natural” and list a host of benign essential oils, and yes, Rose geranium is probably benign, but… why then at the end of the list does it say “natural fragrance”? This loophole permits the use of other additives. Why might a product need other ingredients when this shampoo obviously has just listed all the organic proteins and things a hair could need? Well from the sellers point of view there are cheap ways to preserve the product (preservatives), but even worse, they try to make the scent last longer when used and thus add chemicals which are often neuro-toxins.
WHICH products use “Fragrance”? And is it possible to find products without it? YES, you can! 
- Detergents: I like 7th Generation (the idea that we think 7 generations ahead when we buy) and Planet. Many exist.
- Fabric Softener: one of the worst products. Make your own (click this link)
- Soaps
- Hair Products: Fragrance free shampoos are made by Jason and Earth Rite. However, there are hair products which use essential oils and do not use any perfumes or additives (just check the label and avoid it if it has the word fragrance)
- Cleaning Supplies: Alternatives: Vinegar/Oxyclean/Baking soda (NOT mixed together!) Make your own household cleaners! Use vinegar and water mix to spray/clean mirrors. Pour a cup of distilled white vinegar in the toilet bowl. Use baking soda or Bon Ami to scrub sinks/tubs/tile. Baking soda with lemon juice makes a bleach for stains on counters (be careful! use gloves to prevent burning your hands).
- Gardening options (instead of pesticides, instead of rodent poison): Plant marigolds which attract good bugs to eat the bad bugs. Please post your advice below! Soapy water causes bugs to suffocate because the soap doesn’t allow them to breathe through their shell. Just spray plants with a mixture of biodegradable dishwashing liquid and water.
Check out other great articles on Eco Girl Blog.
