Air fresheners and indoor sprays
Volatile organic compounds
🟠 Some signals exist (animal studies, small human studies) but results are conflicting and the scientific community is still debating them.
Share this factsheet
In brief
air fresheners: this page reviews Air fresheners and indoor sprays (Volatile organic compounds) — documented mechanism, everyday exposure situations and possible alternatives. Level of evidence: Emerging / debated.
- Where it's found
- Air fresheners, scented candles, incense, scented cleaning sprays.
- Suspected mechanism
- Emission of volatile compounds inhaled in enclosed spaces; hormonal effects are suspected for some synthetic musks.
- Suggested alternative
- Air out the room for 10 minutes a day: it's more effective than an air freshener.
- Source
- ANSES, indoor air quality.
Frequently asked questions
Air fresheners and indoor sprays: how is it linked to infertility?
Emission of volatile compounds inhaled in enclosed spaces; hormonal effects are suspected for some synthetic musks.
Where is Air fresheners and indoor sprays found in everyday life?
Air fresheners, scented candles, incense, scented cleaning sprays.
How can exposure to Air fresheners and indoor sprays be reduced?
Air out the room for 10 minutes a day: it's more effective than an air freshener.
What is the level of evidence for Air fresheners and indoor sprays?
Emerging / debated. Some signals exist (animal studies, small human studies) but results are conflicting and the scientific community is still debating them.
Map your everyday exposures in about ten minutes.
Take the questionnaireShare this factsheet
Related factors
Including a factor does not mean it causes infertility: it is simply worth monitoring, depending on its level of evidence.
Content last updated: September 14, 2026