Question from Jan
Hi Debra.
I found your web-site recently when looking for natural alternatives for laundry. I began using ECOS natural laundry detergents and I love it. I stopped using the liquid fabric softener that I had been using. I love using as many natural products in my household as possible.
I do have a dilemma, however. I love scents! Nothing is better for me than when I step out of the shower onto my uber-soft natural bamboo bath mat and grab a fresh, clean fluffy towel and when I put it up to my face and breathe in – that it smells superb. I have been using organic essential oils on a pure organic cotton ball in my dryer – works fabulously BUT, my family’s favorite scent combinations are lavender/jasmine; lavender/vanilla; sandalwood/vanilla. Most of these essential oils are VERY expensive, however…which brings me to my question.
For laundry scenting purposes would it be acceptable to use fragrance oils rather than the organic EO’s or not? I have a sneaking suspicion that the reason we love the EO’s I’ve been using are due to their natural origin and the psychological and physiological benefits of those natural plant essences, but I wanted to hear your opinion.
Debra’s Answer
My understanding is that fragrance oils contain artificial fragrances, which themselves have all kinds of negative health effects.
If you want those good aromatherapy feelings, you’ll need to use essential oils.
